How to apply for a new job – 4 easy tips
Taking the time to plan an appropriate and confident personal presentation can help you impress management, warm up to your new colleagues and form lasting friendships.
Here’s how to introduce yourself at a new job and some additional steps you can take to ensure a smooth transition.
1. Perfect an introductory speech about yourself before your first day
The night before your first day, take a minute to think about how you would like to appear and how this will affect the way you present yourself to your new colleagues. Take a cue from the environment in which you will be transitioning – are they more relaxed or more formal?
Tailor your approach to suit the company’s style, remembering to include your name, job title and where you previously worked.
You may also be asked to provide basic information about your career and share your hobbies or interests, so prepare some examples!
2. Get an organizational chart early
Many companies offer organizational charts along with your welcome reading. Make sure you have a copy handy, so you can easily link names to faces and can locate where each team is located within the office.
If you did not receive one, try requesting a copy.
3. Request a presentation of the equipment
Found yourself alone at the desk without a proper presentation?
Don’t worry, you can ask for one: take a quiet minute with your manager and ask to be properly introduced to the team.
Whenever possible, it’s best to meet each colleague, one by one. This eliminates any future awkwardness and gives you a chance to repeatedly practice introducing yourself to a new team.
4. Extend your introductions to other teams
You will work with other teams and employees at some point during your tenure, so get things right from the start by making an effort to get to know everyone.
You can ask to be formally introduced to the various teams related to your role or take it upon yourself to make introductions.
It’s also a good idea to be friendly and approachable with everyone you meet-you never know who you’ll be talking to!
Additional tips on how to introduce yourself
Don’t be afraid to ask for names
You’ll have enough to remember on your first day without having to go around worrying about people’s names as well. If someone’s name slipped your mind, don’t be afraid to ask them again.
Shake hands and use open body language
Your body language says a lot about your character and how you feel at any given moment. The same is true of meeting people for the first time.
Avoid crossing your arms or putting your hands on your hips and opt for a friendly handshake and a little eye contact to show that you are receptive and approachable.
It’s okay to feel a little nervous about starting a new job, but if you follow the right steps in the first few days, the remaining days will be walks in the park.