Congratulations! You have successfully secured a new job and day one is approaching. But, now what? Below is a list of things to do when starting a new role to keep you ahead of the rest!

1. Know Your Strengths

It is important to understand what strengths you have and how to utilize them. I highly recommend the book StrengthsFinder 2.0 to assist with this. If you purchase a new copy (or electronic version) of the book, you are given a code to take an online assessment that gives you an extremely detailed view of your top five strengths. Many Fortune 500 companies utilize this assessment with their employees. Figure out what your strengths are and how to leverage them early.

2. Arrive Early

Typically, it is said that you should arrive early to impress your manager but I feel it is more important to do this more for yourself. It gives you time to collect your thoughts, organize yourself, grab coffee and prepare for the workday. If you are not a morning person, try to arrive 10 minutes early at minimum and gradually increase it to a half hour or more. Small steps make large goals easier to accomplish!

3. Develop Organization Skills ASAP

Start this practice as soon as possible so when things get hectic, you’ll have the ability to effectively prioritize your time. Figure out what organizational system works for you and stick with it. Things tend to get busy during the workday, so take five minutes before its time to leave the office to clean up your desk a bit. It will make positively affect your mood the next day to return to a tidy desk, rather than a messy pile of papers.

4. Look Sharp

Figure out what the dress code is and make sure to follow the rules. Try to avoid a fashion faux pas at all cost. Observe how your manager’s and others in the position you want to have someday dress and add a few new pieces to your wardrobe.

5. Find a mentor & a sponsor

Networking is key! Get to know as many people as possible in a genuine manner. Chat with people at the water cooler and on the elevator. Set up 15-20 minute informational meetings with those in positions you hope to attain one day. Continue to build those relationships and more often than not, they will develop into mentorship and sponsorship opportunities.

6. Always Add Value

Unfortunately, you will get assigned projects you don’t necessarily care for, but it is important to remain positive. When your manager gives you a task, try to do a little more than what was asked for. Look at everything as a learning opportunity! Never say something isn’t your job. Make it your job. In fact, volunteer for the messiest project that no one wants to do, and make it great. Solve problems, help the business grow, and bring new fresh ideas.

And lastly, never stop learning. “Never be the minimum; always set the bar high.”

Kyshira Moffett

Kyshira Moffett, MBA is a career and millennial brand consultant. Her background is human resources, training and professional development. She has facilitated workshops for professional organizations such as the National Association of Black Accountants, National Black MBA Association & Ellevate Network.

Connect with Kyshira…  www.ksmcareerconsulting.com, Twitter,Instagram