Nailed It! Success in the First 30 Days in a New Job

Feeling a little nervous about starting your new job? New job jitters are normal. You must figure out the culture, personalities, your boss – that’s just the tip of the iceberg. It can feel overwhelming but being aware of traps that can trip you up can help you stay on firm footing.

How to Nail the New Job:

Don’t try to change everything immediately: You were hired to make an impact but instead of running around like a bull in a china shop, watch and listen – carefully. When you understand the “whys” behind the work functions and how your co-workers, employees, or bosses fit into that scheme, you’re more likely to make changes that add value. Unless there is something unethical or unlawful happening, fight the temptation to make immediate changes until you fully understand the ‘why’.

Don’t hide behind the “I’m New” status: You won’t understand how all things operate but take initiative and demonstrate determination as you tackle each new task you are given. Being new isn’t a reason to half-ass work assignments. 

Avoid the temptation to say “This is how we did it in my last job”: This is a huge turn-off. You’re in a new company with a new culture. Be wise enough to take what has worked well in the past and scale it to your current environment. Revolutionize the company, but have the right facts first. 

Take gossip with a grain of salt: Some people love to talk trash. There will those who want to give you the 411 on your new co-workers. Don’t assume that any of it is correct. Make up your own mind. This is especially important if you are managing a team. Judge your team based upon what you discover and not because of another person’s experience.  

Watch your frustrations: As the week comes to an end, be careful of the complaining trap.  There may have been frustrations that popped up during the week and all things may not have gone as expected. Maybe you don’t have your business cards or your email is still not working. These are valid items to address but get them corrected in a cordial, business-like demeanor so that you don’t sound like you’re the complainer.

Don’t impress only your boss: A new job can feel like it’s a continuation of the interview process because you’re still trying to impress people. And, you want to impress your boss most of all. However, it’s crucial to identify all key stakeholders. Introduce yourself to all people you see – inside and outside of your department, top to bottom, and don’t forget the cleaning crew. When you try to impress your boss only, you’ll alienate or diminish your relationship building efforts with your co-workers.

Don't fly solo: If you are in a leadership role, don’t be afraid to lead from the trenches. This is a great way to begin building your reputation early on as a key contributor. You were hired because the company wants results but how do you think you’ll be able to deliver on those results? It won’t be because of flying solo. You will need your team, customers, and clients working as a team. 

Don't think your boss will look out for you: Success is a two-way street. You own your career. Know what is expected of you and how your success in your first week, month, or year will be measured. If your boss doesn’t set up a time to speak in the first week, get on their calendar. From communication style to corporate culture, that first week sets the tone for success.

Don't be a co-worker from hell: It’s the unwritten rules that, if violated, make people go crazy. Who washes the dishes? Do you load the dishwasher? Are there communal food items? Where does the boss usually sit in meetings? Little items set people off faster than major ones at times. You can transform the culture later but first find out what the norm is and then strategically choose what to change.

Don't isolate yourself: You may work best on your own. That’s fine and nothing wrong with that. Don’t isolate yourself too much in your first few days. Keeping your head down and doing your work may sound like a good idea, but careful not to close yourself off from your team. Build your relationships and your alliances. You’ll need those alliances at some point.

Remember that you’re going to do a great job—that’s why they hired you! You will get over your new job jitters by staying calm and positive about your new job and the impact you will make.