The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter
by Michael D. Watkins · 2003
In a nutshell
Michael Watkins's playbook for succeeding in new leadership roles. Essential for founders taking on new responsibilities as their companies grow.
Overview
Michael Watkins provides a roadmap for leaders in transition—whether new CEO, joining a board, or taking on expanded responsibilities.
The Framework
First 30 Days
- Promote yourself mentally
- Accelerate your learning
- Match strategy to situation
- Secure early wins
Days 30-60
- Negotiate success
- Achieve alignment
- Build your team
Days 60-90
- Create coalitions
- Keep your balance
- Accelerate everyone
STARS Model
- Start-up: Building from scratch
- Turnaround: Saving failing unit
- Accelerated Growth: Scaling fast
- Realignment: Fixing drift
- Sustaining Success: Maintaining momentum
Each requires different strategies.
For Founders
- Applies to every new growth stage
- Transitioning from doer to leader
- Bringing on executives
- Role changes as company scales
Published by Harvard Business Review Press 2013. Updated edition. Global bestseller.
Reference
The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter — publisher / official page. Summary adapted from the Awesome Startup Books collection.
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