TRP, How Do I Make a Good First Impression at New Workplace?

fnordsnord · 2014-11-29T23:58:54+00:00

Okay, I used to manage an IT show about that size.

1) Be the fuck on time. Really. It's important.

2) Carry a pen. You're going to have to sign shit. Needing to borrow a pen shows that you haven't thought this through.

3) Don't make any suggestions for a week - just absorb how things are done at the new shop.

4) I don't care how big your dick is, or how red pill you are: your boss gets to be the alpha of this pack. Do not try to AMOG your manager. It will not end well.

aggressivejoe · 2014-11-29T23:57:05+00:00

Be friendly and confident. Dress nicely.

tyranus89 · 2014-11-30T00:32:00+00:00

What impression are you trying to set? I'm curious as to why you chose r/askTRP to pose this question.

One thing: you shouldn't care about trying to impress the women who work there, because you should never get into any sort of sexual or romantic relationship with a co-worker, especially in today's sexual-harassment-in-the-workplace and false-rape-accusation society.

That done with, the other reason to pose that question here would be to appear dominant and alpha.

Read The 48 Laws of Power.

General advice, though:

Dress just a little better than the norm for your workplace. Most computer/IT/tech workplaces are pretty casual, so if guys are wearing t-shirts and jeans, wear button-down shirts and chinos/well-fitting dark jeans, wear stylish sneakers or oxfords instead of running shoes, etc. Don't dress too well (ex. a suit) because you'll seem too try-hard and will outshine your bosses (violating Power Law #1).

Always maintain eye contact.

Shake hands with a firm, but not deadly grip.

Don't look down when walking.

Stand and sit straight with good posture.

Don't smile too much. A lot of people try to be way too approachable on their first day. ("Hi, I'm Jeff! Omg soo awesome to be here. Love your shirt. This office is so cool. I'm so excited! :D") This is supplicating and submissive. Unless you constantly have a scowl on your face, people will think you're alright.

Remember people's names -- try to say their name 3 times within the first couple minutes of meeting them ("Nice to meet you, James." "So you were the lead on x project, James?" "Thanks for your help James.") If you don't have this opportunity, say it to yourself under your breath 5-6 times quickly while looking at or visualizing their face.

Don't cut anyone off -- wait 2 seconds until they are done before you respond.

Don't speak too quickly, like you're a kid jacked on caffeine.

Pronounce your words with a pace that's precise and intention.

Try not to ask too many questions -- try solving any issues on your own for five minutes. Then, you can ask someone and admit you tried on your own, but couldn't get it. This shows initiative and independence.

Computer/IT/tech guys are typically pretty beta. You should be fine. But, don't try to out-alpha the alphas -- you're the new guy proving yourself, and can't afford to make enemies before you have friends.

i_hear_colors · 2014-11-30T02:20:27+00:00

Bring donuts and other sugary snacks often. Watch everyone get fat while they are impressed/intimidated by the gains you are making in the gym.

mister_barfly75 · 2014-12-01T13:53:22+00:00

Keep your mouth shut and listen. That doesn't mean be unapproachable, just don't set your lips flapping if someone asks you a question. Too much talking will come across as nervousness and if your mouth is running faster than your brain you're likely to say something dumb.

Listen. Learn. Not just about your job, but the dynamics of the office too.

Firm handshake when you're introduced to people. Learn their names. Write them down if you need the reminder.

Be punctual.

Dress well.

Shower.

Walk tall when walking around the office. Head up. Maintain eye contact.

Make notes.

Title	TRP, How Do I Make a Good First Impression at New Workplace?
Author	MetalliMunk
Upvotes	7
Comments	8
Date	November 29, 2014 11:19 PM UTC (11 years ago)
Subreddit	Posted in /r/askTRP
Original Link	https://old.reddit.com/r/asktrp/comments/2nsp43/trp_how_do_i_make_a_good_first_impression_at_new/
Archive Link	https://theredarchive.com/r/askTRP/trp-how-do-i-make-a-good-first-impression-at-new.144047 https://theredarchive.com/post/144047

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