The First 90 Days Proven Strategies For Getting Up To Speed Faster And Smarter
by Michael D. Watkins · 2013
Michael D. Watkins's take on business, the honest verdict is below.
Worth reading? The default playbook for any leadership transition, and still the best one. Read it the week you accept a new role, not after you've already stepped in it. Skip it only if you've never and will never change jobs or get promoted, everyone else needs it.
| Author | Michael D. Watkins |
|---|---|
| Published | 2013 |
| Category | Business & Money |
The Verdict
The default playbook for any leadership transition, and still the best one. Read it the week you accept a new role, not after you’ve already stepped in it. Skip it only if you’ve never and will never change jobs or get promoted, everyone else needs it.
anyone weighing whether The First 90 Days Proven Strategies For Getting Up To Speed Faster And Smarter belongs on their business and money shelf
you want a different angle than Michael D. Watkins's
Top 9 Lessons from The First 90 Days Proven Strategies For Getting Up To Speed Faster And Smarter
- Your first 90 days set the trajectory; move fast but with a plan, not on vibes.
- Reach 'breakeven point', where you create more value than you consume, as quickly as possible.
- Diagnose the situation before you prescribe changes; don't announce a turnaround on day one.
- Secure early wins that build momentum and credibility with the team.
- Negotiate your mandate and resources with your boss before you start, not after friction hits.
- Build your team deliberately; decide who stays, who shifts, and who goes early.
- Map the culture and unspoken power structure, not just the org chart.
- Different transitions (startup, turnaround, realignment, sustained success) need different strategies.
- Align with stakeholders by learning their expectations, not by assuming them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The First 90 Days worth reading?
Yes. It's the standard manual for onboarding into any new leadership role and preventing early failure.
What is the main idea of The First 90 Days?
Plan and act deliberately in your first three months to hit breakeven faster and avoid common transition traps.
Who should read The First 90 Days?
Anyone starting a new job, getting promoted, or taking an international or turnaround assignment.
When should I read The First 90 Days?
Before you start the new role, ideally while you're still negotiating the offer.
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