British workers keen to make a good impression beyond the first day

Nearly three quarters of British workers make an effort to impress their bosses throughout their time at their companies, according to new research.

In a survey by CV-Library, 71 per cent of employees said they try to make a good impression all the way through their spell in a role – not just at the beginning.

Women were the most likely to do this, with 76 per cent reporting it is something they try to do, while 76 per cent of those aged between 35 and 44 also aim to impress throughout.

When asked for specifics, 27 per cent said they attempt to impress their superiors by effectively managing their workloads during their time working for their employers.

Meanwhile, 18 per cent said they constantly put forward new ideas and 13 per cent said they take on responsibilities outside of their job descriptions.

10 per cent said they help other members of their teams and another 10 per cent said they try to make a good impression by ensuring they are always punctual.

“Our findings suggest that UK workers are keen to impress their new employers, and this is unsurprising,” said Lee Biggins, founder and managing director of CV-Library.

SME Publications/ SME XPO 2024

“If you want to get ahead in your career, coming across well is a key factor, especially when it comes to your boss.

“Effectively managing your time, taking on additional responsibilities and bringing new ideas to the table are all great ways to ensure your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed.

“Working hard to impress your employer throughout your time at the company is a step in the right direction for climbing up the ladder, making it easier for your boss to recognise your continued dedication to the business.”

Of the professionals who said they would not continue to try to impress their employers, 22 per cent said they would only try hard for up to a year, eight per cent would only make the effort for the first week, five per cent for a month and six per cent for the first three months.

“It’s positive to see that the majority of professionals will always aim to please their employer, and not allow the novelty to wear off when they no longer view them as a ‘new’ boss,” Biggins said.

“It is, however, concerning that some will only try to make a good impression for as short a time as a week. Moving forward will always require hard work, so you have to be willing to put the effort in. Otherwise you could find yourself stuck in a rut, with your daily tasks going unnoticed by your boss.”

For more from the survey, see the CV-Library website.


Photo from tony4urban / 123RF Stock Photo

SME Publications/ SME XPO 2024