The first few months of a new job can be overwhelming. You have new technology to learn, new colleagues to meet, and a different company culture to understand. The way you adapt to these challenges can have a significant impact on your long-term career success.
If you’re not prepared, your new job may feel like a disaster from the outset. According to a recent Robert Half study, ninety percent of new hires consider quitting within the first month. This can be due to a variety of factors, including inconsistency between your expectations and your reality at the company, poor management, or a lack of a supportive work environment.
To make the most of your new role, it’s important to set clear goals for yourself in your first 30 days, 60 days, and 90 days. These goals can be personal or professional, but they should be specific and measurable. Whether or not your manager requires a formal 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day plan, creating one can help you stay focused on the tasks that are most relevant to your career.
On your first day or week, ask to schedule a meeting with your manager and request a list of your responsibilities. This will give you an opportunity to discuss the expectations of your new role, and you can use this time to learn as much as possible about your supervisor’s leadership style and communication preferences.
Then, take the time to write down all of the information you’re receiving. It’s nearly impossible to remember everything you’re being told at the start, and writing it down can help you focus on what matters most. It’s also a great way to build your network and show that you are invested in your own career development.
Lastly, be sure to introduce yourself to your coworkers. The more people you know, the better your chance of becoming a valued member of the team. Introduce yourself by name, pronouns, and job title when appropriate. This will show that you’re thoughtful and approachable. It’s also a good idea to chat with your manager about the unwritten rules and standards of your new role so that you’re fully informed.
It’s natural to want to share your ideas and be productive right away, but your new colleagues may not appreciate the inexperienced newbie who tries to change everything immediately. Taking initiative shows that you’re confident, but it can be challenging to find the right balance between taking risks and overstepping your boundaries. Instead, try to learn as much as possible from the current processes before attempting any changes. This will help you earn the trust and confidence of your coworkers while still allowing you to challenge the status quo later on if needed.