Getting off on the right foot at your new job may make the difference between staying for the long haul and looking for another job sooner than you had expected. 

Make a checklist of what you want from your new job as soon as you accept the offer, and discuss these points with your boss.

Identify the key players at work, then establish relationships with them.

Start on a Wednesday or Thursday. The stress of starting a new job on a Monday will cause you to fade by midweek; this way, you'll fade with everyone else on Friday.

Show up on time or early, and dress comfortably but appropriately.

Jump in with both feet rather than expecting the first day or week to be orientation. Grab that first assignment and shine.

Avoid making assumptions about your manager's expectations. Ask whether your boss prefers oral, written or presentation-style reports.

Spend time listening and asking questions. Don't offer solutions too quickly without understanding the problem well.