How to make a great first impression in four easy steps

Judgemental? Me? Never. But according to just about everyone, I make an evaluation of every person I encounter within moments of just meeting them. And the results of this shallow observation will guide part of my impression of them.

While I know I do this in my personal life, when entering a new workplace it’s concerning to think the same snap judgements are applied to me. What’s more daunting is the idea that these people are not strangers in the street but new colleagues with the potential to change your experience of, and potentially even influence, your advancement at work.

So what can you do to improve your chances of being warmly received upon your first introduction with colleagues?

The key is moderation. Try these four tips:

1. Be knowledgeable, but not know-it-all

While there is nothing worse than entering a new environment and talking out of line, understanding the basics of your new workplace and asking informed questions of your colleagues demonstrates your commitment to learning, as well as your enthusiasm to join their team. A little bit of pre-reading works wonders.

2. Act confident, not cocky

In an ideal world, nobody would judge a book by its cover. But the reality is that your appearance will often be the first point of contact with new colleagues. You don’t need to go all out with designer brands, but you do need to look like you belong and believe it.

Make your body language confident: remember to use eye contact, watch your posture and speak with conviction. Offer a firm hand shake, and remember to smile.

3. Show you’re inquisitive, but not invasive

Like it or not, first meetings inform people’s opinions. Your best bet is to keep them engaged: ask questions and ensure you actively listen to their response so you can build the conversation. Questions may be work related, or relate to a common interest. Identifying common interests early with peers is a great way to build rapport quickly and assimilate into your new workplace.

4. Act natural, not out-with-your-mates

I know this sounds contradictory, but just being you is key critical to a successful first impression. It’s likely that on top of your impressive resume and work experience, you were hired because you could work well with the existing team. So be the best version of yourself on the first encounter, and then make a judgement call on how casually to take your relationships with individual colleagues.

This article first appeared at Women’s Agenda.