Congratulations – you’ve landed a new job!
It’s easy to think that after having aced the interview, negotiated a great package and set your start date that the hard work is done. Of course you should celebrate your victory, but don’t spend too long basking in the glory of your success because there is still work to be done; that is, actually succeeding on the job – which should not be taken for granted.
Most employers will operate a probationary period and you will need to negotiate the hurdle of passing this probationary period by proving yourself as a competent performer. Research by the Wynhurst Group shows that 22% of employee turnover occurs in the first 45 days. In other words – the first three months of the job are likely to be one of the most challenging periods of your tenure with an employer.
Since the first few months of employment are so challenging, it’s vital that you develop a strategy to help you through this period – and we have outlined three proven ways to help you succeed in a new job.
1. Socialize
A fascinating research paper in the MIT Sloan Management Review showed that the most effective new employees (those who got up to speed quickest and performed best) were the ones who socialized.Sounds too easy doesn’t it? Well, by socialize they meant that these star new starters were able to quickly build up effective information networks with colleagues. The research also found that employees who were seated in a central location had many more opportunities to collaborate and got up to speed faster as a result.
Even though it may seem intimidating at first, make sure to socialize effectively by making a list of the key people in your company who can help you and making sure that you meet all these people within the first two weeks. Also, be sure that you continue to nurture your relationship with them in the weeks that follow. Also, try and locate a role model/mentor who can educate you about company protocol, culture and performance expectations.
2. Know the expectations
Many larger companies will provide you with list of goals and expectations for the probationary period. However, in less well run companies, managers may be slow to do this, and if this is the case don’t leave your fate to chance; take action. Either ask your manager for performance goals or be proactive and write the goals yourself and propose them to your manager. Also, ask for an informal review of your performance halfway through the probationary period so you can put yourself back on course if things are going wrong.
3. Quick wins
Finally, try and make an early success, e.g. spot a problem and fix it and tell your boss. A classic study by AT&T has shown that employees who make quick wins tend to perform better and progress further up the business.
If you follow these three basic tips, you’ll maximize your chance of making a killer impression in your new role – and coasting through the probationary period.