When I assumed a leadership position at my organization’s headquarters, I was very excited!

During the first meeting with my boss, he explained this position was created to meet the requirements of a new law. He gave me the flexibility to define my role and responsibility.

Over the next couple of months, I conducted extensive research on the law, benchmarked best practices, and met with key stakeholders. During weekly meetings with my boss, we would discuss the information I had gathered. Working together, we developed a road map for our mutual success.

Now, you have been selected for your new position. It is both an exciting and nervous time. Why? Because the first 90 days will determine your long-term success.

According to John Maxwell, “Position is the lowest level of leadership…Positional leadership is based on the rights granted by the position and title.” But, position is not enough…

Therefore, how do align your priorities to ensure early success? Develop a 90-day plan! What are the components of an effective 90-day plan? The plan should consist of steps to be taken during the pre-start as well as after you start the job.

The pre-start period is the time before you start your new position. During this time, begin your listening tour by identifying and meeting with key stakeholders. Who are the key stakeholders? Your boss of course, but also your peers, direct reports, support staff, customers and clients.

[callout]Remember, your job is to also make your boss look good.[/callout]

Speaking of your boss, make sure you understand your boss’s expectations, communication and leadership style. Establish how your boss likes to communicate. It’s important to know what keeps him or her up at night!

Additionally, you want to review the organization’s business plan, priorities, performance measurements, and financial reports. Perform a SWOT analysis; strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions! People want to share their knowledge with you. Based on the information gathered, you can craft your vision for the organization.

Now, you’re in the chair, what are the next steps of your 90-day plan? While you want to continue to gather data, you will also need to take action and make decisions.

To create opportunities for early wins, engage with the culture. Start by observing the behaviors, attitudes and values of individuals in the organization.

[shareable cite=”Dr. Kim Moore”]As you begin to understand the organization’s politics, you need to build key relationships, early!”[/shareable]

Next you want to develop your short and long-term goals that are aligned with organization’s strategic priorities. Establish milestones and collect data to track your progress. Set-up a regular meeting with your boss to discuss your progress.

Once you have a clear understanding of the requirements of your position, you can implement your 90-day plan to achieve success.

Do you know the requirements of your position?

Your friend,
Kim

Dr. Kim Moore, guiding YOU to lead with confidence!

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Dr. Kim Moore

About the author

I'm Kim, your Educational Leadership Guide. I equip educational leaders with research-based and experientially learned educational leadership principles and best practices to promote student success.


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