Congratulations! You’re starting a new job! You feel excited – and anxious. Being in a new situation is awkward for most of us and it’s normal to feel a bit uneasy when you’re the new kid on the block…you hope you like your new employment better than your old one and although you’re thrilled to have landed your new position, you still feel nervous about learning your new functions and Oh! You want your co-workers and new boss to like you too.

It’s a given that the first few days in your new position you’re going to feel a bit like a fish out of water which can leave the even the most confidant person feeling ill at ease to some degree. But these early days are the ones where your new boss and colleagues make their most lasting impressions of you, so it’s important to make a favorable first impression.

No need to worry though; you can improve your chances of making a good first impression with these tips and comments from people who have been there.

Have a positive attitude – Nothing works better in any situation than having and expressing a positive attitude. Let you’re optimism and excitement about your new opportunity shine through to everyone you meet.

Don’t overshare – It’s easy to ramble on about yourself when you are nervous and trying to make a good impression. But incessant talking can make you seem flighty and a possible annoyance.  Instead of blurting out your whole life in one breath, let your personality blossom slowly like a flower, giving others the chance to get to know you over time, you’ll come across as far more interesting.

Ask questions – Nobody expects you to learn your job in the first day or two. Ask questions if you are don’t remember exactly what to do.  Remember that it’s better to ask how to do something…again than to complete the task the wrong way and have wasted all that time.

Establish a good attendance record – Yes, emergencies come up and traffic jams happen, but do your best to get to work on time.

Stay clear of office politics and gossip – You know from your old job that the workplace is full of rumors and gossip. Your assignment is to stay clear of it. DO NOT get involved in any office trash talk. You’ll be exposed to it soon enough so avoid it as long as possible.

Listen more than you talk – Every office operates differently so even if you had a similar job before, don’t try to be a know it all or talk about the way things were done with your old employer. This can be really hard for outgoing customer service people…but really, when you’re just starting out, it’s better to keep your ears open and your mouth shut!

Don’t stress – it takes everyone time to get up to speed at a new job. Just learn what you can each day and try to memorize your new co-workers names as soon as possible. Before long your new digs will feel as comfortable as your favorite shoes.