MIND FOR LIFE

#77 – 5 Priorities When Starting a New Job (That Nobody Tells You)

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Starting a new job? The first few weeks set the tone for everything that follows. Most people focus on performing—but they forget to position. In this episode of the Mind For Life podcast, Dr. Jeff outlines five priorities you should lock in immediately to earn trust, build credibility, and grow long-term value in your new role.

Mastering these priorities when starting a new job can help you gain momentum faster and avoid common traps that hold new employees back.

1. Clarify Expectations Through Metacommunication

One of the top priorities when starting a new job is making sure expectations are crystal clear. You need more than a job description. Ask:

  • Who reports to whom?
  • What expectations do others have of you?
  • What expectations do you have of others?
  • How does this team handle conflict or disagreement?

Get the rules of engagement clear before you misstep.

2. Become a Learner (Fast)

Your growth should be one of your main priorities when starting a new job. Every role is a classroom. Learn skills that can help you earn:

  • A promotion at this company
  • Your boss’s job when they move on
  • A better job somewhere else

Growth-minded professionals rise faster—because they’re ready.

3. Understand the Office Relational Dynamics

Understanding how to navigate personalities and politics is a critical priority when starting a new job. This isn’t just “politics”—it’s people. Know:

  • Who influences decisions
  • Who controls information
  • Who’s helpful—and who’s harmful

Don’t assume people will adjust to you. The most successful employees adapt their communication to different personalities early.

4. Provide Value, Proactively

A major priority when starting a new job is making yourself useful early. Don’t wait to be assigned work. Look for ways to contribute.
Even if it feels uncomfortable, go ask the right people:

“Anything I can help you with today?”

You’ll learn more, gain exposure, and trigger reciprocity—a core principle of influence.

5. Demonstrate the Value You Bring

Doing great work isn’t enough. You need to make sure the right people know what you’re doing—without coming off as a bragger.

  • Document your wins
  • Share progress clearly
  • Strategically showcase contributions

Because if a tree falls in the forest… and no one knows you were the one who made it fall, it’s like you never did.

This is one of the most overlooked priorities when starting a new job, but it makes a huge difference in how you’re perceived and promoted.

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