I recently had a conversation with healthcare leadership experts Kurt Mosley and Neill Marshall for a compelling conversation on why a leader’s first 90 days are among the most critical of their entire tenure. Drawing from their decades of experience interviewing and placing thousands of healthcare executives, Kurt and Neill share hard-earned lessons and vivid stories that reach far beyond the healthcare sector. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, a school, or a business, their insights on early leadership decisions offer a masterclass in transition strategy.
The First 90 Days: A Defining Window
New leaders often underestimate how much their initial months shape credibility and success. Kurt and Neill explain that the early period is when a leader’s reputation, trust, and influence take root—or falter. From cultural misunderstandings to missed opportunities for “early wins,” the guests reveal how what you do—or don’t do—in those early days sets the tone for everything that follows.
Their popular “90-Day Series” offers a detailed roadmap for navigating this high-stakes period, helping leaders make thoughtful choices that build strong foundations for future impact.
Lessons for Leaders in Every Sector
Here are some of the most important things to implement when it comes to leadership transitions.
- Start with listening. Great leaders resist the urge to act before understanding. Listening and humility build credibility far faster than pronouncements or sweeping changes.
- Mind the culture. Even the best strategies fail without cultural alignment. Early misreads of organizational dynamics can derail promising leaders.
- Use symbolic actions wisely. Small, visible decisions—whom you meet first, which issues you prioritize—send powerful signals about your values and priorities.
- Build relationships beyond your walls. Engaging your wider community and key stakeholders early strengthens credibility and trust.
- Boards matter. Support from the board or search committee plays a crucial role in helping new executives adjust and thrive.
Real Stories, Real Wisdom
Beyond frameworks and advice, Kurt and Neill’s conversation is rich with memorable real-world stories—examples of leaders who succeeded by leading with humility, and others who stumbled by acting too fast. The result is a conversation that blends practical guidance with inspiration, offering a powerful reminder: leadership transitions don’t happen by accident—they succeed through intention. If you’re stepping into a new leadership role, or guiding someone who is, this episode is a must-listen. You can listen to the podcast by clicking below.
🎧 Listen now: