The first three months in a new role are crucial in setting the stage for long-term success. Whether you’re stepping into a leadership role or starting out at an entry-level position, how you navigate these early days can determine your trajectory within the company. In this guide, we’ll walk through actionable strategies to help you maximise your first 90 days and make a lasting impact.

Week 1-3: Building a Solid Foundation

In the first few weeks, your primary focus should be understanding the dynamics of your team and the broader organisation. Take the time to listen, observe, and ask questions.

Key Focus Areas:

• Understand the Culture: Every workplace has its unique rhythm. Pay attention to how decisions are made, how teams communicate, and what behaviours are rewarded.
• Clarify Your Role: Early on, meet with your manager to clarify the key expectations for your role. Ask questions like, “What are the immediate priorities?” and “How will success be measured in the first three months?”
• Absorb Information: Take notes in meetings, training sessions, and informal conversations. Gather as much insight as possible about the company’s operations, challenges, and opportunities.

Pro Tip: Schedule a brief one-on-one with your manager to review expectations and gain feedback on your initial impressions.

Week 4-6: Developing Relationships and Credibility

Once you’ve familiarised yourself with the landscape, it’s time to build relationships and start contributing.

How to Build Relationships:

• Introduce Yourself to Key Stakeholders: Proactively reach out to colleagues in different departments. These relationships will be invaluable as you collaborate across the organisation.
• Find a Mentor: Identify someone within the organisation who can offer guidance and insight. A mentor can help you navigate the politics of the workplace and provide feedback on your progress.
• Contribute Early Wins: Focus on small, achievable projects that demonstrate your competence. Whether it’s completing a task ahead of schedule or offering solutions in meetings, these early contributions can help you build credibility.

Pro Tip: Volunteer for a quick-win project to show initiative and start establishing a reputation for delivering results.

Week 7-9: Gaining Momentum and Refining Your Approach

By now, you should have a clearer understanding of your role and responsibilities. It’s time to dig deeper and start making a broader impact.

Strategies for Success:

• Refine Your Processes: Evaluate how you’ve approached tasks so far. Are there any improvements you can make to increase your efficiency? This is the time to streamline your workflows.
• Take Initiative: Don’t just wait for assignments—be proactive in suggesting improvements or offering new ideas. Employers appreciate individuals who can identify opportunities for growth.
• Seek Feedback Regularly: Regularly check in with your manager and colleagues for feedback. Ask for input on areas of improvement and apply their advice to your work.

Pro Tip: Keep a personal log of your achievements during this period. This will be helpful in future performance reviews or discussions about career growth.

Week 10-12: Reflecting and Planning for the Future

As you approach the end of your first 90 days, it’s time to reflect on your progress and plan your next steps.

Reflect and Plan:

• Review Your Progress: Take stock of what you’ve accomplished. Are you on track with the goals set during your first week? Identify areas where you’ve excelled and areas that still need improvement.
• Set Long-Term Goals: Now that you have a clearer understanding of the organisation and your role, start setting long-term objectives. How can you continue to contribute value? What skills do you need to develop further?
• Have a 90-Day Review: Schedule a formal or informal review with your manager. Discuss your progress and ask for feedback. Use this opportunity to set new goals for the next quarter and beyond.

Pro Tip: Show gratitude for the guidance and feedback you’ve received from colleagues and managers during your first 90 days. It reinforces your positive relationships and commitment to learning.

Final Thoughts: Setting the Stage for Success

The first 90 days in any job can be a whirlwind, but they are also a critical time for laying the groundwork for future success. By focusing on building relationships, gaining credibility, and delivering results, you’ll establish yourself as a valuable member of the team. Stay open to learning, and don’t hesitate to ask for feedback and advice as you continue to grow in your role.

Remember: the key to long-term success is consistency. The habits you form in the first 90 days will set the tone for the rest of your journey at the company.

If you have any further inquiries or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us.