The First 90 Days
by Michael Watkins
Key Concepts
Accelerate Learning
Rapidly grasp the organization's culture, politics, and technical challenges.
Secure Early Wins
Deliver tangible results quickly to build credibility and momentum.
Negotiate Success
Proactively define expectations, resources, and timelines with your boss.
Align Stakeholders
Understand and manage the expectations of bosses, peers, and subordinates.
Build Your Team
Assess, align, and develop your direct reports for optimal performance.
Create Momentum
Systematically plan and execute actions that build positive organizational energy.
Action Items
Develop a detailed 90-day transition plan focusing on learning, strategy, and team.
Identify and deliver one or two critical 'early wins' within the first few weeks.
Schedule one-on-one meetings with all key stakeholders to understand their perspectives.
Clearly negotiate expectations and resources with your boss from day one.
Diagnose the organizational situation (startup, turnaround, realignment, sustaining success) to tailor your approach.
Assess your team's capabilities and make necessary personnel changes swiftly.
Core Thesis
Successful transitions in new leadership roles demand a structured, proactive approach to accelerate learning and achieve early wins.
Mindset Shift
Transitions are not passive onboarding periods but critical windows for proactive leadership and strategic impact.