Q. I'm starting my first "real world" job in a month. I want to make a good impression and fit in with my co-workers. Many of them are older and more experienced, so, I'm nervous they will think of me as just a kid. Any advice on how to prove I'm knowledgeable and can be taken seriously?

A. Congratulations on your new job. Making a good impression on your co-workers is important to building your accountability and status at your company. Remember it takes time to build trust.

Here is advice on becoming a strong, young professional:

1. Have a positive attitude. Everyone gets projects that are not as exciting as they had anticipated the job would be. Stay positive and prove that you are capable of being given more challenging and exciting projects.

2. Dress appropriately. Remember that you are not in college or at a bar. Wear outfits that are suitable for your workplace.

3. If you don't know, ask. It takes less time to ask for clarification or information than it takes to do something wrong and have to start over.

4. Own up to your mistakes. Covering up mistakes almost never works. Let your boss know, because this could be a costly mistake.

5. Listen. You learn the most important bits of information by paying attention.

6. Project confidence and competence. If you don't know the answer to something, just say, "I don't know, I will find out." But be sure to find out or follow up.