>> Easy Ways To Settle Into Your New Job

Short listed for the interview.
Aced it.
Got the job.
Here comes the tricky part.

Settling in.

First impressions are lasting impressions. Clichéd nonetheless true. The importance of putting your best foot forward can never be underestimated, especially for a newcomer in an organization. As a newcomer, it takes time to lose one's 'outsider' status and become a part of the inner core.

However, by bearing in mind certain small, sometimes forgotten, techniques, the transition can take place quicker. Here's how:

* Be positive: Smile. Be enthusiastic. Positive people send out good vibes and bring out the best in those around them. A positive attitude will not only show your confidence but will also impress your colleagues.

* Dress the part: People will take you seriously if you look professional. The way you groom yourself can be seen as a reflection of your work style. Being well groomed can be seen as being capable and efficient while a shabby, unkempt appearance can mean just the opposite. Such correlates will disappear once the initial period is over and you have proved yourself.

* Talk less listen more: Nobody likes a "know-it-all". Instead listen….no…REALLY LISTEN! Being a good listener helps you learn and absorb faster. Moreover, real listening will let you know where you need to make changes, whether in your work style or even in yourself.

* Get acquainted: Mingle with your co-workers. Remember them by name. Be polite and friendly with everyone around you from the mailroom clerk to the boss. Maintain eye contact and remember-Smile!

* Ask Questions: Even simple ones like "Where's the bathroom?" to more work related doubts like "Which application do I use?" It's ok to ask for help. You're not expected to know everything your first day on the job. Besides, it's always better to learn the right way of doing things first, rather than try something yourself only to realize you have to do it all over again.

* Stick your hand up!: Don't sit around and wait for work to come to you. Be proactive and ask for something to do. In the initial days, you will be given smaller tasks to carry out. Once these are done and you feel capable of taking on larger work loads, take the initiative and ask for more assignments. It doesn't hurt to volunteer for tasks you don't know how to execute. Your colleagues will appreciate your effort and willingness to learn.

* Time yourself: Coming into work late and leaving early will surely earn yourself a bad reputation. Make sure you leave early enough in the morning's to give yourself sufficient time to travel. Experts even suggest coming in early and leaving a little after normal office hours, especially during the first few weeks of work. It shows your flexibility and dedication to the job. Avoid taking too many days off and keep up a good attendance record.

* Say 'Thank you': Everybody wants to know that the work they are doing is being appreciated. Show them just that. And be genuine about it. Take time to tell your co-workers who helped you out on your first days how much you appreciate their help.

* Get organized: Develop a system to keep track of all assignments, meetings, projects and alike. Keep yourself on top of your work at all times. Make deadlines for yourself if you're the type to "keep it for later". Use an organizer or a checklist or stick post-its to remind yourself of all that needs to be done. Set weekly goals for yourself and achieve them.

* Watch out for the grapevine: Rumors and gossip are a part of every workplace. Make sure you don't contribute to it. Don't believe everything you hear. Make your own judgments about people based on YOUR interactions with them. Keep away from the office gossip lest you wish to be associated with them. It is human nature to participate in office politics at some point or the other but stay away from it as much as possible, especially for the first few months.

Lastly, just make the most of it! The challenges are as many as the rewards. As a newcomer you're bound to make mistakes. Don't be afraid to make them. Just be sure to pick up the pieces and make good at the end of the day.