48 pages • 1 hour read
Michael D. WatkinsThe First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter, Updated and Expanded
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2013A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Summary
Background
Chapter Summaries & Analyses
Key Figures
Themes
Index of Terms
Important Quotes
Essay Topics
Tools
BetaEssay Topics
What techniques does Michael D. Watkins use to underscore the significance of the initial days in a new leadership role as a pivotal period in the book? What broader implications does this emphasis carry for leaders undergoing transitions?
In what ways does The First 90 Days adhere to or deviate from the conventions of the self-help genre?
Watkins introduces the idea of “Virtuous Cycles.” To what extent does Watkins present strong leadership as a moral matter?
How does Watkins’s concept of the “break-even point” relate to The Significance of Building a High-Performing Team?
Watkins talks about the danger of falling into the “low hanging fruit trap” (93). How does Watkins use and mix metaphors throughout the book?
Watkins talks about “Cultural Adaption” as a key component of a successful transition. To what extent does the book consider cultural diversity for both leaders and organizations?
Explore the concept of “vulnerability” in the book. How does Watkins portray this quality?
Watkins advises leaders to create early wins in their new roles. What does the book convey about winning and losing?
The book emphasizes the role of “critical allies” in a leader's success. What is the significance of allies and enemies in the book?
Watkins ends the book by highlighting the importance of integrating transition acceleration with recruiting and leadership development systems. What is the effect of ending the book in this way? How does Watkins structure the book as a whole, and what is the impact of this structure?
