My First 90 Days: How to Make a Great First Impression

In this series, professionals share how they rocked — or didn't! — the all-important first 90 days on the job. Follow the stories here and write your own (please include the hashtag #First90 in the body of your post).

In my years as a fashion editor, a freelance stylist and now as CEO of a multifaceted company, I have learned what it takes to be a great employee and to stand out from the rest. This month, I am honored to share my insight and advice on how to make a lasting impression on an employer and shine from the get-go.

Put your best foot forward always! A strong start shows a high level of commitment to the job and proves you are a good fit in their corporate culture. Once hired, it’s time to showcase your talents and prove your value. Beyond an employee’s qualifications and merits, I believe a good attitude and a positive disposition go a long way. I usually find myself asking, “Is this person a team player? Can they jump into any situation and think on their feet? Are they resourceful?” Someone who is willing to cover for people and collaborate with others is very important to the greater good of the business.

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Take cues from the environment to better navigate the needs of a job. Asking the right questions about the office culture in your interview and in the first few days of your job so you can adapt accordingly is so helpful. Ask yourself if you are someone who prefers a structured work environment or a more creative and relaxed atmosphere. Rachel Zoe, Inc. is not traditionally a corporate establishment, but there is some degree of structure present. We are by nature a creative company, so my team has to think creatively and have some freedom. Understanding the corporate culture of your new workplace and feeding off that energy are key to understanding how and in what ways you can add the most value to your new job.

I always seek in an employee an unprecedented level of enthusiasm, excitement and curiosity for the job. As someone who has personally relied on her gut when it comes to making important career decisions, I love seeing a new hire use their instincts and problem-solving skills to tackle a challenge they face in the first few months on the job. Avoid bringing a problem to your boss before trying to solve it first! While I believe there are no dumb questions, there is something to be said about someone who uses common sense and is resourceful before asking for help from a supervisor. This highlights ones independence and confidence, which are major pluses for a fast-paced business.

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I strongly believe in a learning curve and it varies from person to person. The time it takes you to surpass the learning curve is not as important as how you arrived there and what you learned along the way. Taking initiative and owning your work is the best way to get a grip on your new title and set of responsibilities.

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I firmly believe that you can never “overdo” your job. I believe that a stellar employee is one who rises to any task with a smile and works with confidence, not arrogance. I have always worked harder than what is necessary from the start of my over twenty-year career and it continues to serve me well to this day. Always be driven by passion for what you do and success will come, I promise!

Photo originally appeared on TheThick.com. For more from Rachel, visit TheZoeReport.com.