How To Fit in on Your First Day Of Work

Show up on time, but not too early—you want to appear conscientious and responsible, but you don’t want to show up your new colleagues.

Be prepared to answer questions about who you are, where you’re from, and what you’re doing there. Rehearse your spiel ahead of time in order to come across as confident but not arrogant.

Do more listening than talking. The only thing people enjoy more than interrogating the newbie is talking about themselves.

Introduce yourself to others. It’s one of the easiest ways to come across as friendly and competent.

Be prepared to either bite the bullet and ask someone to have lunch with you, or bring a book or work to occupy yourself if you plan to sit and eat alone.

Offer to help. It immediately shows bosses and subordinates alike that you are a team player.

Don’t suck up. Bosses can see right through it, and it won’t win you any points with your new colleagues.

Don’t rush out the door at 5:00, or you’ll negate any goodwill you established during the day.