Set Yourself Up for Success: The Power of a 30-60-90 Day Plan in a New Job

You did it: you got through rounds of interviews and landed your first (or a new) job. Exciting, right? Well, yes and no - we'll be honest here. We know that starting a new job can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming - which is why we are here to help set you up for success when it comes to onboarding.

One tool that can be helpful in this process is a 30-60-90 day plan. If you haven't heard of it, don't worry - we'll explain the process and show you how to apply it effectively in your new role. Are you ready for a successful transition into your new role?

First things first: what is the 30-60-90 day plan?

The plan is a career development roadmap that lays out the goals and objectives you want to achieve in the first three months of your new job. Plus, it's a great way to set clear expectations and communicate your goals to your new employer, and it helps you stay on track and make the most of your first 90 days on the job. This strategy is not only about making a positive first impression, it’s about giving yourself a strong start as you embark on this new chapter in your career.

Now, let's get you started on your 30-60-90 plan!

1. The First 30 days:

Your only focus should be learning and getting up to speed with your new role. In short, you should be learning about the company, its culture and values, and the specific tasks and responsibilities of your position. It will also be beneficial to establish relationships with your colleagues and build a network of support within the company. Consider setting up brief “coffee chats” or introductory calls with various peers and team-members. Strong relationships are the foundation of success in any role

2. Next round, 30-60 days:

Your focus should be implementing all that newly gained knowledge. It’s time to put what you've learned into practice and start making an impact in your new role. Get yourself immersed in projects, delivering results, identifying areas for improvement, and more. In your plan, you can track these items by writing down what your goals are, when you will complete them and how you will measure your success.

3. Final stage, 60-90 days:

First off, congrats! The first three months in any job often comes with the biggest learning curve, and you are almost there. During the 60-90 day window, your focus should be scaling and expanding your impact. Look for new opportunities and additional responsibilities, decipher if any processes or systems have room for improvement, and lastly, identify ways to contribute to the company's growth and success.

As you navigate your first three months in your new role, remember to be a sponge: absorb as much as you can. Be curious, ask clarifying questions, and use your voice - don’t be shy!

The 30-60-90 plan is a fabulous tool for anyone starting a new job. Setting clear goals, establishing the groundwork, and communicating to your employer and mentor that you're striving to stay on track in the first three months in your new role. In short, the 30-60-90 plan is a great way to hit the ground running and make the perfect impression as you embark on your new role. Ready to get started? Check out our 30-60-90 day plan template here.