Start Your New Job the Right Way

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A new job is stressful. You’re not sure what’s expected of you or how to prove yourself. Here are three things you can do to increase your chances of success:

  • Plan your own onboarding process. Take responsibility for learning what you need to. Work with your manager to identify people you should get to know, locations you should visit, and products and services you should be familiar with.
  • Give advice. Because you’re still technically an outsider, offer your perspective on how the business is run and the key challenges it faces. Do this in a humble way so as not to offend.
  • Get an early win. Set one or two short-term goals that you can achieve early on. These should stem from your unique perspective and experience.

Adapted from “Breaking into a New Company” by Ron Ashkenas.

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