What Is The '90-day rule'? Why Are Organisations Using This Phrase more?

The 90-day rule is increasingly recognized as a piece of corporate jargon used by leadership teams, HR, and project managers to establish expectations and timelines. It often signifies the aim of achieving certain results within a 90-day timeframe.

Goals and Objectives

In workplace appraisals and one-to-one meetings across many organizations, goals and objectives are typically set with a 90-day deadline for completion. This approach allows employees to focus on incremental progress over this period, working through smaller tasks to ultimately reach the desired outcomes.

Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs)

Employees placed on Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) are often those whose performance hasn't met the expected standards. The PIP provides a 90-day timeframe to meet specific criteria. Depending on the organization’s policy, the employee may meet the criteria within this period or, if needed, be given a chance to restart or extend the plan.

Employment Probationary Period

For new employees, onboarding often includes a probationary period, commonly lasting 90 days, which serves as a transition period into the role. This timeframe helps both the employee and employer determine whether the role and the individual are well-matched—not only benefiting the organization but also ensuring the employee feels satisfied and engaged in their new position.

Business and Strategy Planning

When launching new initiatives, entering new markets, or implementing strategic changes, executives frequently adopt the “90-day plan” to test effectiveness and gather preliminary results. This approach provides valuable insights and minimizes risks before committing extensive resources for the long term.

Conclusion

The 90-day rule has become a practical benchmark across corporate settings, offering a structured timeframe that encourages focused effort and measurable outcomes.

By allowing this framework, organisations can promote accountability and productivity, giving employees and teams a clear path to success while allowing room for reflection and recalibration. Whether it's onboarding, performance improvement, or strategy execution, the 90-day rule keeps goals achievable and progress visible, setting the stage for both immediate and sustained growth.