Author: Michael Watkins

Publisher: Coach Series; Unabridged edition

Pub. in: June, 2006

ISBN: 1596590440

Pages:  

Measurements: 7.1 x 5.3 x 1.3 inches

Origin of product: USA

Order code: BB00066

Other information: Reprint edition
ISBN-13: 978-1596590441

A bestselling book helping new managers survive the most critical first 90 days in a new position. Ranks #499 in books out of millions on Amazon.com as of January 31, 2007.

When transitioning to a new position, you can find countless volumes available that will be helpful. However, most books written on the subject are geared to a rather exclusive audience relating to upper management. CEO's and COO's can find a seemingly endless supply of resources. The First 90 Days by Michael Watkins reaches much deeper into the management food chain with techniques and strategies that are applicable whether you are at the senior management level of a Navy Seaman being promoted to 3rd class Petty Officer.

Watkins introduces what he terms the STaRS model, which teaches the newly promoted leader to first identify the status of the company for which you are involved, be it Start up, Transition, Realignment or Sustaining Success. This is critical to success, as each business modal must be approached with different strategies.

Though this book would be beneficial for anyone being promoted from within an organization, I personally believe is greatest value would be for an outsider first coming in to a new company in that it covers many things that often are overlooked by newly hired managers, such as culture adjustments and team development.

Above everything else, Watkins teaches the importance of timing. Newly hired or promoted managers all to often, make the right decisions, but at the wrong time. This goes back to the STaRS identification and the importance of knowing what mode your company is in before making changes.

The book reads quite easily. Watkins effectively gives real life business examples of successes and failures and does so in a way that these examples can easily be applied to countless situations. Whether you've just received your first promotion ever with only one subordinate under your supervison, or are taking over a Fortune 500 VP position with hundreds of people on your team, you will gain critical insight to how to succeed from this book.

(From quoting Monty Rainy, USA)

Target readers: New leaders at all levels, people who experience transitions in career, young professionals on their way up, MBAs and career consultants.