The column

You wowed them with your CV, you impressed them at interview. Now you have to get through that first week and make the right impression.

1 Be punctual. Try to be 10-15 minutes early. If you are in doubt about your route, do a dry run.

2 Dress for your environment. If you didn't suss out the office dress code at your interview, wear a suit. It's always better to go smart if you are in any doubt.

3 Show willing and ask questions. Extra responsibilities and respect are rewards for those who can complete menial tasks with minimum fuss before moving on to bigger things. Colleagues would rather be asked questions than let you complete a task incorrectly. But remember to write the answer down so you don't have to ask again. Be prepared to work extra hours and don't leave early at the end of the day.

4 Plan your day. Write a list of the tasks you need to perform. This will help you to be more productive, ensure you meet deadlines and keep you calm. If you make it clear you are working towards pre-set goals, people will help you. You may not have enough to do in the first week. This won't last, so enjoy the lack of pressure and keep everyone stocked up with plenty of cups of tea. This is a good way to get to know people.

5 Get on with colleagues. Concentrate on your job, rather than making friends. Be pleasant but not over- familiar — you can't expect to be part of the furniture straight away.

Office politics are a fact of life in most workplaces, but make sure you have heard all the facts before you get embroiled. Try not to whinge if things are going wrong and overcome setbacks with a positive outlook. Try to keep your first evening free for an after-work drink. It's the best way of breaking the ice.

6 Show initiative. A fresh pair of eyes may see ways of improving things that have been overlooked. Bring your ideas into the company with confidence — don't be intimidated because you are new.

7 Observe company protocol. Stick to the rules, especially on smoking. If you smoke, ask an approachable colleague where and when you can have a cigarette.

8 Don't worry about mistakes. You will probably make mistakes at the start. Don't get upset about this — there would be little point in taking a job that you can do perfectly on your first day.