What To Do In Your First 90 Days In A New Job
You went through a lengthy recruitment process. You met all the VPs and Hiring Managers and now you are presented with an offer. It took a month to iron out the details and you are ready to tender your resignation. What should you do afterwards? Here's what to do in your first 90 days in a new job.
1) Take a Break
If you have been working for the last 8 to 10 years at a company, you deserve a break. You can potentially negotiate your start date and take a break off for a vacation. Balance is the key to life and understanding how to take a vacation or break away from a computer screen can be a welcome refresher. You will start your new role more refreshed and ready to take on new challenges.
2) You started your new position? Now What?
The first few days on your new job will get you acquainted with the staff and your new co-workers. Training might be involved in specific equipment and product. Depending on the type of equipment you will be servicing, training might last 3-6 months before they let you on your own. Be humble. Remember, they hired you for a reason. It might seem overwhelming at first. New technology, people, and start. Think of it as a refreshing change from your previous work place. Enjoy the different culture that the company will bring and the chance to bring your new ideas to their workplace.
3) Meet with your Direct Manager and Set a 90 Day Plan
At some point during your first week or two on the job, you will have a 1-on-1 conversation with your immediate manager. They hired you to take the company in a different direction or put in quality management standards that they don't already have. Embrace this change. Set-up a 30 and 90 day plan of what you plan to achieve when you are on the job. However, know your boundaries and be careful not to step on other people's shoes. It's an interesting and challenging time in your career. Embrace the change and remember that you will do fine.
4) Don't Forget your Old Colleagues
You're old colleagues now become your peers. Keep in touch with them. They can be an invaluable resources to you in your future career. 5 years from now, there might be an opening at their old company. Without keeping and expanding your network, how would you know of these new opportunities. Remember, the key to a successful career is who you know, not how much you know.
If you want to talk more about what to do in your first 90 days in a new job, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.
