10.5 Succeeding During Your First 90 Days
📋 In this chapter:
  1. Lesson Overview
  2. Learning Objectives
  3. Why the First 90 Days Matter
  4. Understanding the Probationary Period
  5. Week 1: Observe, Learn, and Listen
  6. Building Trust
  7. Learning Quickly
  8. Taking Initiative
  9. Developing Confidence
  10. Becoming Dependable
  11. Accepting Feedback Professionally
  12. Asking Appropriate Questions
  13. Knowing When to Ask for Help
  14. Working Effectively With Your Team
  15. Demonstrating Professionalism Every Day
  16. Working Independently
  17. Common Mistakes Made by New Employees
  18. Time Management During Your First Months
  19. Managing Stress and Anxiety
  20. Building Positive Relationships
  21. Demonstrating a Growth Mindset
  22. Your Professional Reputation Begins Immediately
  23. 90-Day Success Checklist
  24. Interactive Scenarios
  25. First 90 Days Action Plan
  26. Knowledge Check
  27. Key Takeaways
10.5.1 Lesson Overview
🎉 Congratulations—you've been hired!

Starting your first pharmacy assistant position is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. During your first few weeks, you will learn new systems, meet new coworkers, adapt to workplace routines, and begin applying your knowledge in a real pharmacy setting.

Many employers believe that the first 90 days (approximately three months) are the most important period in a new employee's career. During this time, supervisors evaluate not only your technical abilities but also your attitude, professionalism, reliability, willingness to learn, and how well you fit into the team.

💡 Remember: Your employer does not expect you to know everything on your first day. They do expect you to arrive prepared, ask thoughtful questions, accept feedback, and demonstrate continuous improvement. The habits you develop during your first 90 days can shape your professional reputation for years to come.
10.5.2 Learning Objectives
🎯 After completing this lesson, students should be able to:
  • ✅ Understand employer expectations during the probationary period
  • ✅ Build trust with pharmacists, technicians, coworkers, and patients
  • ✅ Learn efficiently in a new workplace
  • ✅ Demonstrate initiative while recognizing personal limitations
  • ✅ Build confidence through continuous improvement
  • ✅ Become a dependable member of the pharmacy team
  • ✅ Accept and apply constructive feedback
  • ✅ Ask appropriate questions at appropriate times
  • ✅ Avoid common mistakes made by new employees
  • ✅ Demonstrate professionalism consistently
10.5.3 Why the First 90 Days Matter

Most employers use the first three months to determine whether a new employee is a good fit for the organization.

📌 During this period they evaluate:
  • Professionalism
  • Reliability
  • Attendance
  • Communication skills
  • Teamwork
  • Accuracy
  • Ability to learn
  • Work ethic
  • Adaptability
  • Patient interaction
  • Initiative
  • Overall attitude
💡 Many employers would rather hire someone who is eager to learn and dependable than someone with extensive experience but a poor attitude. Your first 90 days are your opportunity to demonstrate your potential.
10.5.4 Understanding the Probationary Period

Many Canadian employers have a probationary period, often lasting three months, although the length varies by employer.

✅ During probation:
  • You receive orientation and training
  • Your performance is monitored
  • Supervisors provide coaching and feedback
  • You become familiar with pharmacy procedures
  • Both you and your employer determine whether the position is a good fit
⚠️ Treat every day during probation as part of your interview.
10.5.5 Week 1: Observe, Learn, and Listen

Your first week is about learning—not proving that you know everything.

📌 Focus on:
  • Learning coworkers' names
  • Understanding the pharmacy layout
  • Becoming familiar with the workflow
  • Learning software systems
  • Understanding workplace policies
  • Watching experienced staff
  • Taking notes
  • Asking thoughtful questions
❌ Avoid trying to change existing processes before understanding why they exist.
📝 Real Pharmacy Scenario:

Michael notices that every prescription basket is colour coded.

Instead of assuming the colours are unimportant, he asks his trainer to explain the system.

He learns that each colour represents a different stage of prescription processing, helping prevent errors and improve workflow.

By asking first, Michael avoids confusion and demonstrates a willingness to learn.
10.5.6 Building Trust

Trust is earned gradually through consistent actions.

✅ Supervisors trust employees who:
  • Arrive on time
  • Keep commitments
  • Follow procedures
  • Admit mistakes
  • Maintain confidentiality
  • Complete assigned work
  • Communicate honestly
✅ Coworkers trust employees who:
  • Offer assistance
  • Share information
  • Respect others
  • Support the team
  • Avoid workplace gossip
📌 Patients trust employees who:
  • Listen respectfully
  • Protect privacy
  • Communicate professionally
  • Demonstrate compassion
  • Follow through on promises

Trust is built one interaction at a time.

