Surviving your first 100 days

14 May 2007 17:14  [Source: ICIS news]

CAREERS

First 100 days in the chemical industry - how to survive

You've landed the perfect job and you think you've made it. Not quite. Scott Beagrie explains what you need to do to establish yourself in your first post and how to set the scene for long-term success in your career.

It is generally accepted that the initial months in your first role are the most testing, in terms of whether or not you will succeed. But, a willingness to adopt survival tactics and follow a few clear guidelines should see you through the first 100 days. And, if you make a major commitment to the position, it could even lay the groundwork for the rest of your career.

Where do I start

Starting off on the right foot begins well in advance of your actual first day. Make full use of information sources such as corporate websites, company reports and industry publications to learn about the company's procedures and operations. Your goal should be to know everything possible about your role and the company by the time you walk through the door.

Get orientated

Make sure you arrive early on day one. Expect to take part in a comprehensive induction process, which could last several days. You may be given a stack of documents, including a company handbook, which you should read. Make the most of any opportunity to ask questions, and as you tour the building, mentally note the location of everything. During the first few weeks, be prepared to feel disorientated or unchallenged - and even for the job to not live up to your expectations.

"You may not realise it, but confusion and, sometimes, a degree of disappointment that things are not quite what you expected are all part and parcel of starting a new job," explains Carl Gilleard, cheif executive of the UK's Association of Graduate Recruiters.

Pay attention to protocols

Most workplaces have their own unwritten rules and cultural taboos, and it is just as important that you get to know and observe them as it is to adhere to formal company policies and procedures.

Search out individuals who can provide valuable insight about the people and politics of the company, as well as the inside track on how things actually work. Keep your eyes and ears open. Watch how others conduct themselves and alter your behaviour to match.

Manage expectations

It goes without saying that building a good relationship with your manager is crucial to fitting in and successfully surviving the first 100 days. Establish at the outset what their expectations are of you during this make-or-break period.

Proactively seek opportunities to show that you have an appetite for learning, as this may lead to you being given early responsibility. Talk to your boss regularly to find out what they think of your work and progress.

The next 100 days

Once you have shown that you are absolutely on the ball and are making a significant contribution in your role, maintain your credentials further by consistently matching or exceeding expectations in every task. Attend seminars, conferences and workshops for fresh ideas and practices and to hear about the latest thinking and trends.

Always be alert to new learning experiences and continue to broaden your skills and competencies via training and ongoing professional development.

What do new starters overlook?

Starting a new job is a unique experience for everyone, but other people in your organisation will understand how you feel. So, don't be afraid to ask questions and say if you don't understand something.

• Be realistic about what the company can do for you. Be assertive - but not aggressive - in your demands if you are really frustrated about being under-used.
• Listen and take notice of what you are told. Ask questions. Sometimes an induction can be all-singing, all-dancing and then the routine sets in and that's when the real challenges start.
• All jobs are a mixture - sometimes you are rushed off your feet and other times it is simply about numbercrunching and repeat business.

If you only do five things

1. Take notice of everything you are told
2. Ask lots of questions
3. Use every opportunity to show your potential
4. Learn to play the game
5. Keep an open mind and don't prejudge the job or others

For more info

Read New Kid on the Block: 10 Steps to Help you Thrive and Survive in the First 100 Days of Your New Job, by Frances Kay, Cyan Books, priced £12.99, ISBN 1904879527.

Also read 'How to project the right work image', www.personneltoday.com/25533.article.

• This article is taken from a feature, previously published in ICIS Chemical Business. The author, Scott Beagrie, is a careers correspondent for Personnel Today, a sister title to ICIS Chemical Business.

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