A new year brings new opportunities, and starting a new job is one of the most exciting ways to embrace fresh beginnings. It’s a chance to step into something new, showcase your strengths, and build momentum for a successful future. But let’s face it—the first 90 days can feel like a whirlwind.
The good news is, you don’t have to do it all at once. The key to thriving is focusing on the right things at the right time. Here’s how to make your first 90 days count and show your team they made the right choice in hiring you.
1. Set the Stage Before Day One
Your first impression starts long before your first official day. Take time to prepare by digging into the company’s mission, values, and culture. Review your job description again—this time with fresh eyes—and think about how your skills align with the responsibilities. This preparation helps you show up ready to contribute. It also shows your manager that you’re serious about hitting the ground running.
💡 Tip: If you’ve been sent onboarding materials or have access to any tools ahead of time, familiarize yourself with them. Knowing how to navigate the basics will help ease first-day jitters.
2. Take a 30-60-90 Day Approach
Breaking the first 90 days into phases makes it easier to focus your energy and measure your progress. A simple plan can keep you aligned with your goals and your manager’s expectations:
- First 30 Days: Focus on listening, learning, and observing. This is your time to soak up information about the company, the team, and how things work. Build relationships, ask questions, and take notes.
- Days 31-60: Start contributing. By now, you should have a clearer picture of your role and responsibilities. Take ownership of small projects, offer solutions, and start showing what you bring to the table.
- Days 61-90: Demonstrate impact. This is the time to highlight your progress and start collaborating on long-term goals with your manager. Use this phase to showcase your contributions and build momentum for what’s ahead.
💡 Tip: Share your plan with your manager early on. It shows initiative and ensures you’re aligned on what success looks like.
3. Build Connections That Matter
Relationships are everything. Take the time to connect with your colleagues and learn how your role impacts theirs. Building trust and rapport early on makes collaboration easier and creates a sense of belonging. Schedule one-on-ones with your teammates and key stakeholders. Use these conversations to understand their goals and challenges, and ask how you can support them. People will appreciate your genuine effort to get to know them.
4. Be Open to Feedback
Feedback is one of the most important tools for growth, especially during your first 90 days. Actively seek input from your manager and colleagues to fine-tune your approach and learn where you can improve. When feedback comes your way, take it with an open mind and act on it quickly. Your willingness to adapt shows that you’re committed to learning and contributing to the team.
💡 Tip: Don’t wait for formal reviews—ask for feedback regularly. A simple “How am I doing?” goes a long way in building trust and improving your performance.
5. Take Ownership of Your Learning
The first few months in any new role are a learning curve. Take charge of your development by fully engaging in training sessions, exploring resources, and asking questions. Don’t shy away from areas where you feel less confident. The more proactive you are about learning, the faster you’ll find your footing and start making an impact.
6. Show You Belong by Living the Company’s Values
Your first 90 days are your opportunity to align with the company’s culture and values. Pay attention to how leadership operates, how decisions are made, and how teams collaborate. Look for ways to embody those values in your own work. Whether it’s stepping up to help a teammate, being proactive in solving a problem, or showing positivity in the face of challenges, your actions will show that you’re not just a good hire—you’re a great fit.
The first 90 days aren’t just about learning the ropes—they’re about building trust, creating momentum, and setting the tone for your future. This is your chance to prove to yourself (and your team) that you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. Take it one step at a time. Be curious, stay open to feedback, and focus on building relationships that will set you up for success. Most importantly, remember that you were chosen for this role for a reason. Now it’s time to show them why. You’ve got this!
