Introduction When you join a new company, someone will probably tell you, “Don’t worry. Just take some time to settle in.” It sounds like good advice. After all, starting a new job can be overwhelming. There are new people, processes, systems, expectations, and ways of working. Naturally, you need time to understand your surroundings. But there is a problem with the “settle in” mindset. If you spend your first few months simply waiting to feel comfortable, you may lose the most valuable period of your transition. Your first 90 days are not just a period for settling in. They are a period for learning, building relationships, creating credibility, and understanding how you can make an impact. Why “Just Settle In” Can Hold You Back When people are told to settle in, they often become passive. They attend meetings, complete assigned tasks, observe what others are doing, and wait for someone to tell them what they should focus on. There is nothing wrong with observing. In ...
The Challenges Faced by Swastika Swastika had always been resilient. As a transgender woman, she navigated numerous challenges in her personal life with courage and determination. However, when she joined a reputed company as a product manager, she encountered a different kind of battle. In the corporate world, her gender identity became a focal point of unwarranted scrutiny, judgment, and discrimination. Despite her qualifications and dedication, Swastika found herself facing subtle yet persistent biases. Colleagues often questioned her capabilities, and some even outright avoided working with her. She was excluded from important meetings and decisions, making her feel isolated and undervalued. The stress of trying to prove herself constantly weighed on her, and the workplace, which should have been a platform for her growth, turned into a source of anxiety and frustration. One day, Swastika received a message from the CEO’s office requesting a meeting. This added to her stress, as sh...