Success for your first 90 days: A guide for HR professionals

Success for your first 90 days in a new HR role

As an experienced HR professional taking on a new role, the first 90 days present both exciting opportunities and potential pitfalls. How you handle this transition period can make or break your ability to get the most out of the role, drive meaningful change and cultivate trust within the organisation.

Day 1: Start off strong

•  Arrive early to start your day calmly.
•  Dress for success according to company culture.
•  Come prepared with questions about your role, team & key priorities. 
• Be an active listener and take notes during onboarding sessions.

Week 1: Learn the ropes

•  Clarify immediate expectations and goals with your manager
• Start building connections by introducing yourself to colleagues.
• Pay attention to names, interests, responsibilities & reporting lines. 
• Ask for access to key documentation, processes & systems.
•  Observe group dynamics, communication styles, and decision-making. 
• Review company handbook and policies.
•  Look for small ways to contribute by asking "How can I help?"

Month 1: Find your groove

•  Schedule 1-on-1s with any core team members you haven’t met.
•  Check in regularly with your manager to gather feedback.
•  Study the company culture, values and ensure goal alignment.
•  Attend team meetings or events to build working relationships.
•  Review practices and look for areas to add value.
•  Be kind to yourself. It’s tough settling into a new role.

Month 2: Increase your impact

•   Gain a deeper understanding of strategic objectives & HR’s supporting role.
•   Look for ways to increase efficiencies or improve processes.
•   Identify quick wins to demonstrate your capabilities and work ethic. 
•   Seek out valuable resources, tools or partnerships to support HR initiatives.
•   Identify any skill gaps and create a professional development plan for yourself.

Month 3: Solidify your standing

•   Reflect on your progress over the first 90 days & acknowledge achievements to date.
•   Reset your goals and priorities based on your deeper understanding. 
•   Celebrate wins and keep building positive momentum.

90 days +: Ongoing success

•  Build deeper connections through knowledge sharing, volunteering for tasks, projects or committees.
•  Seek out stretch opportunities to expand your skill set. 
• Take on a high-visibility project to increase influence

The first 90 days can be both energising and overwhelming. It's important to maintain connections with your professional community during this transition. This includes leveraging The Next Step team as a sounding board.

It's also critical to stay plugged into the broader HR dialogue. This keeps you abreast of new trends, best practices and innovative approaches to support your leadership. Remain engaged through broader networking opportunities and resources like signing up for The Next Step's webinars and e-newsletters. A vibrant professional network fosters continuous learning and development.

The first 90 days establish the foundation, but your professional progression is an endless pursuit. Cultivate a growth mindset, intellectual curiosity and adaptability to drive continuous improvement. The world of HR is constantly evolving - be a force for positive change.

The first 90 days allow you to shape lasting perceptions through the actions and presence you bring to your HR role. By preparing diligently and taking ownership of the process, you demonstrate your calibre and lay the foundation for making a profound impact in this new organisation.