Wouldn’t you agree that transitioning into a new job can be a lot to manage? Your first 90 days is critically important and is all about fitting into the company culture, learning new processes and procedures, and being able to adjust to your new workload. Making a great impression quickly is imperative!

1. Be Nice to People: Whether it is someone from the cleaning crew or a posh executive, everyone who shows up to your organization works together to make everything efficient. Building strong rapport with your team members will help you transition into your new role more smoothly. Remember to treat others with respect; you never know who could be your boss tomorrow, or who could be a good reference in the future!

2. Keep a Positive Attitude: You will be confused. You will be flustered. You will be discouraged. You will hit obstacles. Just remember this: Your employer selected you so be sure to express your enthusiasm and positive attitude daily. Enthusiasm is contagious and will not only help you build rapport with your new team members but will also show that you and your new employer made the right decision. Tip to maintain your enthusiasm: Note a small win from each day. These "win’s" can be as simple as something new you have learned or accomplished and as you build on those wins you will see how far you have come!

3. Manage Expectations and Set goals: Don’t fib about your skills! If your supervisor knows your true assets and skill levels, she will take your learning curve into consideration. Once you and your supervisor are on the same page as it relates to your starting point, make a point to establish some goals! The number one question you must ask your supervisor and gain agreement to: What does my Supervisor expect me to accomplish within the first 90 days? Being mutually clear on what your supervisor expects of you and what you can accomplish is critical. Build a plan, drive towards achieving those goals, you will be proud of your accomplishments and your manager will be impressed.

4. Volunteer for Assignments: Not only will stepping up to the plate without being asked provide you with a chance to work with someone new, but this habit is instrumental in how your fellow peers and supervisors view your initiative and willingness to add to the organization. Just be careful not to volunteer for too many assignments as you don’t want to become overloaded and not be able to meet your commitments.

5. Prioritize Your Work: It is critical to organize your day-to-day tasks by level of importance. It is also critical your supervisor agrees with what you believe to be your priorities. Ask questions, take notes, and confirm understanding.

6. Ask for a Mentor: An awesome way to become familiar with your new position and company is to seek out a mentor. After observing your team’s daily operations for a short period of time, ask someone you admire within your new organization to mentor you. They will be flattered and you will gain an opportunity to learn from an experienced peer while building a great new professional relationship.

Investing in a Lifetime of Success,

Angela Roberts