The Essential Guide to Surviving Your First Ninety Days at a New Job
You’ve just landed your dream job and the excitement is real. You can’t wait to get started and make your mark in the company. However, before you dive in headfirst, it’s important to take a step back and prepare yourself for the first critical ninety days at your new job. These initial months are crucial for setting yourself up for long-term success and making a good impression on your colleagues and superiors. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with this essential guide to surviving your first ninety days at a new job.
Know the Company Culture
Every company has its own unique culture and it’s important to understand and adapt to it. Take time to observe your colleagues and understand how they operate. This will help you understand the company’s values, expectations, and norms. It’s also important to be aware of any unwritten rules or traditions within the company. This will help you fit in and avoid any potential missteps during your first ninety days.
Set Realistic Goals
During your first ninety days, it’s crucial to set achievable goals for yourself. This will not only help you stay motivated and focused, but also show your superiors that you are proactive and driven. However, make sure your goals are realistic and aligned with the company’s objectives. Setting unattainable goals may do more harm than good and cause unnecessary stress.
Short-Term and Long-Term Goals
It’s important to have a mix of short-term and long-term goals. Short-term goals can give you quick wins and help you build momentum, while long-term goals will keep you focused on the bigger picture. Make sure to communicate your goals with your superiors and seek their feedback along the way. This will show them that you are committed and serious about your role.
SMART Goals
When setting your goals, make sure they are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). This will give you a clear framework to work towards and help you track your progress. SMART goals are also easier to communicate and align with the company’s objectives.
Build Relationships
The first ninety days are not only about getting familiar with the company, but also about building relationships with your colleagues. Make an effort to get to know them on a personal level and attend any team-building activities or events. This will not only help you feel more connected to your new workplace, but also show your colleagues that you are a team player.
Networking Outside Your Department
It’s also important to network outside of your immediate team or department. Take time to get to know people from other departments, as they may become an important resource for you in the future. Building relationships with colleagues from various departments can also help you understand the company’s operations and culture better.
Seek Feedback
During your first ninety days, be proactive in seeking feedback from your superiors and colleagues. This will not only show that you are open to improvement, but also help you identify any areas that you may need to work on. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback and make sure to act on it to continuously improve.
Listen and Learn
It’s natural to want to impress your new colleagues and superiors, but it’s important to remember that you are still new and have a lot to learn. Listen carefully to instructions and ask questions when you are unsure. This will not only help you understand your role better, but also show that you are eager to learn and grow.
Take Notes
To help you remember important instructions or information, take notes during meetings or training sessions. This will also show that you are attentive and serious about your role.
Show Gratitude
During your first ninety days, it’s important to show gratitude to those who have helped you along the way. A simple thank you can go a long way in building strong relationships and showing appreciation for the support you’ve received.
Be Open to Change
Starting a new job can be overwhelming and there may be times when you feel out of your comfort zone. Embrace these challenges and be open to change. This will not only help you adapt to your new role and company faster, but also show your superiors that you are flexible and can handle new situations.
Embrace Feedback
Don’t be afraid to receive feedback, whether it’s positive or negative. Use it as an opportunity to learn and improve. Remember, feedback is a gift and it shows that your superiors are invested in your growth.
Seek Growth Opportunities
Show your superiors that you are eager to learn and grow by seeking out new opportunities. Whether it’s taking on new projects or attending training sessions, these opportunities can help you develop new skills and contribute to the company’s success.
Stay Positive
Starting a new job can be challenging and there may be times when you doubt yourself. However, it’s important to stay positive and maintain a can-do attitude. This will not only help you overcome any obstacles, but also show your superiors that you are resilient and determined. Remember, the first ninety days are just the beginning and you have the potential to accomplish great things at your new job.
With this essential guide, you are now ready to tackle your first ninety days at your new job with confidence. Remember to be yourself, be open to learning, and stay committed to your goals. Good luck!
