Starting a New Job? Here's a 90-Day Plan in 5 Steps

READING TIME - 5 MINUTES

Starting a new job is equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking.

You’re eager to make a strong impression, learn the ropes, and prove you were the right hire.

But without a clear plan, those first 90 days can quickly become overwhelming.

Your first three months on the job set the tone for your success.

They’re your opportunity to build relationships, understand your role, and showcase your value.

The problem? Most people dive in without a plan, hoping to “figure it out” as they go along.

Let me save you the trial-and-error.

In this newsletter, I’ll share a 5-step 90-day plan to help you hit the ground running in your new role.

Step 1: Get Clear on Expectations (Day 1-30)

Your first priority is understanding exactly what success looks like in your new role.

Ask Questions: In your initial meetings with your manager, clarify your key responsibilities and deliverables. Ask, “What does success look like for me in 90 days?”
Understand the Why: Learn the big picture. How does your role contribute to the company’s goals? This insight will help you prioritize tasks and align with your team.
Establish Communication: Find out how your manager prefers to communicate—weekly updates, emails, or quick Slack messages—and stick to it.

Tip: Use the first 30 days to observe, listen, and take notes. The goal here isn’t to shake things up but to fully understand the lay of the land.

Step 2: Build Key Relationships (Day 1-60)

Success in any job isn’t just about what you do—it’s also about who you know.

Identify Stakeholders: Figure out who your key collaborators are, both inside and outside your department.
Schedule Intros: Take the initiative to set up short, informal meetings with teammates and stakeholders. Ask about their roles, priorities, and how you can support them.
Show Interest: During these conversations, focus on listening and learning. Building rapport early will pay off when you need their help down the line.

Example: “I’m excited to be working with you.

Can you share a little about your role and how our teams typically collaborate?”

Step 3: Learn the Systems and Processes (Day 1-45)

Every workplace has its own way of doing things, and mastering these early will make your life easier.

Understand Tools: Familiarize yourself with the software, platforms, and tools the company uses.
Document Processes: Take notes on workflows and team protocols. This will not only help you remember but also show you’re proactive.
Ask for Training: Don’t hesitate to request training or guidance. It’s better to ask now than struggle later.

Reminder: Being curious during this phase isn’t a weakness—it shows initiative.

Step 4: Identify Early Wins (Day 30-60)

Nothing builds credibility faster than delivering results, even small ones.

Pick Low-Hanging Fruit: Look for quick wins that align with your role’s goals and make an immediate impact.
Collaborate: Partner with others to achieve these wins, demonstrating you’re a team player.
Celebrate Success: Share your progress with your manager to reinforce your value.

Example: “I noticed we could automate part of this process, and it saved us 10 hours a week. Here’s how I approached it…”

Step 5: Create a 90-Day Recap and Plan (Day 60-90)

Your final step is to show you’re not just fitting in but also thinking ahead.

Prepare a Report: Summarize your contributions, what you’ve learned, and how you’re planning to add value moving forward.
Propose Initiatives: Suggest new ideas or improvements based on what you’ve observed.
Align with Leadership: Share your plan with your manager to ensure it aligns with team priorities.

Tip: A strong 90-day recap leaves a lasting impression, positioning you as someone who’s not just effective but also forward-thinking.

Here is an example from one of the jobs I transitioned into:

Starting a new job can feel daunting, but having a plan makes all the difference.

These five steps will help you navigate your first 90 days with confidence, build a solid foundation, and set the stage for long-term success.

The secret?

Consistency and curiosity.

The more intentional you are in these first three months, the better equipped you’ll be to thrive in your new role.

So, are you ready to start strong?

Let’s go make those first 90 days count!

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