That mix of excitement and nerves when starting a new job is something most of us know well. While one in three UK employees leave within their first 90 days, those who stay and thrive often follow a simple plan. In this post, we have given a breakdown of what to focus on each week of your first month to help you settle in and succeed.

 

What Makes This Plan Different

This isn’t just about making a good impression. This plan helps you:

• Learn what you need in the right order
• Build relationships that actually help your work
• Show your value without trying to do everything at once
• Set yourself up for growth beyond just the first few weeks

 

Week 1: Getting Your Bearings

Your first week sets the tone for your entire journey. Focus on:

• Ask your manager: “What should I focus on first?”
• Learn the basics: systems, logins, team names
• Find out who does what on your team
• Set up your workspace to help you focus

Try This: Create a simple list with three headings: “Need to Know Now,” “Need to Know Soon,” and “Good to Know Later.” This helps you sort out what to learn first.

 

Week 2: Starting to Contribute

Now’s the time to begin adding value while continuing to learn:

• Take on small, manageable tasks
• Ask questions when you need help
• Pay attention to how things get done
• Start joining conversations in meetings

 

Week 3: Building Your Network

Rather than trying to meet everyone at once, focus on making helpful connections:

• Meet people beyond your immediate team
• Find out who knows what in the company
• Look for chances to help others with quick tasks
• Begin sharing your ideas in smaller settings

* Pro Tip: Keep track of who helps with what. Knowing that Sam in IT is great with password resets or that Jamie in Marketing knows the company history can save you time later.

 

Week 4: Finding Your Rhythm

By now, you should be settling in. Use this time to:

1. Check in with your manager about your progress
2. Start planning for the next few months
3. Look for a small project you can lead
4. Establish your regular work patterns and habits

 

Working Remotely or Hybrid?

If you’re not in the office full-time, add these to your plan:

• Make extra effort to connect with colleagues online
• Keep notes on processes and contacts
• Create a routine that helps people know when you’re available
• Share updates on what you’re doing in team chats or meetings

* Pro Tip: When working remotely, a quick “Good morning” message and sharing what you plan to work on helps people feel connected to you.

 

Simple Ways to Track Your Progress

Keep a basic record of:

• New things you’ve learned
• People you’ve met and what they do
• Small wins and accomplishments
• Questions you still have

This can be as simple as notes on your phone or a small notebook.

 

Making It Count

Those first 30 days can set you up for success. While others are just trying to get through each day, you’ll be building something bigger. Every conversation helps you learn, each task shows what you can do, and day by day, you’re building your place in the team.

This step-by-step approach pays off in the long run. The connections you make and the way you work in these early days open doors – whether that’s growing in your current company or preparing for your next career move. What you do in your first month matters, and you’ve got what it takes to make it count.