Here at College Lifestyles, we strive to encourage young women to pursue their goals and ambitions. With Summer just around the corner, many of you are gearing up for new internships and jobs. Here is our list for Do’s and Don’ts for your first week to make a lasting impression!
Do’s-
Dress Like a Pro
It’s important to make a killer first impression at a new job. Make sure you have the perfect outfit that reflects your personality, but represents the company culture as well. It’s better to overdress than underdress on your first day, before you can gauge the standard office attire. If you work in a professional setting, opt for heels instead of flats, nothing too low cut, and make sure your skirts are not shorter than your finger tips when you put your arms down. Dress to impress, don’t be a mess.
Stay Positive
Another aspect to making a great first impression is approachability. You don’t want to be known as the new girl with the poor attitude. During your first week, you’ll have a lot of questions.If you establish a rapport with your colleagues, they’ll be more than willing to help you get comfortable. In turn, let them know you’re available to help them if they ever need it. Your co-workers will definitely appreciate your friendliness.
Be Modest
Obviously, you were best for the job- that’s why you were hired! A true professional doesn’t need to brag about her accomplishments, so be gracious and thank your boss(es) for the opportunity they’ve given you. Show your bosses and co-workers how awesome you are by proving it with your work ethic, not your words.
Remember Names
Try to make a conscious effort to remember names and address your co-workers using their name. This reflects that you are a team players that will work well with others and it comes across very professional. People admire the extra effort!
Kendall and Kylie hard at work as West Coast Fashion Contributors at Seventeen! Courtesy of KendallandKylie.celebuzz.com
Don’ts-
Ask TOO Many Questions
Of course, asking questions is expected and encouraged, but be wary of asking too many. Most curiosities about how the company works can be answered by observing how the employees act and what they do. Avoid bothering co-workers with questions you can figure out yourself.
Abuse Company Property
Don’t have personal conversations on the company phone. If you need to take a call, privately excuse yourself and take it on your cell phone. If you have a computer, checking emails is a no-brainer but never use your computer to catch up on the latest episode of Pretty Little Liars. This is extremely frowned upon and can put you on the fast-track to unemployment.
Gossip
We all love chatting with colleagues and establishing work relationships, but be sure to avoid being known as the “office gossip.” Talking about ex-boyfriends or complaining about your boss should be saved for after-work drinks, not the work place.
Leave Early/Take Long Lunches
You’re the newbie. You have to pay your dues and achieve a reputation of having a great work ethic. Enjoy your lunch break and take advantage of the time given to you, but be prompt in getting back to your job on time. Taking long lunches comes across as lazy and unpolished. Don’t leave to go home early, either. In fact, staying a little late makes a great impression- it proves you are dedicated to your new job!
Smoking in the office is a definite no-no! Courtesy of AMC
Follow these basic instructions during your first week at a new internship or job and you’ll shoot straight to the top! Looking for an internship or job to practice these new skills in the future? Check out the College Lifestyles Job Bank and post your resume!
Chelse Hensley is a news junkie and magazine fanatic who is obsessed with living life to the fullest. She dreams of a day when she can watch TV and get paid to write about it. Her motto: What Would Rachel Berry Do?