10.5.7 Learning Quickly

Every pharmacy has unique procedures, even if the software and medications are similar.

✅ Successful employees:
  • Take notes
  • Carry a small notebook or approved digital note-taking tool if permitted
  • Review procedures after work
  • Learn from repetition
  • Ask questions
  • Observe experienced coworkers
💡 Do not rely solely on memory during the first few weeks. Writing down important procedures reduces mistakes.
10.5.8 Taking Initiative

Initiative means recognizing what needs to be done and acting appropriately without waiting to be told every time.

✅ Examples include:
  • Restocking shelves
  • Organizing workstations
  • Returning misplaced medications
  • Cleaning counters
  • Preparing labels
  • Helping coworkers during busy periods
  • Offering assistance when appropriate
⚠️ However, initiative does not mean performing tasks beyond your training or scope of responsibility. If you are unsure whether you should perform a task, ask first.
10.5.9 Developing Confidence

Confidence develops through preparation, practice, and experience.

Confidence does not mean pretending to know everything.

✅ Professional confidence means:
  • Being willing to learn
  • Admitting when you do not know something
  • Asking for clarification
  • Trusting your growing knowledge
  • Remaining calm under pressure
💡 Every experienced pharmacy professional was once a beginner.
10.5.10 Becoming Dependable

Dependability is one of the qualities employers value most.

✅ Dependable employees:
  • Arrive early
  • Meet deadlines
  • Complete assigned tasks
  • Communicate when problems arise
  • Follow workplace procedures
  • Keep commitments

Dependability creates confidence among coworkers and supervisors. People naturally rely on employees who consistently follow through.

10.5.11 Accepting Feedback Professionally

Receiving feedback is an essential part of learning.

Constructive feedback helps identify areas for improvement.

✅ When receiving feedback:
  • Listen without interrupting
  • Avoid becoming defensive
  • Ask questions if needed
  • Thank the person
  • Apply the suggestions
❌ Poor response: "I've always done it this way."
✅ Professional response: "Thank you for explaining that. I'll make that adjustment."
💡 Remember that feedback is intended to improve performance, not criticize you personally.
10.5.12 Asking Appropriate Questions

Good questions demonstrate curiosity and professionalism.

✅ Appropriate questions include:
  • "Could you show me that process one more time?"
  • "Where can I find the procedure manual?"
  • "Who should I notify if this situation occurs?"
  • "Would you like me to complete this task before starting the next one?"
❌ Avoid repeatedly asking the same question if the answer has already been explained and documented. Take notes whenever possible.
10.5.13 Knowing When to Ask for Help

Patient safety always comes first.

📌 Ask for help when:
  • You are unsure about a prescription
  • A patient asks a clinical question
  • You notice a possible error
  • You are unfamiliar with a procedure
  • A situation becomes emotionally difficult
  • You encounter software problems you cannot resolve
💡 Asking for help demonstrates professionalism—not weakness.
10.5.14 Working Effectively With Your Team

Healthcare is a team effort.

✅ Strong team members:
  • Communicate clearly
  • Respect everyone
  • Share responsibilities
  • Offer assistance
  • Support coworkers during busy periods
  • Celebrate team successes
❌ Avoid saying: "That's not my job."

✅ Instead say: "I've finished my work. Is there anything else I can help with?"

This simple statement demonstrates initiative and teamwork.
10.5.15 Demonstrating Professionalism Every Day

Professionalism is demonstrated through daily habits.

✅ Examples include:
  • Greeting coworkers each morning
  • Wearing a clean uniform
  • Maintaining personal hygiene
  • Being punctual
  • Protecting patient confidentiality
  • Speaking respectfully
  • Remaining calm during stressful situations
  • Maintaining a positive attitude
  • Following workplace policies
  • Being honest

Professionalism is reflected in both small and large actions.

10.5.16 Working Independently

As you gain experience, supervisors will gradually trust you with greater responsibility.

✅ Working independently means:
  • Managing routine tasks without constant reminders
  • Following established procedures
  • Recognizing when assistance is required
  • Organizing your workload
  • Completing work accurately
💡 Independence develops gradually through demonstrated competence. Never hesitate to ask questions when patient safety may be affected.
10.5.17 Common Mistakes Made by New Employees

Many mistakes are completely avoidable.

