How to make an impact in your new job

How to make an impact in your new job

Starting a new job? Ernie Richardson explains how you can hit the ground running

Starting a new job is always a challenge. You have to get used to a new set of relationships, find your way around a new office and learn a whole array of new tasks.

Just to add to the pressure, you’ll probably be eager to make a strong impression on your new colleagues. You’ll want them to think you know what you’re doing, to trust your judgment and, if you’re the boss, respect you from the get go.

So here are five things to help you settle into a new role.

1) Take your time

We know how it is. You’re starting a new role and want to have an instant impact. It’s tempting to rush in and make changes, to offer your strong opinions right from the start.

But the experts at Just Recruitment Group Ltd advise taking your time before ringing the changes.

“Get to know the systems already in place,” says the company’s founder and director Jenny Wrightson. “Things are usually done a certain way for a very good reason, and you won’t make any friends by criticising them without fully understanding that hinterland.

“Over time, you’ll certainly be in a position to suggest improvements and to make your presence felt. But for the first month or so, just watch, learn and ponder. There’s plenty of time to influence how things are done once you’re settled into your new role.”

"One sure-fire way of building rapport with your new colleagues is to seek their advice."  

2) Build relationships

It can be hard to build trust with a new team, so you need to work on establishing strong relationships with colleagues.

Take time to get to know them, ask them about themselves and show an interest in their lives. That will help you establish a rapport, meaning they’re more likely to trust your judgment.

A box of doughnuts in the staff kitchen can go a long way to helping you build good relationships with new colleagues. But don’t go overboard. If you seem too eager, you may find it alienates people who think you’re too keen to impress.

3) Ask advice

One sure-fire way of building rapport with your new colleagues is to seek their advice, says Mrs Wrightson.

“Everyone likes to feel as if their opinions matter, as if they have expertise to share. Make a point of asking colleagues for their advice and opinions, even if it’s only in response to simple questions that will help you settle in. If people feel like you value their advice, they’re more likely to let you in. And that’s when you can start working effectively together.”

How to make an impact in your new job4) Steady the ship

Whether you’re the first person to hold your new role, or you’ve taken over from someone else, it’s likely there will be a bit of an unsettled atmosphere among colleagues.

Any change in personnel wrongfoots people in the workplace – people get used to things being a certain way, and a new face takes some getting used to. For that reason, it’s worth reassuring people and taking time to find out about the history of your role. If there are wounds that need healing, you’ll need to tread carefully.

Equally, if people see your appointment as an opportunity for a bright new dawn, you’ll need to manage expectations.

5) Remember that little things make a big difference

What you wear, how you set up your office, the sincerity with which you speak to colleagues: when you start a new job, everything is scrutinised by those around you.

While it’s important not to overthink how you come across, it’s worth being mindful that people will make judgments on the basis of the initial impression you create.

“It’s back to the bringing doughnuts idea,” concludes Jenny Wrightson. “Turn up with a box of treats, a warm smile and an openness to the people around you and you’ll find it much easier to settle in.

“But the main advice is to be yourself. People spot insincerity a mile away. Show them what they’re getting from the outset and you should enjoy a smooth entry into your new working environment.”

 

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Published: 16 April 2025
© Copyright Just Recruitment Group Ltd 2025

Jobs currently available

Bench Joiner
Sector: Property and Construction
Salary: Competitive
Location: Colchester
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913700
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing organisation, based on the outskirts of Colchester, to recruit a Bench Joiner to join their highly skilled and established team.

You will be working on a variety of bespoke projects — the key purpose of this role is to manage your day-to-day duties, including carpentry using hand and power tools, framing and finish carpentry. This is a team role, working collaboratively across the wider business, to create exceptional joinery pieces.

Key requirements for this role:

  • Own set of tools is a must!
  • Experience in a similar role
  • 3D/2D design experience
  • Joinery background
  • High level of attention to detail
  • Effective analytical skills
  • Systematic approach to tasks

Working hours for this role are Monday to Friday. 07.30 to 16.30.

Over time is available.

Free on-site parking is available, along with a great working environment, opportunities for career progression, and the chance to work with new, automated processes and equipment — full training provided.

This role offers a really competitive package.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
CAD Designer
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Location: Colchester
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913701
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a successful and growing company based on the outskirts of Colchester, to recruit a CAD Designer to join their experienced and talented team.

In this role, you’ll be at the heart of the design process – creating detailed technical drawings for bespoke joinery projects, including cabinetry, furniture, and architectural woodwork. You'll work closely with the internal team to bring custom designs to life, ensuring every piece meets exact client specifications and supports seamless manufacturing.

