By Carlo Coumoutsos, Managing Partner at Landing Point
Starting a new job is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. The first 90 days in a new position often comes with a learning curve that goes beyond the job description. New people, new responsibilities, and even small day-to-day changes can throw off your rhythm more than you expect.
That adjustment period is completely normal. The key is recognizing it early and preparing for it so that temporary discomfort doesn’t impact your confidence or performance. Hiring managers understand that onboarding takes time, but they’re also paying attention to how new hires show up, engage, and adapt during those first few months.
Over his fourth shot of espresso of the day, Carlo Coumoutsos, Managing Partner at Landing Point, shares practical advice for navigating the first 90 days of a new job—from managing the initial culture shock to building trust with your manager and team. His guidance is focused on simple, intentional tips that can help set the foundation for long-term success.
[Carlo Coumoutsos, Managing Partner at Landing Point, shares advice on how professionals can prepare for their first 90 days in a new job and make a strong first impression.]
Key Takeaways
- Expect there to be an adjustment period, even if you’re excited about the role.
- Don’t let discomfort affect your confidence or performance.
- Show commitment by being present, engaged, and eager to learn.
- Small actions, like checking in with your manager and team, can make a big impact.
Starting a new role often comes with more change than people anticipate. Beyond learning the job itself, you’re adjusting to figuring out your commute, learning where meetings happen, and understanding team dynamics. Acknowledging that reality upfront helps prevent self-doubt. Feeling uncomfortable doesn’t mean you made the wrong move. Once you accept that, consistency becomes your greatest asset. Showing up early, staying engaged, asking thoughtful questions, and making it clear you’re there to learn all signal commitment.
One of the most effective habits Carlo recommends is proactive communication. Before wrapping up your day, check in with your manager or team and ask if there’s anything else you can help with. This small gesture reinforces reliability and shows that you’re invested in contributing beyond what’s required.
It’s also important to remember that the evaluation process goes both ways. While you’re determining whether the role and company are right for you, your manager and team are doing the same. The first 90 days are a shared period of alignment. When you consistently demonstrate curiosity, effort, and a willingness to help, you remove doubt and position yourself as someone who belongs for the long term.
Related readings: Coffee Chats w/ Carlo: Year-End Review Preparation
Looking Ahead
If you’re preparing to start a new role or considering a career move, Landing Point is here to help. Our team works closely with professionals before, during, and after a career transition to ensure you’re set up for success from day one. If you’re thinking about your next step and want guidance navigating those critical first months, reach out to connect with one of our recruiters!
Transcript
Carlo Coumoutsos:
For anyone starting a new job, it’s a lot to take in. It’s a big culture shock—not only moving into a new company and working with new people, but sometimes stepping into an entirely new role.
There are all these other things you have to take into account: how you commute, where things are, where you go for lunch. All of those details can throw off your equilibrium. It’s very natural to not like change. Even when you wanted this job and you’re excited, it’s still a big shift.
The first thing is to prepare for that. Know that it’s going to be different, and don’t let that affect your performance. It’s normal, and it will get better.
After that, the best way to make a first impression is to be the first one to show up and the last one to leave. Make sure your team knows you’re there to learn, to be a sponge, and to help however you can.
Before you leave each day, check in with your manager or your team and ask, “Is there anything else I can do before I head out?” If you do those things, you’ll leave no doubt that you’re an asset and that you want to be there for the long run.
At the end of the day, just like you’re figuring out whether this was the right move for you, your team and your hiring manager are doing the same.
About Carlo Coumoutsos
Carlo Coumoutsos is Managing Partner at Landing Point, where he oversees the firm’s Accounting & Finance, Capital Formation & Investment Support, and Tax & Family Office practices. He partners with clients across the Tri-State area and beyond on executive search and finance leadership hiring for asset management, private equity, and family office platforms.
With a background as a CPA and former PwC auditor, Carlo brings precision, credibility, and deep financial acumen to every search. Notable searches include CFOs and broader financial leadership roles across diverse investment entities and multi-family offices.
A hands-on mentor and an integral part of Landing Point’s growth, Carlo leads Landing Point’s training programs, continuing education, and partnerships with academic and community organizations that support career readiness. He is known for a balanced approach that combines technical expertise with relationship depth and long-term client partnership.
Carlo holds both a BS and an MS in Accounting from Fordham University and lives in New York with his wife and four sons.