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Starting a new job can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. It's a significant change in your life that brings new challenges, responsibilities, and opportunities. The first 90 days in a new job are crucial for setting the tone for your future success in the role. This period is often referred to as the "honeymoon phase," and how you navigate it can greatly impact your long-term prospects within the organization. In this article, we will explore strategies and tips for not only surviving but thriving during your first 90 days in a new job.
The Importance of the First 90 Days In a New Job
The first 90 days in a new job serve as a critical foundation for your future career trajectory within the organization. During this period, you are expected to make a positive impression, build relationships, understand your role, and begin contributing effectively. Here's why these first 90 days are so crucial:
1. Establishing Credibility
Your colleagues and superiors will form their initial impressions of you during this time. Building credibility early on is essential for gaining trust and respect within the workplace.
In the first few weeks, you should focus on demonstrating your competence and dedication. Complete tasks with precision and a strong work ethic, and always meet deadlines. Show initiative by volunteering for projects and contributing your expertise where possible. By consistently delivering quality work, you'll earn the respect of your peers and supervisors.
2. Learning and Adapting
The first 90 days are an intensive learning period. You must quickly grasp the ins and outs of your role, the company culture, and the expectations placed upon you. Adaptability is key to success in this phase.
Take a proactive approach to learning. Seek out training opportunities, shadow experienced colleagues, and absorb as much information as you can. Make it a habit to ask questions when you're unsure about something. Embrace feedback, both positive and constructive, as it can help you refine your skills and better align with your role's demands.
3. Building Relationships
Developing positive relationships with your coworkers, managers, and subordinates is essential for a harmonious work environment. The connections you make during these early days can greatly influence your long-term experience in the organization.
Building relationships requires effort and intentionality. Take the time to get to know your colleagues on a personal level. Show genuine interest in their backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Attend team-building events or informal gatherings to bond with your coworkers outside of the regular work setting. Building a supportive network within the organization can provide valuable insights and assistance when you need it.
4. Setting Expectations
Clear communication and alignment of expectations with your supervisor are vital during this period. Knowing what is expected of you will help you prioritize tasks and meet goals effectively.
Schedule regular check-ins with your manager to discuss your progress and clarify any uncertainties. Establishing open lines of communication ensures that you're on the same page regarding your role, performance expectations, and any potential challenges. Use these meetings to set goals, track your achievements, and address any concerns early on.
Before Your First Day | Tips To Survive 90 Days in a New Job
The preparation for your new job begins before your first day at the office. Here's what you should do in the lead-up to your new role:
1. Research the Company
Before you start, research the company thoroughly. Understand its history, culture, values, and any recent news or developments. Familiarize yourself with the company's products, services, and market position.
Gaining a deep understanding of the company demonstrates your commitment and enthusiasm. It also equips you with valuable knowledge that you can use to align your contributions with the organization's goals. During interviews and initial conversations, reference your research to show that you've invested time in learning about the company.
2. Review Your Role and Responsibilities
Review your job description and any other relevant documents to gain a clear understanding of your role, responsibilities, and goals. Identify any specific skills or knowledge you need to excel in your new position.
This preparatory step allows you to hit the ground running. If there are gaps in your skills or knowledge, consider seeking relevant training or certifications before your start date. This proactive approach demonstrates your commitment to being an asset to the organization from day one.
3. Set Personal Goals:
Set personal goals for your first 90 days. What do you want to achieve? These goals could be related to tasks you need to complete, skills you want to develop, or relationships you want to establish. Your personal goals should align with your role and the company's objectives. For example, if you're in a sales role, you might set a goal to achieve a certain level of sales within the first quarter. Having clear goals will give you a sense of purpose and direction, making it easier to measure your progress.
4. Prepare Questions
Prepare a list of questions you want to ask during your first few days. This demonstrates your eagerness to learn and adapt to the new environment. Questions can be about your role, the team, or the company's strategic direction.Asking thoughtful questions not only helps you gather essential information but also shows your engagement and interest in your new position. It's an opportunity to gain insights and clarity that can be invaluable as you navigate your first 90 days and beyond.
Your First Days In New Jo
Once you've made it through the hiring process and are about to embark on your new role, here's how you can make the most of your first days:
1. Dress Appropriately
On your first day, dress appropriately for the company culture. If in doubt, it's better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. Dressing professionally sends a positive message about your commitment and respect for the workplace.
Your attire should align with the company's dress code, which you can research during your pre-start period. If you're unsure, it's acceptable to ask your HR contact or future supervisor for guidance on the company's dress expectations.
