How Do New Hires Describe Their First 90 Days at TestDevLab?

Ever wondered what it’s actually like to join a new company? Beyond the job description and recruitment process. Or wished you could hear straight from someone who was in your shoes just a few months ago? We get it! There’s plenty of information out there, but at some point you start wondering: What would a new hire actually say?

So, we asked three of our newest team members to share their impressions of their first three months at TestDevLab. The surprises, the challenges, the support, and the lessons that stuck with them.

Here’s what they had to say, straight from the source.

1. Surprises & early wins

To start, we asked our new hires about their first 30 days, what surprised them most and what early accomplishments stood out.

“I didn’t expect everything to be so well-organized, and that I’d feel like part of a community, not just a workplace.” 

— Magdalēna Alma Zalcmane, QA engineer (Riga)

From day one, new hires noticed how welcoming and helpful everyone was, and how quickly they began to feel like part of a community. One reflected on the thoughtful everyday details and being included in smaller and bigger company events, even in the first weeks, which made a big difference. Another was struck by the variety of testing projects, highlighting that even early on, they could explore different tools, approaches, and challenges across projects.

Newcomers also quickly realized they could learn and contribute faster than expected. Some picked up technical terminology and ways of working quickly, while others were already suggesting improvements to processes.

“Getting to a point where I could suggest improvements so quickly was a real highlight.”

 — Marga Fimbauere, QA engineer (Vilnius)

“What surprised me most in my first month was definitely the people. Everyone at TestDevLab is so welcoming.”  

— Magdalēna 

Even in the first few weeks, it was clear that new hires are trusted, supported, and empowered to make an impact right away.

2. Challenges & lessons learned

Next, we asked our new hires which challenge taught them the most during their first 90 days in the company.

New hires are trusted with real responsibilities from day one, which tests time management, prioritization, and teamwork skills. Our recent hires reflected that juggling multiple tasks was challenging but rewarding, and that having a structured plan, a mentor, and a supportive team made it easier. They weren’t left to figure everything out alone. Meanwhile, learning-focused challenges, such as preparing for the ISTQB certification, gave them a broader perspective on software testing beyond daily tasks.

“Managing multiple tasks taught me how to prioritize and stay organized, even when everything feels important.”  

— Marga 

“Working under a high workload showed me the true value of teamwork and communication.” 

— Magdalēna

“Preparing for the ISTQB certification challenged me to learn new concepts and broaden my understanding of software testing beyond daily tasks.” 

— Līga Avotiņa, QA engineer (Liepaja)

By the end of their first three months, these experiences had done more than test their skills—they built confidence, hands-on experience, and the ability to contribute meaningfully from day one.

3. Support & settling in

We also asked what helped them settle in faster and how their team and/or mentor made a difference in their first 90 days.

“Honestly, those little perks, like having snacks in the office, made my first weeks feel much easier.” 

— Magdalēna

Of course, snacks alone won’t make starting at a new company magically smooth, but I agree, they’re a fun reminder that small thoughtful touches make a difference. Beyond the treats, having a clear structure and a mentor gave new hires a smooth landing from day one. At the same time, the constant support from colleagues (and knowing that no question is ever too silly to ask) made trying new things less intimidating and even a little fun.

“Having a mentor available the entire time was especially helpful.” 

— Līga

“Whenever I hit a wall or felt stuck, there was always someone ready to jump in and help. That support made the learning curve feel less intimidating.” 

— Magdalēna

“Being able to ask anything gave me the confidence to try things without fear of making mistakes.” 

— Marga

All in all, these reflections show that thoughtful everyday actions, approachable teammates, and a supportive mentor don’t just make the first weeks easier, they help new hires feel welcome, confident, and ready to contribute from day one.

4. Advice for future hires

Finally, we asked what they would tell someone if they were to join tomorrow or thinking about applying for an open position.

“Don't think twice - apply. You’ll be working with great people in a really solid environment. Plus, the company events are actually fun and a great way to meet everyone. It's a really welcoming place to start.” 

— Magdalēna 

“If you are looking for a place that helps you grow, this is the right place to be. Don't be afraid to share your thoughts and ideas, everyone here is rooting for your success.” 

— Marga 

“Don’t overthink it, just apply. It’s a supportive environment where you can learn, contribute, and grow professionally.” 

— Līga 

The message is clear: take the leap.

Of course, starting somewhere new will always come with questions and surprises, but hearing from those who’ve just been through it shows that the experience can be rewarding and even fun, especially with the right support and opportunities to learn from day one. And yes, a few snacks and company events don’t hurt either.

Take it from our new hires—dive in, trust yourself, and make the first 90 days, and everything that follows is your own adventure.