Statistics show nearly half of new employees"cannot continue"because they lack connections with these three types of people
Starting a new job is often filled with excitement mixed with anxiety. Besides proving yourself, you must also adapt to the company culture, work processes, and new colleagues—a crucial period that can determine your future.
Employment data from Robert Walters reveals a startling statistic: 46% of new employees fail or do not succeed within their first 18 months.
The difference between those who"survive"and those who"fall"often isn't about skills but about building relationships.
Your goal in the first 90 days isn't just to focus on work but to build a"strategic network."Here are the first three types of people you should befriend for rapid growth.
Experienced admins or executive assistants
These individuals have worked here a long time—whether as executive assistants to top management, office managers, or team admins. They are"the real operations managers"without official titles.
They hold the key to the secrets of"the unwritten rules"At work, your boss might tell you what to do, but experienced admins tell you how to get it done. They know everything from scheduling to secret procedures for expense approvals. They are your excellent GPS guides.
Approach them with respect and humility. Introduce yourself as a new employee seeking guidance on work processes, and always thank them sincerely.
Colleagues from other departments
People at your level but in different departments are your secret weapons and future allies. Befriending them early helps break down interdepartmental barriers, understand other teams’ challenges, and have partners ready when tough cross-department projects arise.
Be friendly and cooperative as equals. Your goal is to"build bridges between teams,"not just seek help. Introduce yourself and show eagerness to learn about their team’s goals so you can become a good partner.
Your boss’s boss
The executive who oversees your direct manager. Meeting with them is called a"skip-level meeting."They are the spotlight leading to advancement, setting the vision and overall strategy for the department. Talking with them makes you visible to senior leadership and helps you understand how your daily work impacts the bigger picture.
Always get permission from your direct manager first, so they don’t feel bypassed. Tell your manager you want to better understand the department’s vision and ask for approval to introduce yourself to the executive. Once approved, send an email to introduce yourself and request a short meeting to learn about their vision.
Success in a new role isn’t measured only by"tasks completed,"but also by"relationships built."If you strategize well in your first 90 days and connect with these three key people, you’ll lay a strong foundation for your career and be on a promising path.
Source: Forbes