Your First 30 Days: How to Make a Strong Start in Your New Job
Congratulations on your new role! As you embark on this journey, the first 30 days will play a crucial role in setting the tone for your success and growth within the organisation. This period offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impression and establish a strong foundation for your career. Within the first 3 months (average probation period) you're on probation, you're still being assessed on your capabilities and fit for the role, team and company. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to make a powerful start in your new job.
Define and align objectives: Working with your superiors and team to establish clear objectives within the first week of your new job is crucial, it sets a clear roadmap of expectations and for your contributions, ensuring that your efforts are synchronised with the teams objectives, priorities and the organisation's overarching goals. This early clarity empowers you to focus your skills and expertise effectively, making a meaningful impact from the outset.
Set clear goals: Once you're clear about your specific role and responsibilities within the team, establish clear and achievable goals with your manager. Setting milestones will help you stay focused, measure your progress, and showcase your contributions to the organisation.
Make a plan: With your deliverables and objectives outlined, craft a plan and strategy that defines prioritised and actionable steps towards reaching your milestones. Be sure to include dated deadlines to keep you on track and accountable. Identify crucial stakeholders inside and out of your immediate team, whose collaboration is vital for your success. Arrange meetings to comprehend their roles and establish synergies toward shared goals.
Build Relationships: Networking is not just an option—it's a strategic advantage. Connect with key stakeholders, decision-makers, and colleagues across various departments. Your ability to foster relationships will strengthen collaboration and influence, enabling you to drive initiatives forward more effectively. Strong professional relationships can provide valuable insights and support as you navigate your role.
Weeks 1-2 Define objectives, set goals & network
- Meet with your immediate superiors to understand personal and team objectives and expectations.
- Set clear goals and establish milestones to measure progress and demonstrate your contribution.
- Craft a plan and strategy that defines prioritised and actionable steps.
- Focus on delivery.
- Schedule meetings with key stakeholders and team members.
- Attend departmental and cross-functional meetings to establish connections.
Leverage Your Expertise: In these initial weeks, draw upon your industry knowledge and role expertise, after all, this is what got you the job offer in the first place. Make it a priority to understand the existing processes, and identify opportunities to enhance efficiencies and outcomes. Share insights and best practices derived from your past successes in similar situations, by doing so you're poised to contribute to the team's success right from the start.
Absorb Knowledge: Businesses within Financial Services are constantly evolving. Take advantage of any available training, workshops, or resources to enhance your industry or job specific knowledge. Stay updated on relevant regulations, market trends, and best practices to stay ahead of the curve and position yourself as a knowledgeable asset.
Communicate Effectively: Clear communication is paramount in any job, at any time of your career. Whether you're discussing project updates, sharing insights, or seeking assistance, ensure your messages are concise, accurate, and tailored to your audience. Effective communication builds trust and ensures everyone is on the same page.
Reflect and Adapt: Regularly reflect on your progress and accomplishments during your first 30 days. Assess what's working well and identify areas for improvement. Use this feedback to adapt your plan and strategies and continue growing in your role.
Weeks 3-4 Leverage your experience, gain more knowledge, Communicate and reflect
- Share insights and best practices derived from your past successes
- Stay updated on relevant regulations, market trends, and best practices
- Effective communication builds trust
- Reflect on your progress and accomplishments, gain feedback
We've developed a template that can be used to document and track your your first 30 days in your new role. Download or print the template and complete the relevant fields that support and navigate the beginning of your new career.
