Leadership Transitions: The Watkins Collection (4 Items)

Prepare Yourself 29

it’s worth thinking beyond simply the financials, products, and

strategy. Regardless of your position, for example, it’s beneficial

to learn about the brands and products you will be supporting,

whether or not you’re directly involved in sales and marketing.

Focus, too, on understanding the operating model, planning and

performance evaluation systems, and talent management systems,

because they often powerfully influence how you can most effec-

tively have an impact.

Stakeholder Connection

It’s also essential to develop the right relationship wiring as soon

as possible. This means identifying key stakeholders and building

productive working relationships. As with David, there is a natu-

ral but dangerous tendency for new leaders ...