Your first day at a new job can be an overwhelming experience. After all, everything -- and everyone -- is completely unfamiliar, and you're probably not sure how to interact in your new setting. Introducing yourself to your co-workers will help you feel more comfortable as you get settled in, and will pave the way toward positive professional relationships in the future.

Arrive Early

Arrive 20 minutes early on your first day to give yourself time to make at least a few introductions right away -- and to show your new boss that punctuality is no problem for you. Introducing yourself before work begins will eliminate any awkward tension as your new colleagues begin to notice a new member of their team. While you may not be able to introduce yourself to everyone first thing, you'll have less introductions to tackle throughout the day -- and more time to focus on learning your new duties.

Be Friendly

Your introduction should be warm and friendly to make the best possible first impression. Be prepared to introduce yourself and smile when doing so. Tell each colleague that you're pleased to meet them. Provide your name and new position within the company, and show that you're interested in your co-workers by asking for theirs. If someone asks about your past experience, it's fine to answer, but avoid coming off as arrogant or boastful. It's important to be polite and professional toward everyone you meet, but refrain from being overly friendly to the point people think you're trying too hard or are being insincere.

Analyze Your Encounters

Pay attention to your co-workers' body language and verbal cues as you make your introductions, as these can be fairly revealing of their initial stances toward you. While everyone around the office is likely to warm up to your arrival over time, you should be able to pick out immediately who's willing to engage in small talk and who's focused solely on business. If someone seems willing to chat, it's okay to have a brief, friendly conversation with them. If someone seems like they're in a hurry, give it time and save the conversation for later.

Be Professional

Tone down your natural personality in your first encounter -- you'll have plenty of time to share your big ideas and favorite jokes in the weeks to come, and according to the website CNNMoney, over-sharing in your introduction might be off-putting to your colleagues. Your new co-workers might be intimidated by your demeanor, and this could cause you to start off on a bad note with some of your peers.