It is vital to understand the importance of starting off on the right foot in a new job from day one.  It is absolutely true that first impressions are extremely influential in relationships.  A candidate’s early performance in his or her new job has a large impact on both the employer and the employee.

Fundamental guidelines for achieving success in a new job:

• “Work hard, play hard.”  Hard work yields greater success.  There is no substitute or short cut for achieving success in any new job.  The only sure-fire way up the ladder of success is to be responsible and willing to go above and beyond what is expected of you.  Don’t just stick to the 9 – 5 time slot of work if you are looking to advance quickly.

• Being punctual will exhibit the good discipline you talked about in your interview.  It is always good to arrive a little early to the work place, as this will help put you in a calm state of mind before starting the day’s work.  This also shows your level of dedication to the company.

• It is also good to show interest in the job. If you are not yet fully familiar with your duties be sure to ask for information or guidance from your colleagues or even the boss herself.  If you are succeeding, everyone is succeeding!

• Keeping your workspace clean and uncluttered will show how organized you are.  It will also increase your productivity if you can quickly locate necessary items. Organizing your desk can be accomplished by staying just a few minutes after work.  You can list down the actions to be carried the next day, put important files within reach or obtain the necessary supplies without the fear of forgetting things or mixing them in with the work you are trying to accomplish during the work day.

Success in a new job is not achieved in just one day, but you should begin working towards success from day one.

• It is extremely important not to indulge in office politics or gossip.  A successful person will show a professional interest in his or her colleagues, not engage in tearing them down.  Doing so only looks petty on your part and does not help advance your career; it will earn you a reputation of being someone no one wants to work with.  Instead you should observe and listen to others so you can learn the job properly and effectively.  These skills are seen in successful people in their jobs.

• It is always good to respect the hierarchy or chain of command.  Everyone has to report to some one other than themself.  Get to know the people above, around and below you.  Remember to treat everyone with respect.

• Be sure you are familiar with the organization’s mission, objectives and goals.  This will help ensure you are on the same page with the company’s needs and are being as productive as possible.

Adapting quickly to your new job is very important to both you and your boss.  You can always reach out to your supervisor and colleagues to make sure you are headed in the right direction.  Your boss would rather that you ask if you are unsure about something so you can get it done correctly the first time.  The company’s dress code should be followed at all times.  If you are ever in doubt, dress on the more conservative and professional side.  Dress for the job you want, not the job you have!  Find out how business is normally conducted.   Is it more formal or informal?  Learning about office culture in general will help you be able to acclimate more quickly.  For instance, do they have a casual dress day?  Do they have formal or informal office functions for employees to get to know one another?  Do they promote family/home life?  With a little bit of common sense and the urge to succeed and by following the above guidelines you are well on your way to achieving success in your new job.  Congratulations!