The New Job Playbook: Tips for a Successful First 90 Days

By: Kyle Lysy

Starting a new job is exciting, and let’s be honest, a little nerve-wracking. I’ve recently been through the transition (and a relocation) myself, so I know the mix of emotions that come with stepping into a new role. To help you hit the ground running, I’m sharing my top three tips for setting yourself up for early success: prioritizing your wellness before day one, getting a feel early on for how your team communicates, and thinking long-term from the start. These are the habits that can help set the stage for a long-term, positive relationship with your new employer.

1. Prioritize Your Wellness & Start with Intention

Starting a new role often comes with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. To ease the transition and set the stage for early success, it helps to approach day one with intention. That means doing more than just showing up, taking time beforehand to get familiar with the company’s mission, understanding where your skills can add value, and reflecting on what success looks like in this new chapter. Prioritizing wellness before the first day can also make a big impact. After recently making a job transition myself, it became clear just how important it is to recharge, mentally and physically, before stepping into a new environment. Building healthy routines early on can support long-term balance and confidence at work.

2. Adapting to Different Communication Styles

Clear communication is the foundation of any high-performing team. Back when I was a student-athlete, my teammates and I learned quickly that transparency and directness helped us navigate pressure and keep moving forward together. That same principle applies in the workplace, authenticity matters, but so does adaptability. It’s not just about saying what’s on your mind; it’s about making sure it lands in a way others can hear.

During my first few weeks at DesignForce, I made it a point to pay attention to how my colleagues communicated. Some preferred quick, data-driven exchanges. Others leaned toward a more collaborative, conversational style. As someone who naturally communicates in a direct, upfront way, I’ve learned to flex my approach depending on who I’m talking to. Taking time to understand how your coworkers and supervisors prefer to give and receive information and being open about your own style builds trust faster. It also prevents misunderstandings, streamlines collaboration, and sets the stage for strong, respectful working relationships. The earlier you start doing this, the better your long-term success will be.

3.  Use Micro & Macro Goals as a North Star

Having short-term and long-term goals from the start can be a powerful motivator and a reliable north star as you settle into a new role. Goals break down bigger ambitions into manageable, actionable steps—each one building confidence and momentum. When structured well, they help you stay focused, track progress, and prioritize what matters most.

As a former pitcher, this mindset was second nature. Rather than fixating on broad ideas like “be a better player,” I focused on tangible metrics, reducing walks per game, hitting a 70% first-pitch strike rate, or mastering a new slider by a specific deadline. These time-bound, measurable goals helped me stay grounded and composed, even under pressure.

In the workplace, that same principle applies. If your manager hasn’t already outlined goals for your first few months, ask for them. And don’t hesitate to share your own as well, this opens the door for alignment, clarity, and feedback. SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) aren’t just a checklist, they’re a tool for staying focused, growing with intention, and making meaningful contributions from day one.

As you transition into a new role or career, remember to approach it with clarity, confidence, and the right mindset. Prioritize your wellness and prepare yourself mentally and physically for the journey ahead. Take time to understand your team’s communication norms and set goals that support long-term success. With these strategies in place, you can navigate challenges with resilience and build meaningful connections along the way. If you ever need guidance on career growth, adjusting to new responsibilities, or simply want someone to soundboard with, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at KL@designforce.me —your success is well within reach!