How to ace the first 90 days of your new design job

A Strategic Plan for Success in Your New Design Role

Embarking on a new job, especially in a sizable company, can feel like navigating uncharted waters. The influx of new faces, processes, and copious amounts of information can be overwhelming. While the urge to immediately implement changes is strong, a measured and strategic approach is key. In this insightful blog post, Helen Tran, a Career Coach and former Design Lead at Shopify, shares a proven 3-part plan to conquer the initial 90 days at your new design job.

1. Learn: The Foundation of Your First 30 Days

Your initial month should be dedicated to immersing yourself in a learning mindset. Take deliberate steps to acquaint yourself with the company, its products, and most importantly, its people. Actively participate in meetings, posing questions that deepen your understanding. Engage with colleagues to grasp the intricacies of their roles and responsibilities. Immerse yourself in the company’s culture and values, deciphering the operational dynamics and your place within it.

2. Assess: Strategizing for the Next 30 Days

Having laid the foundation of knowledge, the subsequent 30 days are earmarked for a thorough assessment of your assigned project. Initiate conversations with your manager to outline your goals, creating a roadmap for success. Clearly define tasks, set timelines, and ensure a comprehensive comprehension of expectations. This phase is pivotal in aligning yourself with the overarching goals of the company and establishing a strategic trajectory for your contributions.

3. Focus: Execution in the Final 30 Days

The concluding 30 days are dedicated to the focused execution of your project. Channel your efforts into completing tasks with precision and excellence. Embrace collaboration and don’t hesitate to seek assistance when needed. Actively gather feedback, utilizing it as a catalyst for improvement. Celebrate your accomplishments and view mistakes as invaluable learning experiences. This phase is about refining your work, applying insights gained, and culminating your initial three months on a high note.

Strategic Success in Your First 90 Days

By methodically dividing your initial months into these three distinct phases, you ensure optimal utilization of your time within the company. Each phase, from learning and assessing to focused execution, contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the company and your integral role within its framework. As you approach the end of your first 90 days, you’ll emerge with a robust foundation for sustained success.

FAQs: Navigating Your New Design Role

Q1: How do I effectively learn about the company’s culture?

A: Actively engage in team-building activities, attend company events, and schedule one-on-one conversations with colleagues to gain insights into the company’s culture.

Q2: What if I feel overwhelmed during the assessment phase?

A: Communicate openly with your manager, prioritize tasks based on urgency, and seek guidance on streamlining your workload.

Q3: How can I ensure constructive feedback during the focus phase?

A: Solicit feedback proactively, create a culture of open communication within your team, and demonstrate a receptive attitude towards constructive criticism.

Mastering your first 90 days requires a blend of strategic planning, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. By adhering to this proven plan, you set the stage for a flourishing career journey within your new design role. Best of luck!

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Authored by: [Niamh]

This collaborative research-driven exploration required [1] day of dedication and [2 to 3] hours of meticulous crafting.

Connect with me on Twitter: [@niamh_dcreator]

Thank you for your interest.
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Niamh O'shea β€” π—¨π—«β—¦π—¨π—œ π——π—˜π—¦π—œπ—šπ—‘π—˜π—₯

Niamh O'Shea: Your UX/UI Design Fairy ✨ I help brands sparkle with pixels & magic. Join me for insights, tips, and adventures in the world of design.