How to Make a Great First Impression in a New Role

My client had just wrapped her first week in a new role. When her manager asked how she was settling in, she smiled and gave a safe answer: “Good! Just getting my bearings.”

But later, she confided in me:

This kind of self-doubt is common—especially for highly sensitive leaders who care deeply about making a great first impression. The challenge is, in trying to prove yourself, you might unintentionally dilute the very strengths that earned you this opportunity.

So how do you start strong in a new job while staying grounded, collaborative, and clear?

Your nervous system is doing exactly what it’s designed to do: scan for safety in new environments. For highly sensitive people, that scanning is turned way up—you notice more, feel more, and think more. This can lead to new job anxiety, hesitation, or second-guessing.

At the same time, research shows that managers form lasting impressions within the first few interactions. That means your early presence, tone, and communication style will directly impact how much trust your manager places in you—and how they view your potential.

Your manager doesn’t need to be impressed—they need a trusted collaborator. Use phrases like:

• “Here’s what I’m considering. What’s your take?”

• “What’s worked well with others in this role?”

This subtle shift helps you build a strong relationship with your new manager from day one.

Go beyond “what should I do?” and ask:

• “What does success look like after 30, 60, and 90 days?”

• “What communication rhythm works best for you?”

These questions signal initiative and self-awareness—two traits your manager will notice immediately.

Many highly sensitive high-achievers hope their work will “speak for itself.” But in a new job, others don’t yet know your strengths. Don’t be afraid to say:

• “Here’s what I bring to this role.”

• “This is the kind of support that brings out my best work.”

This isn’t self-promotion—it’s orientation.