❌ Examples include:
  • Arriving late
  • Using personal phones excessively
  • Trying to impress others by pretending to know everything
  • Avoiding questions
  • Ignoring feedback
  • Becoming defensive
  • Speaking negatively about coworkers
  • Discussing confidential information
  • Rushing to finish tasks
  • Forgetting to ask for help
  • Failing to document important information
  • Taking shortcuts

Learning from these mistakes early helps build a successful career.

10.5.18 Time Management During Your First Months

Initially, many new employees work more slowly. This is normal.

✅ Focus on:
  • Accuracy first
  • Speed later
  • Staying organized
  • Prioritizing urgent work
  • Completing one task correctly before beginning another
⚠️ Never sacrifice patient safety for speed.
10.5.19 Managing Stress and Anxiety

It is normal to feel nervous during your first few weeks.

Common concerns include:

  • Fear of making mistakes
  • Learning new software
  • Remembering procedures
  • Meeting coworkers
  • Serving patients independently
✅ Helpful strategies include:
  • Preparing before each shift
  • Taking notes
  • Asking questions
  • Practicing self-care
  • Maintaining realistic expectations
  • Celebrating small successes
💡 Remember that learning takes time.
10.5.20 Building Positive Relationships

Professional relationships make work more enjoyable and improve teamwork.

✅ Simple ways to build relationships include:
  • Introduce yourself confidently
  • Learn coworkers' names
  • Be approachable
  • Offer assistance
  • Express appreciation
  • Be respectful
  • Avoid gossip
  • Maintain professionalism

People enjoy working with individuals who are dependable, respectful, and positive.

10.5.21 Demonstrating a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset means believing that abilities improve through learning and practice.

✅ Employees with a growth mindset:
  • Welcome challenges
  • Learn from mistakes
  • Accept feedback
  • Continue learning
  • Seek improvement
❌ Instead of saying: "I can't do this."
✅ Say: "I haven't mastered this yet."

This small change reflects a commitment to lifelong learning.

10.5.22 Your Professional Reputation Begins Immediately

Your reputation begins on your very first shift.

📌 Coworkers notice:
  • Whether you arrive on time
  • How you treat patients
  • Whether you help others
  • Your willingness to learn
  • Your attitude
  • Your honesty
  • Your work ethic

Supervisors remember employees who consistently demonstrate professionalism.

✅ A strong reputation often leads to:
  • Positive performance evaluations
  • Additional responsibilities
  • Better references
  • Promotions
  • Leadership opportunities
10.5.23 90-Day Success Checklist
☐ Arrived on time every shift
☐ Learned coworkers' names
☐ Understood pharmacy workflow
☐ Learned software basics
☐ Asked appropriate questions
☐ Accepted feedback positively
☐ Demonstrated professionalism
☐ Maintained confidentiality
☐ Worked effectively with the team
☐ Offered assistance during busy periods
☐ Built positive relationships
☐ Continued learning each week
10.5.24 Interactive Scenarios

📝 Scenario 1: The Misfiled Prescription

You notice that a prescription appears to have been placed in the wrong pickup bin. You're not 100% sure, but you suspect an error. What do you do?

✅ Professional Response:
Immediately inform the pharmacist. Say: "I noticed this prescription in the wrong bin. I'm not certain, but I wanted to bring it to your attention before it's dispensed."

Patient safety is always the priority. Speaking up about potential errors demonstrates professionalism and integrity.

📝 Scenario 2: The Overwhelming First Week

It's your third day and you're feeling overwhelmed by all the new information. You're worried you'll forget important procedures. What should you do?

✅ Professional Response:
Take a deep breath and recognize that it's normal to feel overwhelmed. Continue taking notes, ask clarifying questions, and review your notes after work. If you're still struggling, ask your supervisor: "I want to make sure I'm learning correctly. Could we review this procedure one more time?"

It's normal to feel overwhelmed during the first week. Asking for clarification shows dedication, not failure.

📝 Scenario 3: The Coworker Who's Not Friendly

One of your coworkers seems unfriendly and doesn't make an effort to welcome you. What should you do?

✅ Professional Response:
Continue being professional and friendly. Some people are naturally reserved or may be under stress. Greet them politely, offer help when appropriate, and give them time to warm up. If the behaviour continues, focus on building relationships with other team members and let your work speak for itself.

You can't control how others behave, but you can control how you respond. Professionalism is about your actions, not others' reactions.

📝 Scenario 4: The Supervisor's Feedback

Your supervisor gives you constructive feedback about your work. You feel embarrassed and want to defend yourself. What do you do?

