What NOT to do when you start a new job -

What NOT to do when you start a new job - Youre starting a new job. How can you avoid getting off on the wrong foot? Avoid the following and youll be more likely to have a job next week. Dont wear an outfit if you have to check with your friends first to see if it will be okay.  Hopefully, you have a good idea of the office dress code. However, some workplaces support very casual attire, and you may be tempted to sport something that is a little too casual. If youre tempted to call a friend to ask if he or she thinks you can get away with wearing your new tank top or your perfectly torn jeans, think again. It doesnt hurt to dress up a little when you start your new job. Plan everything in advance, as you would for an interview, so you will be comfortable and suitably attired from the start. Dont be late.  Perhaps there is a lot of traffic, but there are no excuses for being late your first week. If you have to arrange to be early (even very early) to ensure getting there on time, do it. Do not put yourself in a position of offering excuses for being late on the first day because you didnt understand the traffic patterns. The early bird gets the worm isnt just a trite cliche; its a reminder that when you appear prepared and ready, youll put yourself in a position to succeed. Dont flub your introductions.  Think beyond My name is Be sure you can explain who you are and what you do! What do you want them to remember about you? What do you want to be known for? Be sure to work on your eye contact, a pleasant smile and a firm handshake. All of this will contribute to the first impression that your colleagues have of you. Dont forget your colleagues names.  Dont be the one who tells everyone youre not good with names. Maybe you really arent good with names. However, your job is to become better at it before you embarrass yourself and forget your boss name. A few tips: Use peoples names as soon as they are introduced. Say, Nice to meet you, Sara. If you didnt catch the name, or are unsure of the pronunciation, ask the person to repeat his or her name, and make a real effort to learn it. Take notes so youll remember people later. For example, jot down something to help you match a new colleagues name and face. Another trick? Make an association with the persons name. If Tom is tall, think, Tall Tom and youre more likely to remember it later. Get my free white paper:  5 Mistakes Preventing You From Landing a Job This Week   Dont be a slob.  If your co-workers start to question their choice in hiring you the minute you dump your things all over your desk, beware! Look around to see how other people organize their areas. If no one else has personal items or photos out, consider keeping your area clear of those types of things. Dont leave your food out or extend your personal items into anyone elses space. Dont make a big decision without asking a question.  If youre of the mind that its better to ask forgiveness than permission, think again. When youre new at a job, ask before you do anything significant for the first time. Dont make executive decisions that otherwise wouldnt be your call. Keep your questions to things that you are curious about and try to save the Why do you do it that way instead of this other way? types of inquiries for later on. Dont eat the pudding from the refrigerator.  You know how possessive people can be about their food! Do not take anything that doesnt belong to you, or you could risk wrath that might impede your career path. Avoid loud phone conversations.  In the open workspaces so common today, its virtually impossible to avoid overhearing colleagues personal phone conversations. If at all possible, stick to texting when absolutely necessary to connect with your friends outside of work. Do not be the loud talker everyone cant stand to have in the office. Dont bolt at the end of the day.  Especially when you start a new job, dont be a clock watcher. It cant hurt to stay a little beyond your designated hours so that everyone sees that youre more interested in getting the job done and less interested in running for the door. Appeared on AOLJobs.com.