How to succeed in your new role or a new job?

Congratulations!!

You have been promoted to a new role! Even if it is a new job, it is a “promotion” to a new role because you are expected to do more than you did in your previous roles.

How to succeed in your new role or a new job will be on top of your mind now.

Here are some tips for a smooth and successful transition and how to succeed in your new role or a new job.

1. Have a 30-60-90 Day Plan:

"The First 90 Days" by Michael D. Watkins is a comprehensive guide for professionals transitioning into new roles. The book focuses on helping individuals effectively manage the crucial, initial phase of a new job, whether it's a promotion, a lateral move, or to an entirely new organization. Watkins emphasizes that these early days are pivotal for setting the stage for success in the long term.

The central theme of the book revolves around the importance of accelerating your learning curve and making a positive impact quickly. Watkins introduces a systematic framework that provides a roadmap for successfully transitioning into a new role. Here's a summary of the key concepts and stages outlined in the book on how to succeed in your new role or a new job:

1. Preparation: Before starting the new role, thoroughly research the organization, the industry, and the specific challenges and opportunities you'll face. Develop a clear understanding of the expectations and clearly define your early priorities.

2. Accelerate Learning: In the first few weeks, be in constant learning mode. Understand the organization's culture, norms and unwritten rules. Build relationships with key stakeholders and seek feedback on your progress.

3. Match Strategy to Situation: Analyze the situation you're stepping into and determine the appropriate strategy. Decide whether to turn around a struggling team, sustain success, start something new or maintain stability.

4. Secure Early Wins: Identify opportunities for quick, visible wins that can demonstrate your value to the organization. These wins build credibility and set a positive tone for your tenure.

5. Negotiate Success: Set clear expectations and negotiate your objectives with your superiors. Align your goals with theirs to ensure a shared vision of success.

6. Build Your Team: Assess the existing team, identify gaps and make necessary adjustments. Invest time in building strong relationships with your team members and fostering a collaborative environment.

7. Create Alliances: Form alliances with key stakeholders across the organization. Strengthen your network and enlist support for your initiatives.

8. Manage Yourself: Stay self-aware and manage your personal transition effectively. Develop a work-life balance and cultivate resilience to handle the challenges.

Based on my corporate experience of 23 years and the experience of coaching 100s of senior leaders, here are a few more tips I would like to share with you for succeeding in your new role or a new job.

2. Spend Time with the Team Before Making Major Changes: Resist the urge to overhaul processes immediately. Spend time observing how things work and discussing ideas with your team. This not only builds trust but also ensures that changes are well-informed and accepted by those directly affected.

3. Spend Time with Your New Boss and Boss's Boss: Engage in open conversations with your superiors to understand their expectations and align your goals with theirs. This demonstrates your commitment to a seamless transition and a shared vision for success. If you are working remotely, it is extremely important that you try to meet them in-person and build a rapport.

4. Spend Time with Peers: Foster collaboration by proactively engaging with your peers. Understand their challenges and explore opportunities for cross-functional support. This camaraderie can lead to collective problem-solving and innovation. Trust and collaboration are the cornerstones of effective leadership. Building relationships will help you understand diverse perspectives and establish a supportive network.

5. Integrate Technology Strategically: You must recognize the technological advancement in your industry. Identify areas where technology can optimize processes without compromising human interaction. Striking the right balance enhances efficiency and ensures a people-centered approach.

6. Share your Personal Values: As a new leader, one crucial area to focus on is clarifying your values and defining a clear mission. Your values serve as the foundation of your leadership style, shaping your decisions and interactions with authenticity. Embracing these guiding principles ensures that your leadership journey is not only effective but also aligned with your core beliefs and aspirations. It will also help you align with the values and vision of the new organization. Work with a Leadership Coach, if you are not clear about your Personal Core Values and Purpose.

Below are some additional ideas for knowing your team better and build a relationship.

· Storytelling: Gather the team to share their most amusing work-related stories. This not only generates laughter but also humanizes everyone and showcases shared experiences.

· Team Trivia: Host a trivia session focused on fun facts about team members. Team members can guess who the fact belongs to. It's a lighthearted way to learn more about each other.

· Lunch and Learn Sessions: Organize casual lunchtime sessions where team members take turns to share about their hobbies, interests or experiences. It's a great way for the team to connect on a personal level and discover shared passions.

I wish you the best in your new role. If you wish for me to support you and be your accountability partner in your new role, please reach out to me for a free initial discussion.

Author: Johncey George is a Professional Certified Coach from International Coaching Federation (ICF - PCC). Johncey has done 1000+ hours of professional coaching after spending 23 years in various corporate leadership roles. He has helped several leaders help through their career transitions.