Your First 90 Days Determine Your Next 900: How to Start Strong in a New Role

Your first 90 days in a new role are crucial—they set the foundation for your long-term success. It’s not just about understanding your job responsibilities; it’s about establishing relationships, building credibility, and making an impact. Here are 9 essential strategies to prioritize in your new role to ensure you hit the ground running.

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1. Build Real Relationships

Networking is not enough. Genuine connections are what create strong and enduring professional relationships.

• How to do it:
  • Schedule informal coffee chats or one-on-one meetings with colleagues.
  • Listen actively, focusing on their challenges, experiences, and ideas.
  • Show genuine curiosity about their roles and perspectives.

Building relationships based on trust and authenticity will pay dividends throughout your career.

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2. Master the Unwritten Rules

Every workplace has its unique culture and hidden dynamics. Understanding these unwritten rules is your secret weapon.

• What to observe:
  • Decision-making processes: Who holds influence, and how are choices made?
  • Reward systems: What behaviors and outcomes are celebrated?
  • Information flow: How does communication happen—formally and informally?

By becoming fluent in the company’s culture, you position yourself as someone who “gets it.”

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3. Get Crystal Clear Expectations

Clarity is key to achieving success in a new role. Don’t make assumptions about what’s expected.

• Action steps:
  • Ask your manager directly: “What does success look like at 30, 60, and 90 days?”
  • Document these expectations and refer to them often.
  • Create a plan to not just meet but exceed these goals.

When you deliver on clear objectives, you quickly build trust and credibility.

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4. Secure Quick Wins

Quick wins demonstrate your value and create positive momentum.

• Focus on:
  • Immediate impact: Identify and solve small problems that deliver visible results.
  • Helping others succeed: Assist teammates in achieving their goals.
  • Building credibility: Show that you’re proactive and capable.

These small victories establish you as a valuable asset early on.

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5. Chase Feedback Relentlessly

Feedback is your fast-track to improvement. Don’t wait for formal reviews; proactively seek input.

• Questions to ask weekly:
  • “What’s working well?”
  • “What could I do better?”
  • “Where should I focus my efforts?”

Regular feedback not only helps you grow but also shows your commitment to excellence.

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6. Understand the Bigger Picture

Your role doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Understanding how your work fits into the larger context is essential.

• Learn about:
  • Company goals: What are the overarching objectives?
  • Team objectives: How does your team contribute to these goals?
  • Client success: How does your work impact the end user or client?

When you understand the bigger picture, you make smarter decisions and align your efforts with what truly matters.

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7. Listen More Than You Talk

Your first 30 days should be all about learning.

• What to do:
  • Take detailed notes during meetings and conversations.
  • Ask thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest and engagement.
  • Observe patterns in communication, decision-making, and problem-solving.

Listening more than you speak helps you gain insights and avoid missteps.

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8. Show Strategic Initiative

Don’t just complete tasks—understand their significance and look for ways to improve.

• Focus on:
  • Why it matters: How does this work contribute to broader goals?
  • How to improve it: Are there opportunities to enhance efficiency or quality?
  • Where it’s heading: What’s the long-term vision for this project or process?

Strategic thinking sets you apart as someone who adds value beyond the basics.

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9. Build Your Brand

Every interaction in your first 90 days shapes your reputation.

• Key elements of your brand:
  • Value: Showcase your skills and contributions.
  • Potential: Demonstrate your willingness to learn and grow.
  • Attitude: Approach challenges with positivity and determination.

Remember, your reputation will stick. Make every moment count.

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Why These 90 Days Matter

The habits, relationships, and reputation you establish in your first 90 days will influence your next 900. By prioritizing genuine connections, cultural understanding, quick wins, and strategic thinking, you lay the groundwork for long-term success.

Pro Tip: Track your progress with a 90-day plan, regularly revisit your goals, and celebrate your achievements. A strong start is your ticket to a thriving career.