Starting a new job can be both exciting and challenging. This module will provide strategies for successfully transitioning into your new role and making a positive impact from day one.
a) Elements of organisational culture:
• Values and beliefs
• Communication styles
• Decision-making processes
• Work-life balance expectations
• Dress code and office norms
b) Researching company culture before you start:
• Review the company website and social media
• Read employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor
• Ask questions during the interview process
c) Adapting to a new culture:
• Observe and listen before making judgments
• Find a cultural mentor
• Be open to new ways of doing things
• Maintain your integrity while adapting
a) Why the first 90 days are crucial:
• Setting the tone for your tenure
• Building key relationships
• Demonstrating your value
• Learning company systems and processes
b) Phases of the first 90 days:
1. Prepare (before you start)
2. Orientation (first week)
3. Integration (first month)
4. Acceleration (second and third months)
c) Common pitfalls to avoid:
• Trying to change too much too quickly
• Failing to build relationships
• Not asking for help or clarification
• Neglecting to align expectations with your manager
a) Strategies for relationship building:
• Introduce yourself proactively
• Show genuine interest in others
• Offer help and support
• Be reliable and follow through on commitments
b) Key relationships to focus on:
• Your direct manager
• Team members and close collaborators
• Cross-functional partners
• Administrative support staff
c) Navigating office politics:
• Observe team dynamics
• Stay neutral in conflicts
• Be discreet and professional
• Focus on your work and building positive relationships
a) Importance of early goal-setting:
• Clarifies expectations
• Provides direction and focus
• Allows for early wins
b) SMART goal-setting process:
• Schedule a meeting with your manager
• Discuss organisational and team objectives
• Propose goals aligned with these objectives
• Agree on metrics for success
• Set timelines for review and achievement
c) Types of goals to consider:
• Learning goals (e.g., understanding processes, products)
• Performance goals (e.g., specific targets or projects)
• Development goals (e.g., skills to acquire or improve)
a) Proactively seeking feedback:
• Schedule regular check-ins with your manager
• Ask specific questions about your performance
• Seek input from colleagues and team members
• Be open to constructive criticism
b) Responding to feedback:
• Listen without becoming defensive
• Ask for clarification if needed
• Thank the person for their input
• Develop an action plan to address areas for improvement
c) Making adjustments:
• Be flexible and willing to change your approach
• Communicate changes to relevant stakeholders
• Monitor the impact of your adjustments
• Continue to seek feedback on your progress
a) Strategies for effective learning:
• Take thorough notes
• Ask questions when you don't understand
• Seek out training opportunities
• Find and study relevant documents and resources
b) Making early contributions:
• Look for quick wins
• Offer your unique perspective from previous experiences
• Volunteer for projects or tasks
• Share relevant skills or knowledge that can benefit the team
c) Finding the right balance:
• Prioritise essential learning
• Set realistic expectations for early contributions
• Communicate your progress regularly
• Be patient with yourself as you navigate the learning curve
Culture Research:
◦ Research the culture of a company you're interested in or have recently joined
◦ List 3 specific actions you can take to adapt to this culture
30-60-90 Day Plan:
◦ Create a detailed 30-60-90 day plan for your new (or ideal) role
◦ Include goals for learning, relationship building, and early contributions
Relationship Building Strategy:
◦ Identify 5 key relationships you need to build in your new role
◦ For each relationship, note:
▪ Why this relationship is important
▪ How you plan to initiate and develop the relationship
▪ Any potential challenges you might face
Goal-Setting Preparation:
◦ Draft 3-5 SMART goals you'd like to propose in your new role
◦ Prepare talking points to discuss these goals with your manager
Feedback Plan:
◦ Create a feedback plan including:
▪ When and how often you'll seek feedback
▪ Specific questions you'll ask to solicit useful feedback
▪ A template for tracking feedback and your responses to it
Learning and Contributing Balance:
◦ List 5 key things you need to learn in your new role
◦ Identify 3 ways you can make early contributions based on your existing skills and experience
By completing this activity, you'll be well-prepared to hit the ground running in your new role. Remember, the key to a successful transition is to be proactive, observant, and adaptable. Your attitude and approach during this period can set the tone for your entire tenure with the company.