Eight+ Traps That Can Derail a Career in the First 100 Days

 Julia’s task list for her first day in her new job included 22 items. She walked through the sliding glass doors knowing exactly how she was going to spend the day. She was excited to demonstrate her value and experience. She couldn’t wait to tell her new team her ideas (item #3 on her list).Fast forward 16 months. Julia walks out the same sliding glass doors for the last time. She’s not sure what happened, or why she didn’t gel with her team.According to the Society for Human Resource Management, 25% of the US population experiences a job transition every year. Unfortunately, many of these transitions are not successful. In fact, half of outside senior hires fail within 18 months.Don’t be a statistic. Don’t be like Julia.Avoid these eight+ traps listed below. They can derail a career in the crucial first 100 days in a new role:

1. Failure to clarify expectations. While the formal job description lists expectations, there are also informal expectations that aren’t put on paper. Be sure that you know what your leadership really expects from you.
2. Failure to understand your new manager and her style and needs. The first 100 days is the time to build a strong relationship with your new manager. What makes her tick? What drives her? How can you best adapt to her communication and decision-making style?
3. Not building credibility and trust with employees. Each employee is different. The first 100 days is an important time to assess your team and set strategies to engage employees.
4. Taking abrupt action without taking the time to learn. Give yourself enough time to observe and understand why things are the way they are.
5. Failure to continue to develop. As Marshall Goldsmith’s book title says, “What got you here won’t get you there.” During your transition period, be humble enough to identify new skills, knowledge, and relationships that will help you continue to progress in your career.
6. Being perceived as eccentric. Take time to learn the culture and fit in.
7. Aligning with the right players. The first 100 days gives you the opportunity to understand the informal power structure in the organization. Who are the up and comers? Who is on their way out?
8. Step on political landmines. Unless you are specifically expected to go after sacred cows in the organization, tread wisely during your first 100 days.
9. BONUS: Assume without asking questions. Ask a lot of questions from different angles and people. Even when you think you know the answer.

 LESSON LEARNED: Don’t go in blindly. Prepare and focus.