Understand the Unwritten Rules
Your job description outlines your tasks, but your success often depends on understanding the company culture. This is about observing the 'unwritten rules' of the workplace. Notice how colleagues communicate: Are meetings formal or collaborative? Is
instant messaging preferred for quick questions, or is email the standard? Pay attention to the office rhythm—when do people take breaks, and what is the general attitude towards working hours? Aligning with these cultural norms shows you are adaptable and a good fit for the team. This period is a two-way street; it’s also for you to assess if the company’s culture and pace match your expectations.
Clarify Expectations Early and Often
One of the biggest mistakes new hires make is assuming they know what success looks like. Don't wait for your 30, 60, or 90-day review to find out. In your first week, have a direct conversation with your manager. Ask them, “What does a successful first three months in this role look like to you?” This proactive approach eliminates ambiguity and gives you clear goals to work towards. By setting clear expectations early, you can measure your progress and ensure you are focusing your energy on what truly matters to your team and the business.
Become a Proactive Communicator
In a new role, silence is not golden. Managers value employees who communicate their progress and flag potential issues early. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; it shows you are engaged and eager to learn, not that you are incompetent. Provide regular updates on your tasks without waiting to be asked. Similarly, listen more than you speak in the initial weeks. Active listening during meetings and one-on-one conversations will help you build rapport and gain a deeper understanding of your role and the team's dynamics.
Actively Seek and Embrace Feedback
Constructive feedback is a gift for your professional growth. Don't wait for formal performance reviews to receive it. After completing a significant task, ask your manager or a senior colleague for their thoughts. You can say something like, “I’d appreciate your feedback on the report I submitted. Is there anything I could have done differently?” This demonstrates maturity and a commitment to improvement. When you receive feedback, avoid becoming defensive. Instead, view it as a set of instructions to help you improve your performance and better align with expectations.
Build Your Internal Network
Your colleagues are your best resource. Making an effort to build positive relationships will make your integration into the company much smoother. Introduce yourself to people, ask them about their roles, and join in on team activities or informal chats. These connections are not just for social purposes; they form a support system that can offer guidance and insights. Don’t limit yourself to your immediate team. Getting to know people from other departments will give you a broader understanding of the organisation and how your role fits into the bigger picture.
Go Beyond the Job Description
Meeting the basic requirements of your job is expected. To truly secure your role, look for opportunities to add value beyond your core responsibilities. This could mean offering to help a colleague who seems overwhelmed, volunteering for a small project outside your direct duties, or identifying a minor inefficiency in a process and suggesting a solution. Taking initiative shows that you are a problem-solver who is invested in the company’s success. It signals to your manager that you are not just there to do the bare minimum, but that you are a proactive and valuable member of the team.
Document Your Achievements
Your 90-day review will be a key factor in the decision to confirm your employment. Don’t rely on your manager to remember all your contributions. Keep a running document of your accomplishments, positive feedback received, and challenges you've overcome. This record will not only help you prepare for your review meeting but will also build your confidence. Being able to clearly articulate the value you've added in your first three months provides concrete evidence that you are the right person for the job.
