Pre-read: First 90 days – prelude; This is about strategies for leaders in new roles/jobs.

MW makes two points relating to initial 30 days. First, he says refrain from taking ground breaking changes and focus on learning in first 30 days. Second, refrain from key decisions before forming your informal network.

But that is easier said than done. You will have to make a call on few things. Steve Jobs says follow your instincts you will one-day be right. But this is about following standard framework when possible. We will use Steve’s dogma when pushed to it :-)

Remember, you are walking blind (and naked) in the first 30 days. Blind – because you don’t know the environment; naked – because you don’t know the informal network and alliances; In most cases, it is not possible for you to make the right decision just by yourself. So trust your boss’s decision. He/She is aware of the environment and current situation, certainly more than you. And, remember, your win is important for his/her win too. So the decision will be more grounded.

What if that does not work, what if you believe your boss is not making the right decision. Try telling what you feel. Mostly you should get a reasonable logic or may be they will brainstorm from that angle. This is also a great way to know about the environment. In the brainstorming, you will get to know key details about people, their preferences; system, its behavior; and strategy. Besides, you already took a call to take this job/role and this is not the time to judge. If you fail, you can always change course later or, perhaps, even change role/job. Given the choices you have made, you will give yourself a best chance to succeed if you trust your boss.