First days are hard, there's no arguing that. The moment you set foot in the door all eyes will be watching and judging you to determine what kind of person you are.

Making a great first impression is crucial. If you start off on the wrong foot, people aren't likely to forget very easily... if ever.

Here are 6 ideas to make your first days go smoother...

• Dress for success ~ It goes without saying, but just in case, the first thing people will notice as you walk through the door will be your appearance. Make sure your hair is trimmed and neat.

Your clothing should present an image commensurate with the workplace... then, step it up a notch higher. Being well-groomed says efficient and reliable to your supervisor and co-workers.

• Watch what your body says about you ~ Without our realizing it, our body language speaks volumes about us, so make sure that you're feeling relaxed and confident.

A good firm handshake does wonders in conveying confidence. Most importantly, smile and be friendly. A genuine smile makes a great lasting impression and has a way of breaking down barriers with most people.

• Learn names quickly ~ This may be a trick if you weren't been blessed with a good memory. Your co-workers will be impressed, however, if you have their names down pat within a day or two of you meeting them.

When introduced, repeat their name back to them, and find a unique characteristic about that person that will help jog your memory the next time you see them.

If you still can't remember their name, simply apologize and ask for it again.

• Turn off your electronic gadgetry ~ Yes. This means turn your phone or pager off. In a society where people can barely walk unless they have a cell phone stuck to their ear, this may be difficult.

However, your supervisor is going to want to know you're taking your new position seriously and are giving it your undivided attention.

• Keep a notebook and pen handy ~ People will be throwing a lot of information at you quickly throughout your first couple of days.

Be prepared to take notes, mostly so you don't have to ask questions on something you've already been told how to do.

People don't mind being helpful, but most will balk at having to repeat themselves again and again.

• Don't be afraid to ask questions ~ We're often worried that if we ask too many questions, we'll come across as not being too bright.

Relax... no one is expecting you to know all of the ins and outs of your new job on the first day, or even in the first week.

If you don't think you can figure out a problem, ask for help. Your new co-workers will welcome the opportunity to show you the ropes.

Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal. Aveta Solutions - Six Sigma Online ( http://www.sixsigmaonline.org ) offers online six sigma training and certification classes for lean six sigma, black belts, green belts, and yellow belts.