What to do when you're new: how to be comfortable, confident, and successful in new situations by Keith Rollag Summary

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About the Author

Keith Rollag, author of What to Do When You’re New: How to Be Comfortable, Confident, and Successful in New Situations, is a leadership professor and expert on organizational socialization and newcomer adaptation.

A faculty member at Babson College, ranked #1 in entrepreneurship by U.S. News & World Report for 25 consecutive years, Rollag blends academic rigor with real-world insights from his seven-year tenure at Procter & Gamble, including a pivotal international assignment in Japan that inspired his research.

His work on overcoming social anxiety in new environments draws from two decades of studies, surveys, and interviews, published in journals like MIT/Sloan Management Review and featured in The New York Times, NPR, and Harvard Management Update.

A former dean of Babson’s F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business, Rollag’s expertise extends to corporate training programs and executive education. His book distills actionable strategies for building confidence in unfamiliar settings, rooted in psychology and validated by global professionals.

Babson’s MBA programs, under his leadership, emphasize practical solutions for career challenges, reinforcing the book’s utility for entrepreneurs and professionals alike.

FAQs About This Book

What is What to Do When You’re New by Keith Rollag about?

What to Do When You’re New provides evidence-based strategies to overcome the anxiety of new social and professional situations. Keith Rollag, a Babson College leadership professor, combines 20+ years of research with practical advice on introducing yourself, remembering names, asking questions, and building relationships. The book emphasizes actionable steps to transform discomfort into confidence, making it a guide for thriving in unfamiliar environments.

Who should read What to Do When You’re New?

This book is ideal for professionals navigating career transitions, students starting college, relocators adapting to new cities, or anyone facing social interactions where they feel “new.” Rollag’s insights are particularly valuable for introverts, remote workers, and leaders managing team newcomers.

Is What to Do When You’re New worth reading?

Yes—readers praise its blend of academic rigor and relatable advice. Featured in Success Magazine’s “Best Books of 2015” and endorsed by The New York Times, it offers timeless tools for building social confidence. The 5-step framework for introductions and networking alone makes it a standout resource.

What are the main concepts in What to Do When You’re New?

Key concepts include:

• The Five Newcomer Challenges: Introducing yourself, remembering names, asking questions, starting new relationships, and performing new tasks.
• The “Risk-Reward” Paradox: Why avoiding social risks (e.g., not asking questions) harms long-term success.
• The 90-Second Rule: Making strong first impressions through prepared self-introductions.

What frameworks does Keith Rollag propose for handling new situations?

Rollag’s “Newcomer’s Roadmap” framework includes:

1. Prepare a “personal pitch” for introductions.
2. Use association techniques to remember names.
3. Ask open-ended questions to build rapport.
4. Identify “connectors” who ease social integration.
5. Embrace deliberate practice to master new roles.

What are notable quotes from What to Do When You’re New?

• “New situations are opportunities, not threats.”
• “The quicker you take initiative, the faster you’ll feel at home.”
• “Confidence comes from action, not the other way around.”

These quotes underscore the book’s theme of proactive adaptation.

How does What to Do When You’re New compare to The First 90 Days by Michael Watkins?

While both address transitions, Rollag focuses on social and emotional hurdles, whereas Watkins emphasizes strategic career moves. What to Do When You’re New offers more psychological tools for immediate interpersonal challenges, making it complementary to Watkins’ organizational strategies.

Can What to Do When You’re New help with remote work transitions?

Yes—it addresses digital-first onboarding, virtual introductions, and building trust remotely. Rollag’s “micro-connections” concept (e.g., brief video calls) aligns with hybrid work dynamics, helping newcomers establish visibility in dispersed teams.

What criticisms exist about What to Do When You’re New?

Some reviewers note the advice leans toward common sense, but supporters argue its strength lies in synthesizing research into actionable steps. A minority suggest more case studies would enhance practicality.

Why is What to Do When You’re New relevant in 2025?

With workplace turnover and global mobility rising, the book’s strategies for rapid adaptation remain critical. Rollag’s emphasis on “soft skill” mastery aligns with LinkedIn’s 2025 trend data citing relationship-building as a top career competency.

How does Keith Rollag’s background influence the book?

Rollag’s experience as a Procter & Gamble expat in Japan and 20-year Babson College researcher grounds the book in real-world and academic insights. His work on organizational socialization and leadership training lends credibility to the methods.

What are 3 actionable tips from What to Do When You’re New?

1. Pre-write introductions: Craft a 15-second “hello” script.
2. Use the “2-Question Rule”: Ask two openers in conversations to reduce awkwardness.
3. Track progress: Journal small wins to build momentum.