Survive (and Thrive) in Your First 90 Days at Your New Job

Starting a new job can feel like being thrown in the deep end. You want to make a great first impression, learn the ropes quickly, and prove your worth—all while adjusting to a brand-new environment. The first 90 days are crucial for setting the foundation for long-term success. Here’s how to survive and thrive in your new role.

Understand Expectations from Day One

Your first step to success is knowing exactly what’s expected of you. During your onboarding process, clarify your role, responsibilities, and performance goals with your manager. This will help you focus on the right priorities and avoid unnecessary confusion.

Set Clear Goals and Priorities

Many employees struggle in the first few months because they lack a clear sense of direction. Without a structured plan, it’s easy to get caught up in daily tasks without making meaningful progress.

Key Actions:

• Review your job description and align it with your manager’s expectations.
• Ask for a 30-60-90 day plan if one isn’t provided.
• Set up regular check-ins to track your progress.
• Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) that will measure your success.

Build Strong Relationships

Your colleagues can be your biggest allies in navigating your new workplace. Building positive relationships will help you integrate faster and create a support system. The sooner you establish rapport, the easier it will be to collaborate and succeed in your role.

Make a Good First Impression

First impressions matter. From your initial introductions to how you contribute in meetings, people will form opinions about you quickly. Show professionalism, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn.

Key Actions:

• Introduce yourself to your team and key stakeholders early on.
• Be proactive in networking—attend team meetings, coffee catch-ups, or social events.
• Observe workplace culture and adapt accordingly.
• Take note of communication styles—some colleagues may prefer email, while others might favour in-person discussions.

Master the Art of Active Listening

You don’t need to have all the answers right away. In fact, your best approach is to listen, learn, and absorb as much as possible before making major contributions. Listening actively helps you understand company dynamics, expectations, and how you can add value.

Learn from Your Colleagues

Every company has its own way of doing things. By listening and asking the right questions, you can quickly get up to speed.

Key Actions:

• Take notes during meetings and training sessions.
• Ask thoughtful questions to deepen your understanding.
• Pay attention to workplace dynamics and communication styles.
• Show appreciation when colleagues share insights or offer guidance.

Show Initiative and Prove Your Value

While it’s important to learn the ropes, you should also look for opportunities to demonstrate your skills and contributions. Employers appreciate proactive employees who take ownership of their work and seek out ways to improve processes.

Identify Quick Wins

Early on, try to identify tasks or projects where you can make an immediate impact. Whether it’s streamlining a process, solving a minor issue, or suggesting a helpful tool, small wins add up and build your credibility.

Key Actions:

• Identify quick wins where you can make an impact early on.
• Volunteer for projects that align with your strengths.
• Seek feedback regularly to improve and refine your approach.
• Document your contributions so you can highlight them during performance reviews.

Manage Your Time Effectively

The first 90 days can be overwhelming, so mastering time management is crucial. Organising your tasks and setting priorities will help you stay on top of your workload. Poor time management can lead to stress, missed deadlines, and a negative impression on your manager.

Create a Routine

Establishing a daily routine will help you stay productive and focused. Plan your day based on urgent tasks, ongoing projects, and strategic goals.

Key Actions:

• Use task management tools like Trello, Asana, or a simple to-do list.
• Block out focus time to work on important projects.
• Avoid burnout by maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
• Learn to say no to tasks that don’t align with your priorities.

Seek Continuous Feedback

Constructive feedback is one of the best ways to grow in a new role. Don’t wait until your first formal review—actively seek feedback from your manager and colleagues. Being receptive to feedback will show that you are committed to learning and improving.

Turn Feedback into Growth

Feedback is only useful if you act on it. Use it as a tool to refine your skills, adjust your approach, and continuously improve.

Key Actions:

• Ask for feedback after completing key tasks or projects.
• Be open to constructive criticism and use it to improve.
• Show appreciation when receiving feedback to foster a positive relationship.
• Implement feedback quickly to demonstrate your ability to adapt.
• Stay Adaptable and Embrace Learning

Every workplace is different, and adjusting to a new company’s processes, culture, and technology takes time. Stay flexible and embrace continuous learning. The ability to adapt quickly is one of the most valuable skills you can develop.

Keep a Growth Mindset

A positive and flexible mindset will help you navigate challenges and setbacks. View obstacles as learning experiences rather than failures.

Key Actions:

• Be open to new ways of working and adapting to company systems.
• Take advantage of any training opportunities offered.
• Keep a growth mindset—challenges are opportunities to learn.
• Seek mentorship from experienced colleagues to gain deeper insights.

Navigating Office Politics

Workplace politics are inevitable, but knowing how to handle them can make your job easier. Pay attention to office dynamics and learn how to work effectively with different personalities.

Key Actions:

• Avoid gossip and unnecessary drama.
• Build alliances with positive and supportive colleagues.
• Maintain professionalism in all interactions.
• Focus on contributing to a collaborative and respectful work environment.

Conclusion

The first 90 days at a new job can be daunting, but with the right approach, you can set yourself up for long-term success. By understanding expectations, building relationships, showing initiative, and embracing learning, you’ll not only survive but thrive in your new role.

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References

Dai, G., De Meuse, K. P., & Tang, K. Y. (2013). The Role of Learning Agility in Executive Career Success: The Results of Two Field Studies. Journal of Managerial Issues, 25(2), 108-131. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/260284509_The_Role_of_Learning_Agility_in_Executive_Career_Success_The_Results_of_Two_Field_Studies 

Watkins, M. (2013). The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter. Harvard Business Review Press. Retrieved from https://hbr.org/2012/06/successfully-navigating-the-first-90-days