The Surprising Power of Patience: Why the First 90 Days Matter More Than Day 1

In today's fast-paced business world, we often find ourselves caught in the debate between immediate results and long-term success. And nowhere is this debate more evident than in our expectations of new hires. Does expecting results on day 1 versus day 91 make a significant difference? The answer may surprise you.

Immediate Gratification vs. Sustainable Growth

When we hire someone for a short stint of 1-2 years, the unsaid expectation is for them to hit the ground running. After all, time is limited, and there's a need to see a quick return on investment. But is this approach always beneficial?

On the flip side, if we're bringing someone aboard with the vision of them being a pillar in the organization for 3-5 years or more, a 90-day ramp-up period seems reasonable. It's not just about patience; it's about setting the foundation for consistent and sustainable growth.

Delving Deeper: Implications of the 'Day 1 vs. Day 91' Mindset

1. Training and Development: With short-term employees, we often skip the deeper layers of training, focusing on immediate skill utilization. But imagine the potential unlocked when we invest in the long-term development of an employee we expect to stay with us for years!
2. Company Culture: A high-pressure, immediate-results environment can be electric, but it can also lead to burnout. On the other hand, giving employees 90 days to find their footing can cultivate a culture rich in patience, mentorship, and continuous learning.
3. Retention: High turnover is costly, both in monetary terms and the loss of institutional knowledge. A more extended integration period can improve job satisfaction, leading to higher retention rates.
4. Recruitment: The type of candidates we attract is deeply influenced by our onboarding expectations. While some thrive in pressure-cooker environments, many others are looking for a place where they can grow, learn, and make a lasting impact.
5. Quality of Work: Immediate results can dazzle, but there's something to be said about the thoroughness and sustainability that comes with giving employees more time. The solutions they come up with tend to be more thoughtful, innovative, and effective in the long run.

While there are roles and industries where immediate results are non-negotiable, it's essential to ask ourselves: "Are we setting up our employees for success or burnout?" The choice between day 1 and day 91 isn't just about patience; it's about the vision we have for our company's future and the legacy we want to leave behind.

Share this article with your network if you believe in building organizations that prioritize long-term success over short-term gains.