Introduction Starting a new job is often treated as a learning exercise. You read your job description, attend training sessions, learn the software, and understand the processes. All of these things are important, but there is another factor that can dramatically influence how quickly you succeed: knowing the right people. The fastest way to struggle in a new job is not always incompetence. Sometimes, it is simply talking to the wrong people. After working across large supply chain and logistics operations, I have seen highly capable professionals take longer to adjust because they did not understand the organization's stakeholder network. Meanwhile, others became effective quickly because they identified the people who could influence their work. Your Job Description Is Only the Beginning Your job description tells you what you are expected to do. It does not always tell you how decisions are made, who controls approvals, where important information comes from, or wh...
Introduction When you join a new company, one of the most common pieces of advice you hear is, "Get a quick win." It sounds simple and useful, but there is a problem with how many professionals interpret it. They choose a win that is safe and easy to complete. They fix a spreadsheet, improve a report, respond to emails faster, or work a little harder. These actions are productive, but they may not make a meaningful difference to how the organization sees them. A real early win should do more than make you feel productive. It should create visible value for the business. What Makes an Early Win Valuable? After working in large operations and supply chain environments, I have seen that the professionals who become top performers quickly do not simply look for something they can finish. They look for something they can improve. The difference is important. Completing a task shows activity. Solving a meaningful problem shows impact. Your first 90 days are an opportunity to esta...