Your first 90 days in a new executive role are a critical window to establish credibility, build alliances, and deliver an early win. Navigating the political landscape and managing the expectations of your new team and former peers requires a deliberate, strategic approach. Our coaching provides a clear roadmap to help you thrive in your new role and secure your position as an influential leader.
A Real World Example
The Challenge
A senior manager in a UK financial services firm was excellent at execution but struggled to contribute to strategic discussions. They lacked a “big picture” view and focused too much on their team’s silo.
The Coaching Action
Used coaching to broaden perspective beyond daily demands. Conducted stakeholder mapping exercises to understand organizational impact.32 Used the “Six Thinking Hats” method to practice approaching problems from multiple angles.
The Tangible Result
Manager’s contributions in leadership meetings were rated as “more strategic” by peers in 360-degree feedback. They successfully proposed a new initiative that aligned with broader company goals, which was approved for implementation.
The Strategic Framework – Bridges’ Transition Model
The Challenge
Change is an event; transition is the psychological journey. Leaders who manage the change but ignore the human transition—the process of letting go of the old and embracing the new—will fail.
About This FrameworkCreated by William Bridges, this model makes a critical distinction between the external event of change and the internal psychological transition people experience. It outlines three phases of this internal journey: Ending, Losing, Letting Go; The Neutral Zone; and The New Beginning. This framework helps leaders understand that resistance is a natural part of the human process, enabling them to manage the emotional journey with empathy. |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the critical priorities for the first 90 days in a new executive role?
The critical priorities are to learn, align, and deliver an early win. A coach helps you create a structured 90-day plan focused on understanding the business, building relationships with your team and peers, and achieving a tangible result to establish credibility.
How can a coach help a new executive establish credibility with their team and peers?
A coach helps you establish credibility by focusing on listening before leading. We work on a plan for conducting one-on-one meetings with your team and key stakeholders to understand their challenges and perspectives, which builds trust and respect from day one.
What are the political dynamics a new executive needs to navigate?
A coach helps you map the organizational landscape to understand the key influencers, decision-makers, and informal networks. This awareness allows you to navigate the political dynamics effectively and build the alliances needed to be successful.
How does a coach help an executive who was promoted from within manage former peers?
A coach helps you navigate this tricky transition by establishing a clear and respectful shift in the relationship. We work on strategies for setting new boundaries, communicating your vision as a leader, and earning their trust in your new role.
What are the most important leadership skills to develop immediately after a promotion?
The most important skills are communication, delegation, and strategic thinking. A coach helps you quickly level up in these areas, moving your focus from doing the work yourself to empowering your team and aligning their efforts with the company's goals.