New Role, Now What? 5 Ways to Stand Out While Fitting In

Congratulations, you landed that big job! Now what? With your first day looming just around the corner, here are a few ways to get started on the right foot and stand out of the crowd while fitting in.

1. Understand the Company Culture

Have meetings with those who report to you and those you report to and inquire about the company culture to understand where you fit in your new role. Ask your key leaders why they work for the company and how your role can be of value in supporting them and the company’s mission.

2. Implement a 90-day Plan

Document the details of what you want to accomplish in the first 90 days, this will help you keep a visual set of goals and objectives for yourself as it pertains to your new role. Setting goals for yourself and understanding the expectations that your new boss has for you will also help you to align your work priorities and alleviate potential pain points within your organization.

3. Keep Your Commitments

With all of the time we spend at work, it's important to develop positive relationships with all of our co-workers, managers, and bosses. Good relationships are based on trust. Keep your commitments. If you promise something, make sure you deliver on time. However, if you find yourself in a situation where something has changed and you cannot keep that commitment, be honest and communicate it. Open and transparent communication is the key to building long-lasting, positive relationships.

4. Show Enthusiasm/Be Visible

Show up early and be prepared for your day. Be active, visible, and present in your interactions with other members of your company. One of the main reasons why you were hired was because the hiring manager thought you were a great cultural fit, so you need to prove you fit into the company culture and make an effort to get to know your colleagues. This does not mean you have to be best friends with every person you work with, but there is no need to isolate yourself either. Attend company-sponsored events whenever possible.

5. Expand Your Role and Keep On Learning

Be a team player and look to get involved in more areas of the business. Be willing to share your expertise, but also be willing to learn new skills. If your company offers training courses, put your hand up to get involved. If your company doesn't offer training courses, you can still take the initiative and invest in your own growth and knowledge by paying for these courses yourself. You are a business-of-one, after all. It's your responsibility to keep proving your worth as an employee.

Starting off on the right foot and maintaining a professional image in your new job will help you build a reputation as someone who is a great team player and can be counted on to add value to the business. It will also make your work life a far better experience in the long run.