You Did It! Now What?

Congratulations!

You made it past the interview process and landed the new position you’ve been eyeing.
It’s time to create a notable first impression and set up habits that will lead to ongoing
opportunities within the company. Although the following tips are crucial the first few
months on the job, carrying them through beyond 90 days is just as important.
Seek a Mentor
A mentor is a valuable asset to have when learning the ropes of a new company culture.
Seek a mentor who has once held the position you’re in now, and they can help guide
you. Gracefully accept their tips and advice on how they did things in the position, then
make the position your own and leave your own mark on the company. The most
important aspect of a mentor is forming a long-lasting bond that is mutually beneficial.
Be Willing to Go the Extra Mile
It goes without saying that showing your employer you’re willing to go the extra mile for
the greater good of the team will get you noticed. By establishing your willingness to stay
late, take control on projects, be a team player and prove your worth in the first few
months on the job, it will be clear you’re someone they want on their team in the future.
Avoid Office Cliques
Office cliques and office politics can sometimes lead you down the wrong path. It’s never
good to be associated with any kind of negativity, so avoid it at all costs. Be polite and
friendly when confronted with gossip, but always decline to participate.
Participate in Team Bonding
Participating in team bonding will allow you to form relationships and comradery with
your colleagues, proving further that you’re a team player in all aspects. If invited to an
office kickball game or even an after work happy hour, join in and put your best
professional foot forward.
Be Accountable for Mistakes
Mistakes are inevitable, especially the first 90 days on the job. The best way to recover
from them is to be accountable and learn from them. There’s always a learning curve
associated with a new job, so don’t be too hard on yourself when mistakes are made.
Make Short-Term Goals
Make short-term goals for yourself starting on the very first day. By the end of your first
90 days, your career path should be clear to you. Do you want to stay in this position for
the long-term, or work towards climbing up the ranks? These are questions you should
have answered 90 days in.

Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask too many questions. The clearer your job description is to you, the
more you can excel at it. No one will assume you have all the answers right away; it takes
time to get adjusted to a new role and new companies. Stay on your toes and ask the
questions you need to be great at your job.
Get Involved
Get involved. Introduce yourself. Stay motivated, learn, listen, observe and perform. The
first 90 days on the job is the time to form team bonds, show what you have to offer and
let your hard work and talent speak for itself. Remind your employer why they wanted to
hire you in the first place.
Stay Organized
Organization is a large factor in achieving success. Without staying organized, you can
get in your own way and sabotage yourself on deadlines or other commitments. Find a
rhythm and keep yourself accountable, especially in the first few months while you’re
just getting started.
Leave Your Comfort Zone
This is one of the best pieces of professional – and personal – advice. Get uncomfortable
and push yourself to be the best you can be.