WHAT TO DO AT YOUR FIRST 90 DAYS AT WORK

Congratulations, you’ve landed a new job! You’re excited and ready to hit the ground running. But now that you have the job, what are you supposed to do next? 

The first ninety days on the job are a wonderful opportunity to impress your boss and create a strong, positive reputation among your coworkers – and even put yourself in the running for promotions and raises! 

However, this is often seen as the time you need to prove yourself, and it’s important to demonstrate why you’re the right person for the job.

In order to create the right first impression, you need to make the most of this critical time. To support you in this, here are 7 ways to make the most of your first ninety days on the job. 

 

1. Know what’s expected

When you show up for a new job, you should always be fully prepared. Make sure you have everything you need before arriving at the workplace.

When you start the job, the first thing you need to do is get all the information about the job and what is expected of you. 

If you don’t have an initial meeting with your boss, arrange to sit down with them during your first week to discuss what their expectations are. 

Even if you have a clear idea of the job role itself, discussing this in more depth gives you the chance to ask any questions and to fill any gaps in your knowledge. It also shows you are eager to learn, as you get to ask for extra training or support if you think you need it.

 

2. Develop a work plan

Now that you know what’s expected of you, you can start preparing a work plan for your first 90 days. Making this type of plan can set you up for success. 

To make your plan more actionable, you can also break it down into 30, 60, and 90-day segments. Each section should include your biggest priorities and goals you hope to achieve during this time, taking the company’s key KPIs into accounts. 

If you plan properly, making a plan like this will help you make a positive first impression on your employer and showing that you’re willing to work hard and take your tasks seriously. 

 

3. Connect with others

Another important part of the first 90 days of a job is connecting with your team. This includes your coworkers, bosses, and anyone else you work with. 

Make sure you take the time to embrace others and get to know people. Doing this will also help you figure out what the values of the company are so you can be sure it’s a perfect match.

 

4. Learn as much as you can

The first few months of a new job are the time to listen, learn, and ask questions so you can absorb as much information as possible about the role and company. 

Make sure you’re talking to your colleagues about their responsibilities and how they fit in with yours, as well as how the company operates overall. 

Being able to remember this information will show your new employer that you’re taking your role seriously and are taking an interest in all aspects of the job. It can also help you form professional relationships with your new coworkers. 

 

5. Be proactive

You should always be proactive in asking for feedback and managing your professional development at work. This is particularly true in a new job, as first impressions count. 

Try and ensure that your managers see that you’re willing to take on additional tasks and ask for more responsibilities, as this will prove that you’re a team player and that you’re willing to take the initiative. 

Additionally, if your manager hasn’t set up reviews for this period, you should speak to them and set these up yourself so you have the opportunity to discuss your progress and ask questions. 

 

6. Go the extra mile

Sometimes it isn’t enough to just do your job. If you want to show your skills, you might want to go the extra mile and become the “go-to” person at your workplace. 

There are a number of things you can do to make this happen. One way is to arrive early or stay late some days to show your dedication. You can also show that you’re accountable for your tasks and commit to finishing them no matter what. 

 

7. And finally, just be your best self

Lastly, always show enthusiasm, and a desire to learn during this period. Although you might be busy, the most important thing you can do is project a positive image to those around you.

The first 90 days of a job aren’t easy. It’s a big transition, but showing positivity makes it easier for your coworkers to warm to you. It will also show that you’re passionate about the job and want to learn as much as you can. 

Congratulations on taking initiative and being proactive in your new position. Keeping these goals in mind, you are sure to make a great and lasting first impression. 

 

By following these tips you will not only make your boss glad to have hired you but also put yourself in a strong position within your new company. We hope now you feel prepared to take on all the challenges you might face at your new job!

 

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