Recent Posts
The Reality of Switching Big 4 Firms When people think about their next career move after joining a Big 4 firm, the most common path is out—not across. Most professionals use the Big 4 as a launchpad before moving into industry roles, in-house positions, or even outside the financial world. While many professionals take that route, switching between firms is a fairly common step for those looking for a change without leaving the Big 4 environment. As a recruiter who works closely with professionals and teams across the Big 4—particularly within Financial Services—I’ve had a front-row seat to these kinds of moves. So here’s a balanced, honest take on what it really looks like to switch from one Big 4 firm to another. Why Do People Consider Switching? The reasons vary, but here are some of the most common motivations: Promotion Opportunity – Sometimes people feel they’ve hit a ceiling in their current team and believe another firm might offer a faster path to manager, director or Partner. Culture or Team Fit – Not all Big 4 environments are the same. A team’s culture, leadership style, or even just personalities can have a big impact on your day-to-day life. Location or Visa Needs – A move might be driven by a desire (or need) to relocate, and another firm may be more supportive or flexible with international transfers or sponsorship. Frustration with Current Role or Manager – It’s not always about the firm itself, but the dynamics of the current team or reporting line that make someone look elsewhere. Client Exposure or Project Variety – Some candidates perceive another Big 4 firm as having more interesting clients or a broader range of projects in a specific sector. What Are the Potential Benefits? Switching firms can offer a valuable refresh: A Clean Slate – If you’ve been stuck doing the same kind of work or feel overlooked, a new environment can help reset perceptions and open new opportunities. Broader Experience – Each Big 4 firm has its own methodologies, client portfolios, and internal structures. Exposure to multiple can strengthen your CV and experience. Expanded Network – New firm, new relationships, new mentors—this can matter more than people realise. Promotion Leverage – Sometimes, moving firms can fast-track a promotion, especially if you’re already operating at the next level but blocked internally. What Should You Watch Out For? It’s not always the right choice, and expectations should be realistic: High Expectations from Day One – You’re not treated like a graduate hire. You’re expected to ramp up quickly, often without much handholding. Not That Different – The Big 4 are more alike than different in many ways. If you’re expecting a totally new lifestyle or culture, you might be disappointed. Culture Fit Is Still a Gamble – Even within the same service line, culture can vary between firms—or even between teams in the same office. Burnout Can Follow You – If you’re switching to escape long hours or high pressure, those challenges may exist at the next firm too. So, Is It Worth It? The honest answer: It depends. If your goal is to reposition yourself, break out of a box, or align with a team that better fits your personality and career goals, switching can absolutely make sense. But if you're hoping for a radically different experience or relief from the usual pressures of Big 4 life, a switch might not deliver what you're looking for. If You're Considering a Move… Here are a few thoughts before making the leap: Get Clear on Your "Why" – Is this a strategic move or an emotional one? What do you hope will be different? Do Your Research – Speak to people who’ve made the move. Ask real questions. Culture isn’t just a buzzword. Be Realistic – No job is perfect. Every firm has internal challenges, politics, and pressures. Think Long-Term – Will this move help you get where you want to be in 3–5 years? Final Thoughts Switching from one Big 4 firm to another isn’t a bad move—but it’s also not a magic fix. It’s one of many options, and for the right person, at the right time, it can be the right next step. Whatever you choose—whether it’s staying, switching, or stepping out of Big 4 altogether—the key is being intentional about your path.
Social Share
The Reality of Switching Big 4 Firms When people think about their next career move after joining a Big 4 firm, the most common path is out—not across. Most professionals use the Big 4 as a launchpad before moving into industry roles, in-house positions, or even outside the financial world. While many professionals take that route, switching between firms is a fairly common step for those looking for a change without leaving the Big 4 environment. As a recruiter who works closely with professionals and teams across the Big 4—particularly within Financial Services—I’ve had a front-row seat to these kinds of moves. So here’s a balanced, honest take on what it really looks like to switch from one Big 4 firm to another. Why Do People Consider Switching? The reasons vary, but here are some of the most common motivations: Promotion Opportunity – Sometimes people feel they’ve hit a ceiling in their current team and believe another firm might offer a faster path to manager, director or Partner. Culture or Team Fit – Not all Big 4 environments are the same. A team’s culture, leadership style, or even just personalities can have a big impact on your day-to-day life. Location or Visa Needs – A move might be driven by a desire (or need) to relocate, and another firm may be more supportive or flexible with international transfers or sponsorship. Frustration with Current Role or Manager – It’s not always about the firm itself, but the dynamics of the current team or reporting line that make someone look elsewhere. Client Exposure or Project Variety – Some candidates perceive another Big 4 firm as having more interesting clients or a broader range of projects in a specific sector. What Are the Potential Benefits? Switching firms can offer a valuable refresh: A Clean Slate – If you’ve been stuck doing the same kind of work or feel overlooked, a new environment can help reset perceptions and open new opportunities. Broader Experience – Each Big 4 firm has its own methodologies, client portfolios, and internal structures. Exposure to multiple can strengthen your CV and experience. Expanded Network – New firm, new relationships, new mentors—this can matter more than people realise. Promotion Leverage – Sometimes, moving firms can fast-track a promotion, especially if you’re already operating at the next level but blocked internally. What Should You Watch Out For? It’s not always the right choice, and expectations should be realistic: High Expectations from Day One – You’re not treated like a graduate hire. You’re expected to ramp up quickly, often without much handholding. Not That Different – The Big 4 are more alike than different in many ways. If you’re expecting a totally new lifestyle or culture, you might be disappointed. Culture Fit Is Still a Gamble – Even within the same service line, culture can vary between firms—or even between teams in the same office. Burnout Can Follow You – If you’re switching to escape long hours or high pressure, those challenges may exist at the next firm too. So, Is It Worth It? The honest answer: It depends. If your goal is to reposition yourself, break out of a box, or align with a team that better fits your personality and career goals, switching can absolutely make sense. But if you're hoping for a radically different experience or relief from the usual pressures of Big 4 life, a switch might not deliver what you're looking for. If You're Considering a Move… Here are a few thoughts before making the leap: Get Clear on Your "Why" – Is this a strategic move or an emotional one? What do you hope will be different? Do Your Research – Speak to people who’ve made the move. Ask real questions. Culture isn’t just a buzzword. Be Realistic – No job is perfect. Every firm has internal challenges, politics, and pressures. Think Long-Term – Will this move help you get where you want to be in 3–5 years? Final Thoughts Switching from one Big 4 firm to another isn’t a bad move—but it’s also not a magic fix. It’s one of many options, and for the right person, at the right time, it can be the right next step. Whatever you choose—whether it’s staying, switching, or stepping out of Big 4 altogether—the key is being intentional about your path.
