Chances are, if you are one of the hundreds of thousands of newly minted college graduates who are thrilled to be done with school, you are also now facing the prospect of entering the "real world". You may also be one of the many who are on the verge of starting your first "real job".

While it's tempting to take a well-deserved breather before your new job start date, if you want to be successful in your new job early on there's still some work to do. Just as you prepared for your interviews, you will need to put some time and energy into preparing for your new job to make sure you hit the ground running. [More from Forbes: Tips for young professionals starting a new job]

To get you headed in the right direction from day one, I thought about many of the common mistakes that had been shared with me over the years and then tested these out with individuals who lead talent and recruiting organizations with Fortune 500 firms. Here is our collective wisdom on this topic, so you can avoid many of the pitfalls that have befallen the less well prepared.

"Start" before you start

Your work reputation begins before you know it

You've heard it a million times but I'll say it again: first impressions can be lasting impressions. In an increasingly competitive and demanding work culture your co-workers will form an impression of you quickly. Make it a positive one! [More from Forbes: 20 job rules for Milennials]

Engage with your co-workers

In some ways getting the job is much easier than being successful in it and in turn leveraging each workplace experience and opportunity toward the next step in your career. Just perform well and follow the advice here and you'll be well on your way!

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Insider Secrets to Success on Your First Job