✅ Professional Response:
Listen carefully without interrupting. Say: "Thank you for the feedback. I appreciate you taking the time to help me improve." If you need clarification, ask: "Could you explain that in more detail so I can make sure I'm doing it correctly?"

Feedback is intended to help you grow, not embarrass you. Professionals accept feedback graciously.
10.5.25 First 90 Days Action Plan

First Week

  • Learn names and roles of team members
  • Observe the pharmacy workflow
  • Take notes on procedures
  • Ask thoughtful questions
  • Focus on accuracy rather than speed

First Month

  • Become comfortable with routine tasks
  • Improve software skills
  • Build relationships with coworkers
  • Accept and apply feedback
  • Begin managing tasks more independently

Days 31–60

  • Increase efficiency while maintaining accuracy
  • Demonstrate initiative by assisting the team
  • Improve communication with patients and colleagues
  • Continue learning pharmacy policies and procedures

Days 61–90

  • Perform routine responsibilities confidently
  • Demonstrate reliability and accountability
  • Work independently within your role
  • Seek opportunities to expand your knowledge
  • Meet with your supervisor to discuss your progress and future learning goals
10.5.26 Knowledge Check

Test your understanding of succeeding during your first 90 days. Click each option to check your answer.

Question 1: Why are the first 90 days important for a new pharmacy assistant?

A) They determine your starting salary
B) They are when you learn the most technical skills
C) They establish your professional reputation and demonstrate your reliability, attitude, and willingness to learn
D) They are the only time you receive training

Question 2: List five behaviours that help build trust with coworkers and supervisors.

A) Arriving late, taking long breaks, and avoiding work
B) Gossiping, complaining, and resisting feedback
C) Arriving on time, keeping commitments, admitting mistakes, following procedures, and communicating honestly
D) Working alone, avoiding others, and keeping to yourself

Question 3: Why is taking notes during training beneficial?

A) It looks professional
B) It gives you something to do
C) It helps you remember procedures, reduces mistakes, and shows you are engaged in learning
D) It makes you look busy

Question 4: Give three examples of taking initiative appropriately in a pharmacy.

A) Completing tasks beyond your scope of practice
B) Ignoring instructions and doing things your own way
C) Restocking shelves, organizing workstations, and offering help during busy periods
D) Telling others what to do

Question 5: How should you respond when receiving constructive feedback?

A) Defend your actions
B) Ignore it
C) Listen carefully, thank the person, and apply the suggestions
D) Argue with the person giving feedback

Question 6: When should you ask for help instead of trying to solve a problem on your own?

A) Never—you should always solve problems independently
B) When you're too busy
C) When patient safety may be affected, you are unsure about a prescription, or you encounter a situation beyond your training
D) When you want to impress your supervisor

Question 7: What are five common mistakes new employees should avoid?

A) Taking notes and asking questions
B) Arriving early and helping coworkers
C) Arriving late, using phones excessively, avoiding questions, ignoring feedback, and rushing through tasks
D) Being professional and learning procedures

Question 8: Explain the difference between confidence and overconfidence.

A) They are the same thing
B) Confidence means pretending to know everything; overconfidence means being humble
C) Confidence is trusting your growing knowledge while admitting what you don't know; overconfidence is pretending to know everything and refusing to ask for help
D) Confidence is for experienced employees; overconfidence is for new employees

Question 9: Describe how a growth mindset contributes to long-term career success.

A) It helps you avoid challenges
B) It makes you more popular
C) It encourages continuous learning, resilience, acceptance of feedback, and improvement over time
D) It helps you get promoted faster

Question 10: Create a personal 90-day action plan listing three professional goals you will work toward during your first three months as a pharmacy assistant.

A) Just focus on getting through each day
B) Wait for your supervisor to tell you what to do
C) Example: 1) Learn all team members' names within the first week; 2) Master the pharmacy software within the first month; 3) Build confidence with routine tasks by day 60
D) Don't set goals until you have been there for a year
10.5.27 Key Takeaways

The first 90 days are a critical period for establishing your professional reputation and earning the trust of your employer.

  • Reliability, punctuality, honesty, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are often valued as highly as technical skills
  • Confidence develops through preparation, practice, feedback, and experience—not by pretending to know everything
  • Asking thoughtful questions, accepting constructive feedback, and speaking up about potential concerns demonstrate professionalism and commitment to patient safety
  • Small, consistent actions each day build trust with pharmacists, coworkers, and patients, laying the foundation for long-term career success

Remember: Every experienced pharmacy professional was once a beginner. Your attitude, reliability, and willingness to learn matter more than knowing everything on day one.

PreviousNext