The success of any hiring process in the financial services sector heavily relies on attracting top-notch talent, and an essential aspect of this is crafting a compelling job description. A poorly written job description can be a major turn-off for skilled professionals, leading to low applicant numbers or attracting the wrong candidates. In this blog, we will explore the common problem of writing a bad job description and provide practical solutions to help hiring managers create job postings that attract the best talent in the industry.
In today's highly competitive job market, attracting top talent has become a challenge for Financial Service companies. As demand for skilled professionals in Accounting, Audit, Compliance and Risk outpaces supply, hiring managers must adopt innovative strategies to secure the best candidates for their organisations. In this blog, we'll explore the common problems faced by companies in this scenario and provide effective solutions to overcome these hurdles.
In today's digital age, LinkedIn has become an essential tool for professionals seeking career opportunities. With its vast network of industry experts and recruiters, LinkedIn offers a unique platform to showcase your skills and experience in the financial services sector. This blog will guide you through the process of optimising your LinkedIn profile to attract interviews and job offers within the financial services industry. As an added bonus, we've designed a step by step, how to guide to help you action these steps on your LinkedIn profile. 1. Choose a Professional Profile Picture Your profile picture is the first impression potential employers will have of you. Aim for a high-quality, professional-looking photo that highlights your approachability and professionalism. Dress appropriately for your industry and ensure the background is uncluttered. 2. Craft a Compelling Headline The headline appears beneath your name and is a crucial element to grab attention. Instead of simply stating your job title, use this space to highlight your key skills, achievements, and areas of expertise within the financial services industry. Make it concise, engaging, and keyword-rich to increase visibility in relevant searches. 3. Create an Engaging Summary The summary section is your opportunity to showcase your unique value proposition. Describe your professional background, achievements, and career goals in a compelling and concise manner. Highlight your expertise in financial services and emphasise how your skills can benefit potential employers. Use bullet points and paragraph breaks to improve readability. 4. Optimise Your Experience Section a. Tailor your job descriptions: For each position you've held, provide a concise yet detailed description of your responsibilities and accomplishments. Focus on quantifiable achievements, such as exceeding targets, implementing successful strategies, or generating revenue. Use action verbs and industry-specific keywords to make your profile stand out. b. Showcase your financial skills: In the financial services industry, specific skills and certifications are highly valued. Highlight relevant qualifications, such as CFA, CPA, or industry-specific software expertise. List any relevant training programs or certifications you have completed, further demonstrating your commitment to professional growth. 5. Utilise Recommendations and Endorsements Request recommendations from colleagues, supervisors, or clients who can attest to your skills and work ethic. Positive endorsements provide credibility and validate your professional achievements. Similarly, endorse the skills of others within your network to encourage reciprocity. 6. Expand Your Network Building a strong professional network is essential on LinkedIn. Connect with colleagues, industry leaders, recruiters, and professionals in the financial services sector. Engage with their content, join relevant industry groups, and participate in discussions to expand your reach and visibility. 7. Share Relevant Content Demonstrate your knowledge and expertise by regularly sharing relevant articles, insights, or industry trends. This positions you as an engaged professional in the financial services sector and increases your visibility among your connections and potential employers. 8. Engage and Interact Engagement is key to building meaningful connections. Regularly engage with your connections' posts by liking, commenting, and sharing. Engage in professional conversations, provide thoughtful insights, and demonstrate your expertise. Active participation helps you stay top-of-mind and fosters meaningful connections. 9. Highlight Projects and Volunteer Experience If you have completed notable projects or have relevant volunteer experience, showcase them in the designated sections on your profile. This helps provide a comprehensive view of your skills and demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and community involvement. 10. Stay Active and Up-to-Date Maintain an active presence on LinkedIn by regularly updating your profile, sharing new achievements, and participating in discussions. Stay informed about industry trends, news, and emerging technologies within the financial services sector. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and staying ahead in your field. Optimising your LinkedIn profile is crucial for attracting interviews and job offers within the financial services industry. By following these guidelines , you can create a powerful online presence that showcases your skills, experience, and expertise. Remember to maintain an active presence, engage with your network, and stay up-to-date with industry developments. With an optimised LinkedIn profile, you'll be well-positioned to unlock exciting career opportunities in the financial services sector. Don't forget to download our step by step, how to guide to help you action these steps on your LinkedIn profile.