Your First 90 Days .. Nail it in The Hot Seat !

When you’re handed the keys to your first managerial role, it’s a moment of excitement—and maybe a little intimidation. Everyone’s watching, and you’ve got just 90 days to set the tone for your leadership.

Stepping into a managerial role for the first time can feel like entering a new dimension. Suddenly, you're not just responsible for your own work—you’ve got a team looking to you for guidance, direction, and (sometimes) the answers to questions you’re still figuring out yourself.

Your first 90 days are crucial. They can set the tone for how your team views you, how your leadership evolves, and, frankly, how much sleep you’ll be getting. So, how do you tackle this challenge and come out on top?

The good news? This is your chance to build trust, show your team what you’re all about, and create momentum for long-term success. Let’s skip the fluff and dive into actionable steps to make it happen.

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1. Listen With Purpose

We’ve all heard “listen to your team,” but let’s make this practical. In your first week, schedule one-on-one meetings with every team member. Start with simple, open-ended questions like:

• What’s going really well here?
• What would you change if you could?
• What do you need from me to do your best work?

Take notes and look for patterns. If several people mention the same pain points, you’ve got your first priority. For larger teams, consider using an anonymous survey tool like Officevibe to collect honest feedback without the filter.

2. Clarify the Rules of the Game

Your team needs to know what you stand for—and what you expect. Begin by establishing shared goals and clear expectations. This includes not just “what” needs to get done but “how” the team should work together.

Collaborate with your team to create a simple framework for success. For example, try using OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) to define what winning looks like and ensure everyone is aligned. Don’t forget to communicate what you bring to the table, too—your values, how you handle challenges, and how you define a productive team culture.

Early clarity avoids messy misunderstandings later.

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3. Secure Quick Wins

The quickest way to build credibility is to solve a problem your team cares about. It doesn’t have to be monumental—sometimes, small fixes earn big trust.

For example:

• Is there a tedious reporting process everyone hates? Streamline it or automate a part of it.
• Does the team feel underappreciated? Start recognizing individual achievements in weekly meetings.

These “quick wins” show you’re paying attention and ready to act. Bonus: they set the tone for a proactive, solution-oriented leadership style.

4. Build Your Internal Network

Your team isn’t the only group that matters. Strong relationships with peers and senior leaders across the organization will amplify your impact.

Spend time getting to know colleagues in other departments—especially those your team interacts with often. A quick coffee chat or informal Zoom call can reveal how your work overlaps and where you can collaborate. Take notes from these conversations; patterns will emerge that can help you align your team’s goals with broader organizational priorities.

5. Be Open About Your Learning Curve

Here’s the thing: no one expects you to have all the answers on Day 1. A little vulnerability goes a long way in showing you’re approachable and self-aware.

Share what you’re learning along the way, whether it’s about your team’s unique dynamics or the tools you’re mastering. Better yet, seek advice from a mentor who’s been in your shoes. Programs like MentorcliQ or internal mentorship initiatives can connect you with someone who can fast-track your growth.

To Sum it Up:

Stepping into a managerial role can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a rare opportunity to shape your leadership journey. By listening intentionally, clarifying expectations, securing early wins, and building strong relationships, you’ll not only survive but thrive in your first 90 days.

This is just the beginning. If you’d like tailored advice for your unique situation, send me a DM. Let’s make your leadership exceptional.

Before you go, don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter here, like this article, and repost it to help others navigate their first managerial role.

That was it....

See you in the next one.

Mostafa