Advice for a Lasting Good Impression

Starting a new job or internship can be nerve wrecking. Often it can make you so nervous that you forget what you should be doing to make a good impression that lasts. As a junior at Purdue who has had various internship, work, and leadership opportunities inside and outside of the university, I have composed 4 pieces of advice for making a great impression.

1. Punctuality

Being on time is the most important thing to do when starting any job or internship because it shows that you take your new position seriously. Being unable to arrive on time to work will always give the wrong impression, such as, lacking discipline, having little commitment to your new position, and being irresponsible.

2. Take Notes

Some may argue that taking notes while a superior is talking to you can give the impression that you are paying little attention. However, a previous employer assured me that, that is not the case. Taking notes while a superior is giving instructions or delegating tasks is exactly what you want to do because it shows that you are organized. Further, relying solely on your memory when given many tasks to accomplish at once is not a smart move to make because, in this situation, it is easy for assignments to slip your mind. Writing things down ensures that you will not forget anything and that every task assigned to you will be accomplished in a timely manner.

3. Be the First to Arrive and the Last to Leave

This piece of advice, which I believe is one of the best pieces of advice for young professionals, goes hand in hand with being punctual, and it actually comes from my parents. So, what exactly does it mean? How early and how late should you arrive or stay? The answer to these questions is…It is completely up to you. In my opinion, you should arrive early enough that by the time you officially start work you are ready to start working or are already working. As opposed to just beginning to get your materials prepared and start your work later. Further, being the last to leave, to me, means that if you are supposed to get off work by 4, you don’t prepare to leave the office at 3:30 but rather prepare to leave the office after 4. While this may add some time to your workload that will not be compensated with money, it will be compensated with praise and respect. In fewer words, develop an exceptional work ethic.

4. Always Present Your Best Work

Presenting your best work at all times, even if you are just sending a quick email, demonstrates that you are a true professional. No task is less deserving of your time no matter the level of difficulty or skill, because they are all representative of your abilities. Think of every single assignment as an opportunity to show off your best skills.

As I have mention, I gathered this advice from my personal career and educational experiences. I hope it will be helpful to you in the near future to establish a great, professional impression wherever you go.