But wait – before you dream of your next promotion, there is something you will have to jump over one more hurdle: getting through those first days and weeks. So what can you do to make sure you’ll navigate those cliffs just as expertly as you aced that interview?

Preparedness is your best friend now. So set aside a few hours to prepare yourself beyond taking your suit to the cleaner’s. We asked CareerWomen.com employers & recruiters for their recommendations for a successful job start.

Most importantly, find out everything you can about your new company, the key players, and the people who you will be working with. Some information, such as a new supervisor’s professional background, or in-depth data on the company and industry, is easy to locate on the Internet, in libraries, in newspaper articles, in the company’s Annual Reports, or through your professional network. For other facts, you may have to resort to more creative tactics. Do you know someone at the company who knows your new supervisors management style, or do you remember seeing the company’s name in a social context such as sponsorship or charity events? If you can demonstrate you’ve done more than your homework, you will score big.

When interacting with new coworkers and supervisors, watch for cues how others act. Is the tone lighthearted or more formal? Is there an open door policy in place? Are you supposed to get your information proactively, or is there someone who will talk you under their wings and walk you through your new job step-by-step, rule-by-rule, form-by-form? Is the climate social or reserved? Observe and try your bet to fit in while being genuine.

Don't be reserved when others approach you, make sure you appear accessible and friendly but be careful not to volunteer too much personal information right on Day 1. At the same time, don't hesitate to approach your new coworkers with a warm smile and a handshake, introducing yourself with your full name and function, and a nicely phrased request for help and patience whenever necessary. Regardless of your list of impressive credentials and accomplishments, a little humility goes a very long way. Most people really enjoy helping a newcomer settle in, especially if the new person seems eager to listen and to learn. But don't expect to be part of the inner circle early on - wanting too much too soon can backfire badly. Refraining from participating in gossip and trying to elicit information on people's negative traits is obvious and needn't be stated.