Leverage the First 100 Days as a New Leader
You only get one chance to make a good first impression.
Contributors
- 10 in-depth interviews with HR leaders, line of business managers, and executives.
- A nine-question survey to better understand the first 100 days of new leaders and what contributes to their short and long-term success. The survey attracted 59 respondents.
Your Challenge
- Over 50% of new leaders fail within the first 18 months of their assignment. By neglecting to leverage the first 100 days on the job, managers risk not meeting leadership expectations in the long run.
- New leaders are burdened by high expectations for success based on achievements in previous roles, but often do not have the tools or information to perform well in their new position.
- New leaders who attempt to make drastic changes or a major impact without fully understanding the corporate landscape will alienate their team, their peers, and their boss.
Our Advice
Critical Insight
- New leaders cannot successfully onboard themselves. They need to engage their spheres of influence to guide them through their first 100 days and beyond.
- New leaders need to focus on learning, listening, and gaining a cultural understanding throughout their earliest days. Forming a solid network is invaluable.
- A combined effort on the part of HR, senior managers, peers, staff members, and of course, the new leader will propel the leader to achieve shared goals.
- Divide the first 100 days of a new leadership position into 30 to 40 day phases where the new leader can focus on developing knowledge and forming an iterative long-term strategy.
Impact and Result
- New leaders must integrate into the larger organizational culture by leveraging relationships within their spheres of influence.
- Effectively set up and conduct information-gathering and routine meetings with key stakeholders.
- Strategize for the first 100 days on the job to build a solid foundation for long-term success.
1. Understand the phased approach to a leader's first 100 days
Effectively guide leaders into their new role.
2. Record initial team assessments
Test assumptions with stakeholders.
3. Conduct a SWOT Analysis
Learn the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that affect the department or organization.
4. Organize and write a strategic plan
Gain feedback and buy-in for the strategy.
5. Solicit a 360 review from staff and management
Collect feedback to improve leadership skills.
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