What should you do in your first 90 days in your first job?

In your first 90 days, learn how the work gets done, agree on goals with your manager, deliver a few small wins, build relationships and ask for feedback regularly. Use a simple 30-60-90 plan: listen and learn in the first month, contribute in the second, and own a small piece of work in the third.

At a glance

• Month one: learn the people, tools, rules and what good work looks like.
• Month two: take on tasks, ask for feedback and fix what you hear.
• Month three: own a small project and agree next goals.
• Write things down: tasks, names, answers and lessons.
• Ask questions early, and ask them well.

What should you do before day one?

Confirm your start time, location, dress norms and who to ask for on arrival. Complete any onboarding forms. Review the first job offer checklist and make sure you have written answers on pay date and benefits. Keep a notebook, paper or digital, for the first day.

Days 1 to 30: learn

• Meet your people. Learn names and roles on your team and the teams you will work with. Ask your manager who else you should talk to.
• Learn the basics. Tools, schedules, safety rules, how to request time off, where to find help.
• Clarify expectations. Ask your manager: "What would a great first month look like?" and "How do you prefer updates: email, chat or meetings?"
• Take notes. Write down answers so you do not ask the same question twice.
• Do small tasks well. Reliability matters more than speed at the start. Arrive on time and finish what you start.

If your employer has a mentor, use that person. Programs that combine work and training, such as the apprenticeships described on Apprenticeship.gov, are built around learning from an experienced mentor, and the same habit helps in any first job.

Days 31 to 60: contribute

• Ask for specific tasks you can own, and give a time estimate.
• Ask for feedback: "What is one thing I should do more of, and one thing I should change?"
• Show your work in progress so surprises are rare.
• Learn how your team measures success and note where your tasks connect to it.
• Keep a log of what you completed. It will help at your first review and on your next resume.

Days 61 to 90: own something

• Take on a small project or process and carry it from start to finish.
• Suggest one improvement, based on something you noticed, with a clear first step.
• Meet your manager to review progress and agree on goals for the next quarter.
• Ask about training, certificates or skills that lead to the next level.
• Build relationships beyond your team, as described in networking; networking does not stop when the job search does.

How do you ask good questions?

Try the answer first, then ask. Say what you tried and what you think the answer is: "I checked the shared guide and I think the next step is X. Is that right?" Batch non-urgent questions for a scheduled check-in. For urgent or safety-related questions, ask immediately.

What mistakes do new graduates make?

• Staying silent when they are confused.
• Overpromising on deadlines.
• Treating feedback as criticism instead of information.
• Skipping the small tasks that teammates rely on.
• Posting about work in public or sharing confidential material.
• Letting job search habits lapse. Keep your resume updated using a simple tracker of what you delivered.

What if the job is not what you expected?

Give it at least a few months while you learn what is normal. Talk to your manager if the duties differ from the offer. If it is still a poor fit, keep a note of what you want in the next role and look for a move in a planned way, not in a rush.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an official 90-day rule? No. The probationary or introductory period is set by your employer, so ask what yours is and what it means.

Should I ask for a performance review? Yes, ask your manager when your first check-in will be.

How do I handle mistakes? Say so early, explain what happened, fix it and note what you will change.

Should I connect with coworkers on social media? Follow your company's guidance and keep it professional.

When should I think about a raise? After you have a record of results. See how to negotiate salary for how to prepare.

By LiveRec Editorial. Read our editorial standards.