So you’ve accepted that job offer and are ready to start work: nervous? Well here are a few tips to help you settle in to you new job and make a good first impression.

If in Doubt, Dress Smart
You should have been told how to dress at your place of work when you went for interview, got an idea if you were shown around or know from the type of work it is. If not, try to remember to ask when offered the job or call ahead if you forget. In the event that you find yourself waking up on your first day unaware of what to wear, always dress smart – especially if it is an office-based job. You may find you can come in wearing casual clothes, but it would create a bad impression if you wore jeans and a T-shirt to a suit and tie office!

Introduce Yourself to Everyone
When you first step into a place of work, you will undoubtedly be shown around and introduced to everyone. Make sure you smile and shake hands with everyone – even if a few of the employees seem a bit reluctant. They may be shy or just not in the habit of doing so, but it is an excellent way of breaking the ice and you are more likely to be remembered. If there is no welcoming tour, try to ensure you introduce yourself to as many faces as possible. An extra tip is to give a firm, but not too firm, handshake. There is nothing more unwelcoming than a limp handshake!

Be Attentive
As you are given those first details of your new role, listen closely and try to offer a few words on any instructions to indicate you understand what you are being told. Do not be afraid to write things down or ask for clarification where anything seems confusing. It will take a while to acclimatise to any job so use your first week to ensure you get things done correctly in your own time. You’ll pick it all up before you know it!

Ask Questions
It is inevitable that you are going to have questions about your role – and expected. An employer recruiting a recent graduate will know that you may not have worked in the industry before – that is why there are so many training schemes! But even if you have, never be afraid to ask if you need help, to have something clarified or if you just aren’t sure. It shows you are thinking about your role and can very often impress your boss as he or she may not even know the answer. Never suffer in silence as it will only cause you more problems in the long run.

Welcome/After Work Activities
It is important to settle into any business you join: taking part in its social side can be a vital way to get to know everyone better and feel more like part of the team. One of the most popular ways to induct a new employee is treating them to welcome drinks at the local work pub, or perhaps even a meal. If you get invited to such an event, it is an excellent opportunity to get to know some of the people you may not have day-to-day contact. Similarly, if there are any regular after work activities such as cinema trips, a book club or even Friday night pub visits, they can also make you feel more at home and find you a few new friends – just the same as the intention of social activities at university!