The first 30 days: a downloadable template and guide

So, you have secured a new job and you are ready to begin working. Starting a new position can be an exciting yet stressful time. Not only are you learning new systems and processes, getting to know new people and navigating your way around a virtual workspace, but this is also the time where the experience and skills you sold to your new employer in the interview are expected to have an impact.

The first 90 days are crucial. You are still being assessed on whether or not you are a good fit for the job and, depending on your role, it is often expected that you will hit the ground running in terms of implementing change and driving improved processes or results.

To ensure you impress when you start a new role, whether you are working remotely or on-site, we have put together a customisable template for planning the first 30, 60, and 90 days in your new role.

Here is a guide to utilising our template and planning your first 30 days.

The first 30 days plan

Step 1. Check in with your manager

It is essential when you first start your role to have a meeting with your manager. While in the current landscape this is likely to be virtual, this is the time for you to get a better understanding of the business and how your role fits in with the overall priorities of the team. Be sure to ask about any upcoming projects you might be involved with, discuss your goals, and establish what outputs are expected from you over the first three months.

Step 2. Establish your priorities

To ensure you can get stuck in and make tracks in the business, it is key you identify and fully understand the business’ priorities and how your role supports them. When first starting, particularly if you are operating remotely, this might simply be ensuring you have access to and can acquire all of the equipment you might need in the role.

Step 3. Plan the actions you need to take

In the first month, we suggest you meet with your manager to discuss these priorities and get an overview of all projects you are going to be involved in. Following this, be sure to meet with any colleagues who you will be working with to get a better understanding of how you will work together. As you learn more about the ongoing and upcoming projects, everyone’s roles and responsibilities, and your place in the team, you should be able to identify areas where you can add real value identify changes you can make quickly that will have a positive impact.

The more you meet with your colleagues, the faster you will get to know the team dynamics and culture within the office, which is key for building strong professional relationships early. Find out who is who quickly, and schedule informal catch ups to get to know your team.

Step 4. Determine your deliverables

Analyse your current situation. Do you see any existing or potential problems you can influence or that you can contribute to solving? Based on these observations, create a list of your key deliverables to resolve these issues and highlight any opportunities for you to make a positive change within the team.

Use these deliverables to build a plan for your first 30 days. Create steps to achieve them, set delivery dates, and create milestones to help track your progress.

Step 5. Identify your development needs

As a new starter, you may need extra training or guidance when it comes to the specifics of the business. Key areas to consider when you first start include the marketplace your business operates within, the current customers and target audiences, the products and services being delivered, and key systems and processes for your role.

Click below for an example of our 30 days plan template and a blank copy for you to plan for success in your new role.