Much has been made about “the first 90 days” in a new job, and with good reason. There’s a strong case for the importance of impressions and how important they are to building good relationships and developing an understanding of the corporate (or departmental) culture.
When hiring decision-makers describe how important it is to hire a candidate who matches the work culture, they’re not overstating. In fact, fitting in at your workplace is critical to career growth, and being aware of this can help pave the way for future opportunities.
Your job during the first 90 days in a new position is to observe, listen and begin building relationships. Unless you are hired for your strong opinions, it’s a good idea to listen first. You can jump in more often as you learn how the company or department operates. Every company has a distinct way of conducting business and making decisions. This is something you need to know.
During the first 90 days on the job, your game plan should include observing communication at all levels, paying attention to what is being said and what is left unspoken.
For example, during team meetings, who gets everyone’s attention in the room? Is it the quiet listener or the person who talks the loudest? Who has the employer’s respect, and why?
These are the type of questions you need answered so you can learn how the company does business.
Fitting in depends on many things, including the skills you bring to your new employer, what you do to help the company succeed and how well you relate to people.
How well you relate to people can put you firmly on the path to success, or it can create barriers to career growth.
Find the most well-respected employee in the department and watch them. They can teach you about the company and corporate expectations.
Pay particular attention to informal and formal networks.
Here are some more ideas that can help you make the right impression during your first 90 days in a new job:
• Listen and ask questions. This will help clarify any misconceptions you have and communicate that you care about getting things right.
• You might be hardwired to jump in and share your opinions, but make sure the timing is appropriate. You may know the answers, but start slow. You want to be a team member, not a solo player.
• Run from people who bad-mouth the employer. The company you keep can be seen as an extension of what you believe.
• Keep a journal, and note the “ah-ha” moments — those insights you get as you interact with those at your new company.
• Make the effort to communicate with your boss and those who will impact your career; don’t wait for them to initiate communication.
I’d like to hear what you’ve learned during the first 90 days in a new job — the good and the bad.
