First 100 days in a startup - avoid these 6 common mistakes!

So, you've joined a startup! Great! You've left a big(ger?) organization for a smaller team because you want to make an impact and create a difference. I did that last year when I joined Programming Hub too! While the excitement is great, it is also time to share my own experiences and call out where one should be careful. The excitement of joining a startup can lead to over enthusiasm. Many professionals take on too much too soon and find themselves overwhelmed by the six-month mark. Today, let's explore common mistakes made in the first hundred days and offer strategies for a more sustainable approach.

Mistake one: over committing without understanding the landscape. Don't dive into multiple projects without knowing the startup's current position, priorities, market dynamics, and internal capabilities. Instead, spend your first weeks learning as much as possible. Understand the company's products, market positions, and team capabilities. This way, you'll build a solid foundation that guides your actions instead of making assumptions or rushing for quick wins.

Mistake two: prioritizing actions over relationships. Focusing only on tasks and KPIs can lead to neglecting relationship building within the company and with key stakeholders. Balance your eagerness to deliver results with the need to build internal relationships. Spend time with people at lunch, in their offices, or on video calls. Success in roles involving P&L, marketing, and sales relies heavily on collaboration and support from various departments. Invest time in understanding your colleagues' challenges and perspectives. Even better, help them succeed in their own tasks to create strong bonds.

Mistake three: ignoring the startup's culture and pace. Using a one-size-fits-all approach from past experiences without adapting to the new company's unique culture and pace is a big mistake. Every startup has its own rhythm and way of doing things. Adapt your working style to fit in your new environment, be open to learning and flexible in adjusting your methods. It's important to understand the culture and blend in, as it is crucial for driving success.

Mistake number four is focusing only on long-term strategies without seeking quick wins. These quick wins build momentum and credibility. It's essential not to overcommit, but to balance quick wins with your overall strategy.

Mistake number five is failing to set clear priorities. Taking on too much leads to underperformance. To avoid this, define and communicate your priorities. Not everything can be a top priority, so focus your efforts where they'll have the most impact.

Mistake number six is not seeking feedback or being open to criticism. Operating in a silo can cause you to miss opportunities for growth. Actively seek feedback from others and use it constructively to adjust your approach. Embrace the rapid iteration and adaptation of the startup ecosystem. Generative AI has changed how we do things in big ways, and it will keep changing.

To summarise, he first hundred days in a startup role are crucial for setting the tone of your tenure. Avoid overcommitment or underperformance by emphasizing learning, relationship building, and strategic prioritization. Acknowledge common mistakes and adopt a balanced approach to navigate the initial months successfully. This will lay a solid foundation for sustained impact and growth in your new role. I hope this helps you!

Create a strong new position and a fresh image for yourself. Aim for a clear, long-term career growth in your new organization!

Do you want to discuss your specific challenges or so? Please do write in the comments section or even reach out! Happy to help!

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