You’ve worked hard in your quest to secure a new job and now you are days from reaping the rewards. You just received an offer from one of your targeted companies and you start next week. You were able to secure an interview through a networking contact and your professionally prepared and targeted resume made a great first impression on the hiring manager. All of your hard work paid off. As you embark on this new chapter in your professional life, it is important to get off to a great start in your new role and make your first 90 days count. Here are a few suggestions to make sure your first 90 days with your new company are not your last 90 days.
First impressions do count
Being on time for work is one of the best first impressions you can make as a new employee. Perception is reality and being on time sets a precedent. Conversely, being late during the first 90 days casts a negative light on you, one that can be hard to overcome in the future.
Completing your work accurately and on time is just as important during the first 90 days. You were hired because of your competency and the last thing you want to do is to raise questions as to your ability to do your job. If you are confused about an aspect of your job, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Be careful though. Bombarding your manager or coworkers with a plethora of inquiries can have unintended consequences.
Make sure your priorities are aligned correctly
Make a list of your priorities as you understand them and ask for guidance from your manager. You want to be certain that you are working on tasks that are most important and relevant at the time. If not, then your ability to prioritize and manage your work comes into question. Sharing your list with you manager is a great way to show that you are organized and that you understand the scope of your responsibilities.
Get in where you fit in
Feedback from your manager during your first 90 days is critical to your success. You do not want to get too far off track during this time period or you may find yourself back to where you started--looking for another job. If your manager does not offer to provide you feedback during your first 90 days, then you should request regular meetings to discuss your progress and to address any performance issues. During these meetings, listen more than you speak. It is critical that you take good notes and not give into any urge to make excuses concerning your performance. Remember, your first days on the job should be used to learn as much about the role as possible to increase your chances of success.
Do not isolate yourself from your coworkers. Get to know them, one by one. Join them for lunch. Ask questions about their roles and how their work fits into the organization. Avoid the gossip mill, however. Form your own opinions about coworkers, managers, customers, etc., before being influenced by the opinions of others.
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