Ask Deb: How Do I Ensure My First 90 Days Are Successful?

Hi Deb:

I am starting a new job next month and need some advice. I have been at my current company for 6 years. It was my first job out of college, and I had become very comfortable working there. However, at the prompting of an internal mentor, I began looking around outside of my company a few months ago. I am excited about the new role, but I’m also nervous about it. My only “corporate” experience has been with one company and team. I entered this company as an entry-level hire, and the learning curve was steep. I am a bit concerned about learning a new role and culture, not to mention learning to work with an entirely different team and manager. 

Can you give me some basic advice on how to proceed in a new role?

Thanks,

Michelle

Hi Michelle:

Thanks for the question; yours is a good one. So much of the time, I focus on coaching clients on best practices for resume writing, interviewing, targeting companies, and other efforts related to finding a new job. But securing the new role is only the beginning! As you pointed out, there are many things to consider when starting a new job. This will be a big change for you, in particular, as you’ve only worked for one company since graduating college. The first thing to do is to get your mindset ready for the unknown and different. There will be things similar to your previous company, but you will be acutely aware of the differences. So be prepared, and expect the unknown.

First, you should be going into your new role with a plan for what you hope to accomplish during the first 30/60/90 days in your new role. As part of your onboarding, you should meet with your new manager and validate that 90-day plan. Once you agree on your 3-month goals, create a written project plan. Break it down into specific tasks to help you stay on track. 

Next, identify the stakeholders, and meet them individually. Your conversations as a new employee will be extensions of your interviews. Review your interview notes, dig in, and craft questions that will reveal what you wish to know. Remember, you’re not just meeting your new coworkers; you’re also building your brand and network. A key part of networking is approaching it from the perspective of how you can help the other person, not just what they can do for you. So when you’re talking to your new colleagues, make a point to understand their problems and how you can make their jobs easier. 

Once you’ve met with all your stakeholders, go back to your 30/60/90 plan and revise it with the input that you’ve received. Then, review the tactics that you laid out when you first joined the company and adjust those as needed. Share this with your new manager in a conversation about your understanding of the role, goals, and KPIs. Ongoing communication with your manager for feedback on your performance will be of critical importance. If they do not schedule a weekly meeting with you, take the initiative and schedule it yourself. 

For more comprehensive information, I suggest the book, The First 90 Days. The author provides practical information and strategies for conquering the challenges of career transition. 

All my best,

Deb