Transitioning Well

I previously posted a tip on how to successfully transition into a new role or organization. I've done this talk many times over the years for our new hires to help them start strong in their first 90 days. I thought I would post the entire outline for the talk here.

Transitioning Well

By: Dan Zimbardi

Walk in Humility: Outward expression of humility

• Pride is a transition killer, especially if you are in a Sr level position or are on a physical or digital platform

• Roll up your sleeves and do the dirty work

• Put the needs of others and the organization above your own

Goal #1 of Transitioning Well: Build strong relationships by building trust

• Listen well

• Ask questions over making statements

• Go the extra mile to care for those on your team who are in need

• Celebrate people privately and publicly

Be Proactive: Don't be a person who waits to be directed

• Do the things you are not asked to do that you think will add value and that others aren't willing to do

• Fear drives inaction and insecurity, don't listen to that voice

Manage Tension of Observing vs. Making Change

• Drive alignment with stakeholders and your boss before making changes

• Be an excellent observer vs. making change

• People can lose confidence in you if NOTHING is different after 3 months

Establish a Roadmap: Layout your first 90 days in a document

• Action items, dates, deliverables

• People to meet with, history and key milestones of the org to learn

• Work the roadmap daily/weekly

• Communicate progress with your supervisor regularly

Know what is important to your boss, and make that important to you.

• This is a season where you're building credibility with your boss

• Self-starter

• Proactive but not a nuisance

• Overdeliver to your boss

Be Flexible, low maintenance, and hard to disappoint.

What's your best tip for transitioning well into a new role?

If you're in a new role and struggling with the transition, email me and let me know. I'd love to help.