You’ve done it. You’re in. They didn’t notice your odd socks or the butter stain on your shirt. But what next? Don’t rest on your laurels, it’s time to impress in your new job. You’ve got to deliver and quick.
When starting a new job, we think you’ve got two months, at best, to show that you can fit in culturally and perform your tasks effectively and on time. Don’t lose your sense of urgency in your new role, keep on your toes and tread carefully.
Here’s a 5-point plan to nurture the good impression you made at interview through your probationary period:
- Firstly, get to know the stakeholders in your future and get them to trust you. Trust will only be built, if you get to know them on a personal level. Book out diary time to lunch or drink with them after work. This is key to consolidating their cultural buy-in of you. Everything else rests on this.
- Secondly, ask your boss, how he/she thinks you’re coming along in your new role. This can only really impress. It’s better to know sooner than later if things are awry and by taking the initiative you’ll show that you’re proactive, and by taking the onus away from your boss having to make an awkward approach to you if things aren’t great will make them feel more comfortable with you as an employee.
- Thirdly, sealing some quick wins is a sure fire way to win hearts and prove your worth to the firm. If you’re seen to be someone that has solutions to problems that have been around for some time, you’ll be seen as great value.
- Fourthly, be confident, friendly and open. You’re in a fantastic place as a new starter in a firm, aloof from all the politics and goings on. So maximise this detachment by always being someone who’s good to be around. Be positive about your new role and your colleagues as well as the company and colleagues you’ve left. People like people who like people. And setting your stall out early on in this way will make you much more approachable and fast track your cultural induction.
- Finally, nail your colours to a business critical project as soon as you can. It will not only provide you with a platform to shine and be visible to the business but also give you something to get your teeth into and make you feel settled. Good luck and congratulations on your new job.