Read our dedicated blog on What to Wear In A Job interview
2. Arrive Early
Punctuality is crucial, especially on your first day. Arrive a bit early to familiarize yourself with the office layout and get settled before your official start time.Being punctual demonstrates your reliability and enthusiasm for the role. It also allows you to begin your day without rushing, which can contribute to a calm and focused start.
3. Be Approachable
During your initial interactions with colleagues and superiors, be approachable and open. Smile, introduce yourself confidently, and make an effort to remember names. Active listening is key to understanding your new environment. Approachability fosters positive first impressions. It makes others feel comfortable and encourages open communication. Be receptive to introductions and conversations, and make an effort to engage with your new colleagues.
4. Learn the Basics
Spend time during your first days learning about the office's basic functions. Familiarize yourself with the office layout, restrooms, kitchen, and other essential facilities.Navigating the office environment with ease shows your ability to adapt and integrate seamlessly. It minimizes disruptions and allows you to focus on your tasks and interactions without the distraction of searching for basic amenities.
5. Seek Guidance
Don't be afraid to ask for help or clarification when needed. It's better to seek guidance and ensure you understand your tasks than to make avoidable mistakes due to hesitation.Asking questions is a sign of initiative and a commitment to doing your job correctly. Colleagues and supervisors appreciate when new team members take the initiative to understand processes and expectations thoroughly.
6. Take Notes
Carry a notebook or use a digital note-taking app to jot down important information, such as names, office protocols, and instructions. This will help you remember details and demonstrate your commitment to learning.Note-taking is a practical way to retain information and ensure that you don't forget important details. It also shows that you value the information being shared with you and take the initiative to document it for future reference.
Building Relationships
Building positive relationships with your coworkers and superiors is a crucial aspect of succeeding in your new job. Here's how to foster these relationships during your first 90 days:
1. Be a Team Player
Show a willingness to collaborate and be a team player. Offer assistance when appropriate, and acknowledge the contributions of your colleagues. Building a reputation as a supportive coworker will benefit you in the long run.In a team-oriented environment, being a team player is essential. Your colleagues will appreciate your willingness to help, and this collaborative spirit can lead to a more productive and harmonious work environment.
2. Network
Take advantage of opportunities to network within the organization. Attend team meetings, departmental gatherings, and company-wide events. Engaging with your colleagues outside of regular work tasks can help you build connections. Networking allows you to expand your professional circle and gain insights from different departments or teams. It can also lead to valuable mentorship or collaborative projects down the line.
3. Listen Actively
Effective communication involves not only speaking but also listening. Be an active listener during meetings and one-on-one interactions. Pay attention to what others are saying, and ask questions for clarification when necessary.Active listening demonstrates your respect for others' viewpoints and your commitment to understanding their perspectives. It also helps you avoid misunderstandings and promotes effective communication.
4. Seek Mentorship
If possible, seek out a mentor within the organization. A mentor can provide valuable guidance, share insights about the company culture, and help you navigate challenges. Mentorship can accelerate your learning curve and provide you with a trusted confidant who can offer advice and support. It's an excellent way to gain insights into the company's inner workings and culture.
5. Show Appreciation
Don't forget to express gratitude when your colleagues or superiors assist you or offer support. A simple "thank you" can go a long way in building positive relationships.Showing appreciation fosters goodwill and strengthens the bonds you form with your colleagues. It's a small gesture that can make a big difference in how you're perceived within the workplace.
Navigating Company Culture
Every workplace has its unique culture and norms. Navigating company culture effectively is vital for success in your new job:
1. Observe and Adapt
Observe how things are done in your new workplace. Pay attention to dress codes, communication styles, and office protocols. Adapt your behavior and approach to align with the company culture. Company culture encompasses the values, behaviors, and expectations that define how work is conducted. By observing and adapting to this culture, you demonstrate your ability to integrate into the team and contribute positively to the organization.
2. Be Respectful
Show respect to everyone you interact with, regardless of their role or position. Treat your colleagues, superiors, and subordinates with courtesy and professionalism. Respect is a fundamental aspect of workplace interactions. It fosters a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated.
3. Embrace Diversity
Many workplaces today are diverse and inclusive. Embrace diversity and be open to learning from people with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Diversity can bring new ideas, creativity, and innovation to the workplace. Embracing diversity and inclusion shows your commitment to a harmonious and equitable work environment.
