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In the early days of a new job, it’s beneficial to identify the “quick wins,” those tasks that can be completed easily in a short time frame and will visibly improve some part of the department or company. What are the “quick fixes” and what requires more time?
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This will help you connect the dots and see how your role relates to others within the larger organization. It’s also good to familiarize yourself with departments outside of yours and who the key people are in each area. Not only is this good information to know generally but it will likely help you in your responsibilities. Get to know everyone in your department and what they work on. Work relationships are invaluable when it comes to your career. Who are the people I would need to meet with to help me reach my goals? How does your position help the department and/or business achieve its goals? Furthermore, based on what you are learning and observing, which of your priorities are the most important? Take the time to discover the answers to these questions then draft a plan that will show how you intend to approach these priorities in the first 30, 60 and 90 days of the job. This question will help you connect the description of the job to the departmental objectives. Be prepared to listen and observe to not only learn what is being said but also what is unsaid. Revisit conversations and strike up new ones to help you clarify what needs to be done. Whether you already received this information during the interview process or not, it’s important to get a firm understanding of what the hiring manager and other members of the department identify as the departmental goals and objectives. What are the departmental goals and objectives?
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Here are a few questions to consider to help with your strategy. To create a 90-day plan, you want to think about the position you’re interviewing for and what would need to be addressed going in. With a one-pager indicating what you will prioritize in the first 90 days, you’re making it easier for the hiring manager to envision you in the role. Therefore, it’s beneficial to have a plan that will show you can do the job and alleviate any concerns your potential employer may have. It’s the standard grace period for new employees and the time during which first impressions are made. Want to make an even bigger impression on the hiring manager and differentiate yourself from the other candidates? Let him or her know what you will do your first 90 days on the job. Want to make a good impression during your interview with the hiring manager? Come in prepared to answer and ask thought-provoking questions.
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