Congratulations, you’ve landed a new job! After the excitement of receiving the offer letter subsides, it’s time to start thinking about how to make the best impression in your first ninety days of employment. The beginning of a new job can be overwhelming and intimidating, but with the right strategies, you can hit the ground running and set yourself up for long-term success.
What are the first ninety days of employment?
The first ninety days of employment, also known as the probation period, are critical for both the employee and the employer. It’s a time for you to get acclimated to your new role, understand the company culture, and build relationships with your colleagues. On the other hand, your employer will be evaluating your performance, assessing your fit within the team, and determining if they made the right hiring decision.
Do your research before day one
The key to success in the first ninety days starts with preparation. Take some time to research the company, its products or services, and its competitors. Familiarize yourself with the industry and current trends. You can also reach out to your hiring manager or future colleagues to gain a better understanding of the company’s goals and expectations.
Additionally, make sure you have a clear understanding of your job description and responsibilities. This will help you align your goals and priorities with the organization’s objectives.
Set achievable goals
Goal setting is crucial for success in any role, but it’s especially important in the first ninety days. It’s essential to set goals that are achievable and measurable.
Start by identifying your short-term objectives for the first month and gradually move towards longer-term goals for the next two months. Make sure your goals align with your manager’s expectations and the company’s objectives. This will not only help you stay motivated and focused but also demonstrate your commitment and drive to succeed.
Be a sponge
The first ninety days are a learning curve, so be open to new ideas, processes, and perspectives. Take advantage of every opportunity to learn from your colleagues, attend training sessions, and familiarize yourself with the company’s systems and processes.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek feedback. Being curious and eager to learn not only showcases your enthusiasm and interest in the company but also helps you gain a better understanding of your role and expectations.
Build relationships
Building relationships is crucial for navigating any workplace successfully. Take the time to get to know your colleagues, understand their roles and responsibilities, and how they contribute to the team. Cultivating these relationships will not only help you integrate into the team but also help you gain support and guidance when needed.
Networking outside your immediate team is also essential. Attend company events, join committees, and engage in group activities to interact with employees from different departments. This will help you expand your professional network and gain insights into the organization’s culture.
Track your progress
It’s essential to keep track of your progress during the first ninety days. Set a reminder to review your goals, accomplishments, and areas for improvement at the end of each month. Celebrate your wins and address any challenges you may have faced.
Having a record of your progress will not only help you monitor your performance but also provide talking points during performance reviews.
Conclusion
The first ninety days of employment are crucial for setting the foundation for success in your new role. With proper preparation, setting achievable goals, being open to learning, building relationships, and tracking your progress, you can demonstrate your value and potential to your employer. So, take advantage of this probation period and make the most out of it!
Leave a Reply