Leadership Book Club: The First 90 Days by Michael Watkins

Ever wonder why some new leaders hit the ground running while others stumble? Kristen and Mike break down Michael Watkins' essential guide The First 90 Days - a book The Economist called "the onboarding bible." Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role or you're a seasoned executive making a change, this episode will help you avoid common pitfalls and set yourself up for success. Mike shares his recent experience applying these principles in his new role, while Kristen draws on her years of using this framework in executive coaching. Plus, some late-night recording session humor and a heated debate about the Oxford comma keep things light while diving into this meaty topic.

Highlights:

• The STARS Model: Understanding whether you're entering a Startup, Turnaround, Accelerated Growth, Realignment, or Sustaining Success situation
• Common traps new leaders fall into when using old strategies
• The "action imperative" trap: Why trying to make changes too quickly can backfire
• Building your team: When to keep people, when to make changes, and how to do it humanely
• Five essential conversations to have with your boss in your first 90 days
• How to identify and secure "early wins" that matter
• Managing the organizational "immune system" response to change
• Creating your personal support network and advice channels
• Balancing technical learning with cultural and political awareness

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• The First 90 Days by Michael D. Watkins
• Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
• What Got You Here Won’t Get You There by Marshall Goldsmith
• The Dichotomy of Leadership by Jocko Willink
• The Art of War by Sun Tzu
• Start With Why by Simon Sinek
• Boundaries for Leaders by Dr. Henry Cloud
• Influence by Robert Cialdini
• Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
• Managing Oneself by Peter Drucker

Podcast Website: www.loveandleadershippod.com
Instagram: @loveleaderpod

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Kristen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenbsharkey/
Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-s-364970111/

Learn more about Kristen's leadership coaching and facilitation services: http://www.emboldify.com