The document provides recommendations for making a positive first impression during a new job or internship. It advises that all actions and commitments will be evaluated, so it is important to follow through on commitments, cultivate positive relationships with coworkers and staff, learn unwritten conduct rules, seek feedback, and remain positive and enthusiastic. Making the boss look good and not surprising them are also emphasized.

1. Creating a Positive First Impression on the New Job
Many of you will soon be starting a full-time job or internship in a new company or in a
new department in the same company. Through my experience in corporations, I have
seen new employees begin in a very positive way and a few that began by making a
damaging mistake. These recommendations are offered to help you to a positive
transition on the new job.
Actions......Every thing you do--from the work you perform to your interactions with
people on the job and at social events--will be evaluated.
Commitments......Follow through on all commitments you make--from projects to casual
meetings with people. If you say you will call on Monday, do it! Failing to do so will
raise questions about your reliability.
Relationships......Cultivate positive relationships with as many people as possible--
including those in other departments, as well as customers, suppliers and outside
contacts.
Administrative Staff......Never underestimate the value of the administrative staff
assistant--a positive relationship can produce some extra efforts for you.
Conduct Rules......Learn the written and unwritten rules of conduct in the office.
Expectations......Get to know what is expected form you and how you can exceed
expectations.
Feedback......Seek regular performance feedback from your manager and customers, if
appropriate.
Respect......Respect the opinions of others, even when you completely disagree.
Win People Over......Realize that some people in your company will not be positive to
your lack of experience and may not be helpful to you--your success will depend on
earning their respect.
Attitude......Remain enthusiastic and positive throughout the bad times. The ‘can do’
attitude impresses management and many co-workers.
In-basket......Do not let your in-basket get empty. Volunteer for committees or projects to
devote your enthusiasm and broaden your learning (with your boss’s approval).
Training......Take advantage of special training for professional development.

2. Suggest, Don’t Criticize......Don’t be critical of anyone, any idea or company policy in
front of another employee--be the person who makes recommendations for
improvements.
The Boss......Follow these two very important rules: a) don’t surprise the boss; and b)
always make the boss look good (both will be beneficial to you in the long-run).
Lee Junkans, Director-Career Development Center