The first couple of weeks in a new job can be daunting. You might feel pressure that all eyes are on you whilst you figure out your new colleagues, office dynamics and new ways of working, and all you really want to do is impress everyone.

If this brings out beads of sweat on your brow then fear not, as we’ve spoken to Elizabeth Kuhnke, Managing Director and Founder of Kuhnke Communication, which provides one-to-one and group coaching in key areas relating to public speaking and image projection. She’s also written the international best seller Body Language for Dummies, so she knows a thing or two on how to impress people at work.

Here are her top nine tips for making a good impression during your first days of a new job:

1) Show up early. Demonstrate keenness. If there are things that need doing and that aren’t being done, offer to help.

2) Read and watch the news. Be able to discuss current events, especially those that are related to your work and your boss’s interests.

3) Embrace the company’s values and live by them.

4) Don’t be negative. No matter how good you are at your job, if you’re negative you’ll poison the rest of the environment.

5) Show willingness. No matter how much you disagree with a procedure, choice or way of doing things, unless your moral values are being compromised, do as you’re asked.

6) Listen for feelings being expressed as well as the words being said. Listening actively shows you care.

7) Avoid gossiping. If someone hears you talking about another individual, they’re going to expect you to talk about them at some point. Be discreet in all your dealings.

8) Get along with people. You don’t have to like your colleagues to get along with them.

9) Finally, have fun! Come in with a smile and a positive attitude. If you don’t enjoy what you’re doing, no one will enjoy being around you.

Make an impression