Starting a new job can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially in the fast-paced and competitive Gulf job market. In the first few weeks, you’re not just learning the ins and outs of your new role, but also navigating the expectations of your new company and colleagues. Whether you're joining a major organization in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, or elsewhere in the Gulf, the key to a successful transition often lies in how you approach those critical first 30 days.
In a recent BaytCast episode, Hani Alahdal, a senior HR leader, emphasized the importance of setting clear expectations for the first 30 and 90 days in any new job. Hani’s experience in leading HR teams across large organizations like Sabic gave him valuable insights into how employees can make a significant impact from day one. Drawing from his conversation with Bayt.com CEO Rabea Ataya, here’s a fail-safe checklist to guide you through your first month in a new job and ensure you start off on the right foot.
One of the most important pieces of advice Hani shared in the podcast was the necessity of understanding your manager’s expectations in your first 30 days. While you might have a general job description, it’s crucial to dive deeper and clarify the specific goals you are expected to achieve. Whether it’s completing certain projects, meeting specific metrics, or simply familiarizing yourself with the company’s operations, having clear expectations ensures you’re aligned from the start.
Set up a one-on-one meeting with your manager early in your first week to discuss expectations for the first 30, 60, and 90 days. This will not only give you direction but also show your proactive attitude in understanding how you can contribute to the team and company right from the outset.
The first month in a new job is about more than just showing your skills—it’s also about building relationships with your team members, colleagues, and stakeholders. Hani’s advice was simple: take the time to build rapport with everyone you work with, especially those you’ll interact with regularly. The better your relationships, the more effective your collaboration will be down the road.
Make it a priority to meet with key team members and other colleagues to introduce yourself and understand how you can work together effectively. Attend team meetings, even if they are just to observe and learn. By showing genuine interest in others and their roles, you position yourself as a team player, which will be invaluable for future success.
Understanding the company’s culture, values, and operational processes is key to your success. Each organization has its unique way of working, and aligning with that culture is vital to fitting in and making a lasting impact. Whether it’s understanding how decisions are made, the company’s communication style, or the expectations for work-life balance, learning the cultural nuances will help you navigate your new environment more effectively.
Take time to observe and ask questions about company traditions, unwritten rules, and how things are done. This will give you the tools you need to integrate seamlessly into your new role and the organization.
Your first 30 days are an opportunity for you to learn quickly and refine your approach. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback early and often, and be open to constructive criticism. This is a time for growth, and feedback will be invaluable in helping you adjust to your new role.
In his BaytCast interview, Hani emphasized that early feedback allows you to make quick adjustments and avoid common mistakes. Embrace feedback as a tool for improvement rather than a criticism, and actively apply it to improve your performance. This will show your manager and team that you're dedicated to continuous improvement.
In the first month of any new job, you’re likely to encounter new challenges. Rather than waiting for someone to solve them for you, take the initiative to identify solutions. Hani advised that showing your problem-solving skills early on not only demonstrates your value but also sets you up as someone who is proactive and resourceful.
Look for ways to add value to your team and the organization right from the beginning. Identify processes that could be improved, suggest changes where necessary, and be a problem solver in the workplace. Your ability to demonstrate value early on will ensure that you’re seen as an asset to the company.
With so much to learn and accomplish in your first month, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. One of the most important things you can do in the first 30 days is to stay organized and manage your time effectively. Whether you’re learning about new processes, meeting people, or working on projects, staying organized ensures that you don’t miss important details.
Set aside time each day to review your priorities, create to-do lists, and track your progress. Having a clear understanding of what needs to be done will help you stay focused and productive, reducing stress and allowing you to perform at your best.
Even in your first month, it’s important to start building your personal brand within the company. Be consistent in your work ethic, your communication, and your professionalism. Show up on time, be reliable, and contribute to team goals. The impression you make in your first 30 days will set the tone for how others perceive you in the future.
Start to identify the strengths that set you apart and look for ways to bring them to the forefront in your daily tasks. Whether it’s your technical skills, creativity, or leadership potential, demonstrating your unique value early will help you stand out in a positive way.
In his BaytCast episode with Rabea Ataya, Hani Alahdal discussed how he applies the 30/90-day expectations strategy during the hiring and onboarding process. He explained how setting clear goals for new hires in the first 30 days not only sets them up for success but also ensures they are aligned with the company’s broader vision. Hani’s own leadership style reflects the power of clear expectations and how they can impact a professional's journey from day one.
You can listen to the full BaytCast episode with Hani on YouTube or stream the audio on Spotify, Anghami, and Apple Podcasts.
Your first 30 days in a new job are crucial for laying the foundation for long-term success. By focusing on clear expectations, building relationships, learning the company’s culture, staying adaptable, and demonstrating problem-solving skills, you’ll not only impress your manager but also set yourself up for advancement. With Hani’s advice in mind, use this checklist to make a strong, positive impression during your first month and get on track for future leadership opportunities.
