Fitting in on Your First Day at Work

The first day at your new job has come and the typical High School attitude takes over the office, people start whispering and discreetly stare at you. That isn't literally the case all the time, but it can sure feel that way.

But don't stress, there are some tricks that you can apply to make your first day at work become a "smooth sailing" experience, and make it easier for you to fit in. All you'll need is some self confidence and a non threatening upbeat attitude.

Begin by picking your outfit cautiously, this is your first day and first impressions matter more than anything. Your attire is a big part of the image you want to project to others, so it is best if you dress on the safe side until people get to know you better and you get an idea of how the workplace vibe is.

Don't be late on your first day at work and don't show up before the office has opened either. You want others to know that you are responsible and on time without showing up your new colleagues by getting there too early.

Your co-workers will most likely approach you and ask questions about you, so be ready to answer question like "where are you from?", "who are you?" or "what is your job here?" To make sure that you come across as a confident person, plan your answers ahead so you don't stutter and sound lost when talking about yourself.

Be pleasant, approachable and respectful to everyone, it is good to display good manner because this is how people will remember you. Besides, you won't know who is who and you don't want to get on anyone's bad side.

Listen to others instead of talking their ear out. The one thing people in the workplace like more than interrogating, is telling the newbie about them who they are. It's like a status thing. They've been there longer so they feel more power, in a sense.

Make sure to make a mental note to remember people's names, you will make them feel important and impress them at the same time.

If you see employees that don't approach you for any reason, approach them and introduce yourself. Some people lack people skills and if you take the initiative you'll definitely make a positive lasting impression, plus you will make yourself come across as competent and friendly.

Lunchtime is again like going back to school, you're the new kid on the block so either ask someone you clicked with to have lunch with you, or bring something to keep you busy if you're planning to stay in your office or cubicle to eat lunch.

Display you team-player qualities by offering to help. This will show your boss and coworkers that you are open to work in a team environment, but don't confuse offering your help with sucking up. People can see through it won't win you any friends amongst your coworkers and you might even annoy your boss.

When the time to clock-out or to leave arrives, don't leave in a rush because you will contradict your attitude with your actions. Leave when you see that everyone is leaving and if possible chat with someone on your way out.

The next day will only get better, and you will feel more comfortable because you did all the right things to fit in, in the workplace, and you made a good first impression. Congratulations on landing the job!