Starting a new job is definitely a stressful time. Some people mistakenly think their worries are over once they’ve secured the position, but now is not the time to rest on your laurels. It’s likely your supervisor will be assessing your progress during the first few months on the job. While there will be a great deal to learn, you’ll also want to be assessing your surroundings and securing a fit for yourself within the organization. Creating a 30-60-90 plan to help strategically guide your first three months at your new gig is an effective method to start off on the right foot. This strategy breaks down each month into segments with a unique focus in order to build the groundwork for future success within the company. Keep reading to learn the advantages of having a 30-60-90 plan in place and some suggestions for writing your own.
About the Plan
This is the “30-60-90” plan and consider this like your road map for your first 90 days of your new job. It helps to show you the way of reaching the destination at which you’d like to arrive. Since you’re new to the territory, there’s only so much concrete planning you can implement. You can map out the general directions, but you don’t know what you may encounter along each step of the way. You’ll need to make adjustments as you come upon each new situation. Because you aren’t familiar with the office culture, the expectations of your supervisors or the ways in which your role affects others within the organization, your plan should concentrate on the kinds of things you would like to learn over the first few months rather than what you intend to implement.
30 Days
The first 30 days of your new employment is where the bulk of your learning will take place. You’ll need to learn the fundamental duties of your position, along with the particular manner in which corporate culture dictates it be done. That’s not to say you won’t be able to make changes that suit your style or that current routines are written in stone, but now is likely not the time to begin asserting your wishes. You’ll need to prove yourself and your worth to your co-workers. It’s imperative that you study the company’s mission statement and core agenda. Take note as to whether the guiding principles of the organization are being demonstrated through action.
Along with the big picture aspect of company culture, this stage of the game is also about interpersonal relationships. Take specific care to know what your boss expects of you and be sure to deliver accordingly. Get to know your colleagues. Ask questions and make it known that you’re open to learning. You’ll also need to reach out to your clients to determine their needs.
60 Days
Your second month on the job is when you can begin to insert your own style into the culture. Start to think of ways in which you can add your own specific skill set and strengths to what is currently happening among your work sector. Now is the time to take what you learned initially about your new workplace and to build upon it. Share your thoughts. Offer ideas. Volunteer to take on additional responsibilities, all the while ensuring you are meeting your superior’s expectations.
90 Days
This is the point in your 30-60-90 plan in which you’re probably starting to feel more confident in your role. It’s now when you can begin to allow your leadership abilities to shine. Share your ideas regarding important projects. Just be sure you’ve thoroughly thought them through with regard to the company’s values and take time to consider the effects of your ideas from implementation to completion. You don’t want to be caught unable to answer potential questions. Look to get involved with committees or boards within the organization as a means to network outside your department and to know what’s happening throughout the various company levels. Finally, assess just how far you’ve come since day one. Reward yourself for your leaps and bounds. Make corrections where necessary.
Having a 30-60-90 plan in place and being flexible enough to tweak it when necessary will have a profound impact on how well you settle into your new job. Being proactive in learning the lay of the land, getting involved and, eventually, demonstrating your strengths will lessen the frustration that can come with learning the ropes. You’ll feel at least and ready to fully contribute in no time.