4. Contribute to a Positive Environment
Promote a positive work environment by being friendly, supportive, and constructive. Avoid office politics, gossip, and negativity. Creating a positive environment contributes to higher morale and productivity. Your colleagues will appreciate your efforts to maintain a harmonious workplace.
Read our dedicated article on How To Deal With Toxic Co-worker In a Workplace
Managing Your Workload
Effectively managing your workload is crucial during the first 90 days and beyond:
1. Prioritize Tasks
Identify your most important tasks and prioritize them. Focus on high-impact projects and responsibilities that align with your goals and the company's objectives. Effective task prioritization ensures that you allocate your time and energy to the most valuable activities. It helps you stay on track and deliver results that contribute to the organization's success.
2. Set Realistic Expectations
Be realistic about what you can accomplish in your first 90 days. Don't overcommit and risk burnout. Instead, communicate openly with your supervisor about your workload and deadlines. Transparent communication about your workload allows your supervisor to provide support or adjust expectations if necessary. It also demonstrates your dedication to delivering quality work.
3. Time Management
Practice good time management to ensure you meet deadlines and deliver quality work. Use tools and techniques that work best for you, such as to-do lists, time-blocking, or project management software.Effective time management helps you juggle multiple tasks and responsibilities efficiently. It ensures that you make the most of your work hours and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
4. Seek Feedback
Regularly seek feedback from your supervisor and colleagues on your performance. Use this feedback to improve and refine your work.Feedback is a valuable tool for growth and development. It provides insights into areas where you excel and areas that may require improvement. By actively seeking and applying feedback, you demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement.
Check out our article on Signs You’re in a Toxic Work Environment
Problem-Solving and Adaptability
Your ability to solve problems and adapt to challenges is a valuable asset in any job:
1. Be Resourceful:
When faced with obstacles, be resourceful and seek solutions independently when possible. Use the resources available to you, including colleagues and company documentation.Resourcefulness demonstrates your problem-solving skills and ability to overcome challenges. It also reduces the need for constant assistance, making you a self-reliant and efficient team member.
2. Learn from Mistakes
It's normal to make mistakes, especially in a new role. When you do, acknowledge them, learn from them, and take steps to prevent similar errors in the future. Mistakes are opportunities for growth and learning. Embrace them as part of your professional journey and use them to become more effective and resilient.
3. Adapt to Change
The business world is constantly evolving. Be open to change and willing to adapt to new processes, technologies, or strategies as they arise.Adaptability is a valuable skill that ensures you stay relevant and effective in a changing work environment. Embrace change as a chance to learn and grow.
4. Stay Positive
Maintain a positive attitude, even when faced with challenges. A positive mindset can help you approach problems with resilience and creativity.A positive attitude not only benefits your mental well-being but also influences your interactions with colleagues and your ability to find solutions to problems. It's a valuable asset in any workplace.
In case, you are not satisfied with your current job and want to switch jobs, you can check our detailed article on How to Write a Resignation Letter
Setting and Measuring Goals
Setting and measuring goals is essential for tracking your progress during the first 90 days:
1. Set SMART GoalsSMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Use this framework to set clear and actionable goals for your first 90 days.Setting SMART goals ensures that your objectives are well-defined and attainable. It provides a roadmap for your work and helps you stay focused on what matters most.
2. Track Your Progress
Regularly review your progress toward your goals. Are you on track? If not, identify any obstacles and adjust your approach accordingly.Tracking your progress keeps you accountable and allows you to make necessary adjustments to stay aligned with your goals. It also helps you communicate your achievements to your supervisor and team.
3. Celebrate Achievements
When you reach milestones or achieve your goals, take a moment to celebrate your accomplishments. Recognizing your successes can boost your motivation and morale. Celebrating achievements is essential for maintaining your motivation and sense of accomplishment. It also reinforces your commitment to continuous improvement.
4. Reevaluate and Adjust
As your understanding of your role and the company deepens, be willing to reevaluate your goals and adjust them if necessary. Flexibility is key to success. Reevaluation allows you to adapt your goals to changing circumstances or new insights. It ensures that your objectives remain relevant and aligned with your evolving role and responsibilities.
Seeking Feedback and Improvement
Continuous improvement is a key aspect of a successful career. Here's how to seek feedback and improve during your first 90 days:
1. Request Feedback
Proactively request feedback from your supervisor and colleagues. Ask for constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement.
Requesting feedback shows your commitment to growth and your willingness to learn from others. It opens the door to valuable insights that can help you enhance your performance.
2. Act on Feedback