Key duties include:

  • Technical drawing and design:
  • Create detailed 2D CAD drawings for custom joinery projects using AutoCAD.
  • Develop accurate and detailed technical drawings for manufacturing, including plans, elevations, sections, and detailed joinery components.
  • Interpret and translate client briefs, architectural drawings, and design concepts into technical drawings.
  • Ensure all drawings comply with industry standards, company specifications, and project requirements.

Collaboration and communication:

  • Work closely with the design team to understand project requirements and offer design input.
  • Collaborate with the production team to ensure drawings are feasible and align with manufacturing capabilities.
  • Liaise with Project Managers, Architects, and clients to resolve any design or technical issues.

Quality control:

  • Review and revise drawings based on feedback and ensure the accuracy of all final deliverables.
  • Maintain up-to-date project documentation and version control of drawings.
  • Conduct regular checks to ensure drawings meet company standards and regulatory requirements.

Role requirements include:

  • A degree or diploma in CAD, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
  • Proven experience (3+ years) as a CAD Technician, ideally within the joinery or woodworking industry.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD is essential.
  • Experience with other CAD and 3D modelling software, such as SolidWorks, preferred but not essential.
  • Strong understanding of joinery techniques, materials, and construction methods.
  • Excellent attention to detail and a keen eye for design.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically.
  • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Professional, reliable and willing to learn.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a great team, offering a very competitive package and further development.

Working hours are Monday to Friday. 07.30 to 16.30.

Free parking is available on-site.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Cleaner (part-time)
Sector: Customer Services
Salary: £12.21 per hour
Location: Ipswich
Role: Part Time
Contract: Temporary
Job ref: JT-IPS-C-0725
About the role

Just Temps is supporting a company in Ipswich, seeking an experienced Cleaner to join their team on a temporary basis. This is a great opportunity for someone looking for short-term evening work.

Hours: 5.00pm to 9.00pm (Monday to Friday)

Role responsibilities include:

  • General office cleaning across multiple floors
  • Cleaning of toilets, canteen areas, and communal spaces
  • Lifting and transporting heavy cleaning equipment up and down stairs
  • Ensuring high standards of cleanliness are maintained throughout the building

Requirements:

  • Previous cleaning experience is essential
  • Capable of handling heavy equipment
  • Reliable and punctual with a strong work ethic
  • Comfortable working independently across various areas of the building

Benefits:

  • Competitive hourly rate
  • Evening hours – ideal for fitting around other commitments
  • Supportive team environment

Free parking is available on-site.

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. 
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Technical Support Supervisor
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913720
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing organisation based in Sudbury to recruit a Technical Support Supervisor to join their long-standing team.

Due to business growth, this newly created position is responsible for supporting technical operations to ensure the smooth functioning of the technical systems, processes and projects under the guidance of the division's business leader.

The role is crucial in aligning the company’s technical capabilities with business goals, ensuring that the products are designed and manufactured/assembled to operate effectively and securely.

You will need to demonstrate experience in project management and implementation, technical experience and industry best practices. You will also need to show knowledge of compliance with relevant laws, regulations and industry standards.

Key requirements include:

  • Troubleshooting skills, to investigate and resolve technical issues relating to products
  • Provide technical support and training to other team members, including sales
  • Support the development and implementation of new products
  • Ability to produce accurate bills of materials (BOMS) and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
  • Experience in computer-aided design (CAD) and the ability to produce product drawings
  • Basic software programming skills would be an advantage
  • Sound understanding of electronics

This is a site-based role.

This role offers a very competitive package and a great working environment.


Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Product Sales Executive
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913721
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing business based in Sudbury, looking to add a Product Sales Executive to its long-established team.

Due to continued business growth, this newly created role will be responsible for building and managing relationships with both direct customers and distributors to drive revenue. The position forms part of the sales and marketing team.

Key duties include:

  • Qualifying and identifying customer needs, presenting product features and benefits, negotiating sales terms and ensuring customer satisfaction.
  • Selling to existing and new customers, building and maintaining client relationships, meeting sales targets, and developing your industry knowledge.
  • Identifying, qualifying, onboarding, and managing key partners to ensure they are motivated and aligned with business goals.
  • Demonstrate monitoring and reporting capability.

Key requirements include:

  • Proven experience in product sales.
  • Experience in qualifying and prospecting for new clients.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, relationship-building and written skills with the ability to build rapport with customers, listen to their needs and effectively communicate product information.
  • Nurture relationships with existing customers to ensure satisfaction and identify repeat business opportunities.
  • Ability to demonstrate product features and explain benefits.
  • A solid understanding of the sales cycle and sales techniques is critical. Ability to close deals, negotiate and handle objections.
  • Effective time management — to be able to prioritise tasks, manage sales activities and meet deadlines.

This is a site-based role, but there is an expectation that you will spend a significant portion of the role outside the office with clients, prospects, and business partners.

This role offers a very competitive salary and package.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more