Emerging Leaders: New to the job? Get a good start

It's never easy to start a new job, particularly when you're eager to prove your worth from Day One.

I recently spoke with a C-level leader from the retail industry about the importance of quickly getting the lay of the land when coming into a new position.

'The first step that I take when taking on a new assignment or a new project is what I call surveying the landscape,” she said. 'I study my surroundings and I try to understand the people and processes that drive value in that particular area.”

With that in mind, here are two steps to take to quickly survey the landscape when you start a new role:

1. Find an influential friend

Scope out the local talent to try to find someone who is well regarded - and well-connected - in your new group and find some time to talk. The person may be your new manager or someone who appears to have some influence in the team.

Let her know you appreciate how knowledgeable and well-connected she is and you would appreciate some advice as you begin your new role.

Review the organizational chart with her and ask:

'Who are the key stakeholders you should get to know?

'To whom else do you need to introduce yourself?

'What questions should you ask them?

From these answers, create a checklist of names as well as a plan to connect with each person in your first month on the job.

2. Embark on a listening tour

Next, connect with every individual on your key stakeholders list. The purpose is not just to introduce yourself but to have a purposeful and educational discussion with each one of them during your first month in the job.

In each conversation, discuss ways you can help each other. Also listen for additional information that will help you uncover the people and processes that really drive value.

In particular, gather intelligence on these categories:

'Informational powerhouses: These are individuals who keep a finger on the pulse of what is going on in the organization, the industry and the broader business environment. By tapping their knowledge of historical data and emerging trends, you will soon find yourself empowered to make better business decisions more quickly.

'Influencers: Listen for the key people of influence - those who have an enhanced ability to lead change and make things happen. They are not necessarily found in high-level or high-profile positions. Pay attention to who holds influence regardless of their job title.

'Coalitions: Look for groups of people who have formed groups that work together effectively and freely share information, resources and opportunities. Ask yourself, 'What do they have in common? What is the social glue that binds this group together?”

This will give you insight into working more effectively with those groups and individuals.

As you begin to meet and get to know such individuals, you will better know who to align yourself with - and how.

Don't spend your first month mastering the tasks listed on your job description. Instead, by taking time to build relationships, listen and get the lay of the land, you will gain confidence and momentum more rapidly in your new role.

'Jo Miller is CEO of Women's Leadership Coaching Inc. Twitter handle: @womensleadershp