FIVE WAYS TO MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION
WHETHER you’re starting a graduate trainee programme, or embarking on that junior role, settling into the culture of your office is a tricky manoeuvre to master.
MIND YOUR (BODY) LANGUAGE~
First impressions count, and with the average person making up their mind about you within seconds, it’s important to make a good start. When communicating, body language is just as important as the words you are saying, so make sure you maintain eye contact and avoid closed body language such as crossed arms.
DON’T FORCE THE BANTER
When starting out, unless you’re lucky and got a hook-up of some sort, you won’t know anybody in the office. When you’re not particularly close to a colleague, any sort of mockery/teasing/repartee could be misconstrued.
LEARN HOW TO MANAGE YOUR TIME
Time management can be one of the most difficult things to master so it’s important to have systems in place to help you cope before you end up drowning in a sea of deadlines. Keep on top of things or eventually, office patience will wear thin.
STAY PROFESSIONAL
When arriving in your new role, it’s important to bear in mind that there will be a variety of personalities, and you may be walking into a very difficult phase in people’s relationships. You will not know which dramas you’re about to walk into, but avoid getting involved in any gossiping or giving your opinions on co-workers.
DON’T GIVE UP
You’ve made the cut, and the office job is a reality. Your employer must have liked you, so make sure you stay positive and get stuck in.