Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority

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Office Etiquette: Making a Good Impression on Your New Boss

18 Mar 2013 By: Diane Gottsman

If you’ve accepted a new position or are expecting changes in management that will leave you reporting to someone new, there are definite do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.  First, consider this a wonderful opportunity to set yourself up for a positive relationship with your new boss.  Though we’ve all heard, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” before, it rings especially true in the workplace. Putting your energy towards making a good impression and then cementing those positive habits into your daily routine will benefit your career path and overall satisfaction level.  Keep reading for my tips…

Do focus on punctuality.  Arriving late to your first meeting with your new boss is a surefire way to sour your first impression.  This tip is top of the list because no matter how prepared you are, showing up even just a few minutes late is a definite “no.”  Continue to arrive a few minutes early to work, meetings, client lunches and appointments…this is one habit you’ll want to cement into your routine.

Don’t assume he or she will know or appreciate your history with the company.  If you’ve gotten “comfortable” in the office, now is not the time.  Even if you’ve been there 15 years and your last boss turned a blind eye to your extended lunches or leaving a few minutes early to beat the traffic, it’s time to button up.  Reframe your mentality and put in the extra time and effort to shine.

Do keep an open mind to changes he or she may implement.  Part of being a professional is staying positive and flexible; if she suggests a new way of doing something, approach it with a glass half-full mentality.

Don’t be afraid to suggest a new initiative.  Perhaps there’s something you’ve always wanted to spearhead in the office but your last boss wasn’t interested…now is your time to open that conversation. You may be pleasantly surprised at his or her reaction.

Do set an example for your coworkers.  Whether you’re a young professional or a seasoned businesswoman, your attitude and actions influence those around you.  Sometimes all it takes is one cheerful and approachable person to brighten up the company culture.  Let that person be YOU!

Lastly, know that your efforts will not go unnoticed.  This is true when dealing with a new boss as well as in your everyday life.

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Diane Gottsman

Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert and modern manners professional, sought out industry leader, television personality, accomplished speaker, Huffington Post blogger, author, and the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in executive leadership and etiquette training. Diane is routinely quoted in national and international media including The New York Times, The BBC, CNN, Bloomberg Business Week, Kiplinger, Huffington Post Canada, U.S. News and World Report, and Forbes. She is the resident etiquette expert for two popular morning talk shows, SA Living and Good Day Austin. She has been seen on The TODAY Show, HLN Headline News, WGN Chicago, and CBS Sunday Morning. Her clients range from university students to Fortune 500 companies and her workshops cover topics ranging from tattoos in the workplace to technology at the dinner table and the proper use of social media.