The first 90 days in your new job – how to make a great first impression

Starting a new job is exciting. It can also be somewhat nerve-wracking and daunting.

No doubt, you’ll be desperate to make a strong first impression and set the tone for your role in the team and the wider business.

Like many industries, the property sector is a people business, built on relationships and your first 90 days will set the stage for your entire career at the company.

Those first few hours, days and weeks will influence how your colleagues, clients and other stakeholders view you. Their perceptions matter.

Creating the right first impression can open doors. The wrong one can close them.

Much more than just looking smart or showing up on time, it’s about your attitude, ability to communicate and fit in seamlessly.

This blog post explores how to make a great first impression. From preparation to performance, we’ll cover practical steps that will help you get off to a strong start.

Before You Start

Making a great first impression in your new job starts long before you walk through the door. Preparation is key to starting off well.

Researching Company Updates

Understanding your new place of work will help you integrate more quickly.

You’ll probably already have a good feel for the company’s history, mission and values from your research as part of the recruitment process.

Beyond keeping an eye on their website insights and social channels, exploring industry news and wider media coverage, will keep you informed on day-to-day activity and help you understand the broader context of your role.

Preparing Your Mindset

Starting a new job is exciting, but many people feel a little apprehension as the first day approaches.

It’s important to spend time setting some personal goals for your role.

Think about what you hope to achieve in your first month, quarter, or year will help you prepare mentally.

Visualising success and break it into actionable steps will help you stay focused and motivated from day one.

Planning and Onboarding

Completing and submitting all your onboarding documents or requirements, will help remove stress and avoid any last-minute surprises as your first day approaches.

Knowing the logistics of where you need to be and who you’re meeting on day 1 is helpful.

If you’re starting a remote role, spending time setting up your workspace and making sure your tech is set up and working ahead of time, is crucial too.

Connecting with Your New Team

Building relationships early can make your transition in to a new job more seamless.

If possible, reach out to colleagues to introduce yourself.

If the property business you’re joining offers preboarding activities like training sessions or virtual meet-and-greets, take full advantage of these to start building connections with those you’ll be working alongside.

By taking these proactive steps, you’ll be well-prepared to make a positive and confident first impression when your first day arrives.

Making a Great Impression in your First Two Weeks

The first two weeks in your new property job are critical for establishing yourself as an engaging and valuable member of the team.

Introducing Yourself

Your first impression sets the tone for how colleagues perceive you. Be friendly, approachable, and proactive in introducing yourself.

It may be helpful to prepare a brief introduction, highlighting your professional background, a little about you personally and what excites you about your new role. This can help spark conversations and build connections.

Understanding Your Role

Clarity is crucial in the early days. It will be worth scheduling time with your manager to discuss your job responsibilities and expectations for the months ahead.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions and take detailed notes that you can refer to in the future. Being inquisitive demonstrates your eagerness to contribute effectively.

Building Relationships

Your colleagues will be your greatest resource as you settle in. Take time to get to know them, both personally and professionally. Join in conversations and participate actively in team meetings. Take advantage of any social activities and those ‘water-cooler’ moments. Building rapport early will help foster trust and collaboration.

Learning the Ropes

Make time to familiarise yourself with the company’s processes, tools, systems and any internal communications.

Completing any required training or onboarding sessions promptly will also help you hit the ground running. It shows initiative and a willingness to learn.

Focusing on these key areas, will help you quickly establish yourself as a positive and engaged team member, and set a foundation for long-term success.

Making a Great Impression in Your First Month

As you move past your first couple of weeks, and approach a month in your new role, it’s a great opportunity to really establish yourself in the business. To cement your position as a proactive, valuable team member.

Showing Initiative

Taking initiative demonstrates your commitment and drive.

If there’s an opportunity to add value to projects or support colleagues – either within your team or the wider business – grasp the opportunity. It’s a great way to demonstrate your capabilities, contribute to team goals and build goodwill.

Seeking Feedback

Feedback is essential for growth, especially in a new role.

Schedule regular check-ins with management to discuss your progress. You may also want to ask colleagues for their comments or observations.

Showing an openness to constructive criticism and feedback will show your commitment to doing your best and evolving in your role.

Setting Longer-Term Goals

Once you’ve settled in, you’ll need to start thinking beyond the day-to-day. Identify areas where your skills can add value to the team and company.

Work with management and business leaders to set achievable goals for the next quarter and beyond. Having goals in place will provide direction and motivation, and help you focus on making a meaningful, ongoing contribution.

Reflecting and Adjusting

It’s also important for you to take time to reflect on your first month.

Think about what’s been positive and where you’ve performed well. Consider the challenges you’ve faced, how you addressed them and where there’s room for improvement.

You can then use your own reflections, along with feedback and observations from colleagues to adjust your approach and adapt where necessary. This will show your willingness to learn, develop and improve.

Being successful in your first 90 days and creating a lasting, positive impression comes down to a combination of preparation, relationship-building, and proactivity.

Preparation is Crucial

Setting yourself up for success starts well before your first day. Research, planning and goal-setting will set a strong foundation and help you integrate seamlessly in to your new team and the business.

Relationship Building is Key

Establishing connections with your team mates and colleagues, as well as understanding the business culture are vital for collaboration and trust.

Proactivity will Demonstrate your Value

Taking initiative, seeking feedback and proactively learning will all highlight your commitment and ability to contribute.

Adaptability and Having a Growth Mindset

Reflecting on your early experiences and being open to feedback will shows your willingness to improve, an essential part of your long-term success.

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