The First 90 Days: Steps to Succeed as a New Leader in 2025

At Inspired Search, the executive search division of Inspired, it’s our privilege to introduce publishing leaders to prospective employers but we know that the introduction is only the beginning. We remain in contact with clients and candidates far beyond an acceptance of a new leadership position and today wanted to bring to you some of our top tips in making a success of those critical first 90 days of a new leadership role. 

1. Understand the Landscape

• Engage With Key Stakeholders: Proactively meet with employees, customers, and partners to gain insights into their expectations, concerns, and goals.
• Analyse Data and Trends: Dive into performance metrics, industry trends, and organisational history to fully grasp where your organisation and products stand, what is performing well and what needs focus, perhaps perform a SWOT analysis 
• Foster Curiosity: Approach your role with genuine interest, asking insightful questions to uncover opportunities and challenges.

2. Establish Your Vision

• Define Clear Goals: Articulate what success looks like, both in the short and long term, and ensure alignment with the organisation's mission.
• Identify Quick Wins: Implement initiatives that yield early, visible results to boost morale and credibility.
• Focus on Long-Term Impact: Balance immediate actions with foundational work that positions the organisation for sustained growth.

3. Build Relationships

• Create Trust: Be approachable, empathetic, and authentic in your interactions with team members and stakeholders.
• Encourage Dialogue: Actively listen to feedback and ideas, creating an environment where everyone feels heard and valued.
• Network Strategically: Connect with leaders inside and outside your organisation for advice and fresh perspectives.

4. Communicate Effectively

• Be Transparent: Share your plans, challenges, and progress openly with your team and stakeholders.
• Create Regular Touchpoints: Establish clear communication channels, whether through team meetings, newsletters, or individual check-ins.
• Adapt Your Approach: Tailor your communication style to resonate with different audiences, ensuring clarity and buy-in.

5. Model Leadership

• Lead by Example: Demonstrate the behaviours and values you wish to see across the organisation.
• Make Decisive Choices: Take responsibility for tough decisions, balancing confidence with compassion. The first three months might be too early to be taking huge action but you’ll want to show your exec team that you’re prepared and able to make such decisions, and kindly. 
• Be Resilient and Adaptive: Stay agile and willing to pivot your approach as new challenges and insights arise.

6. Inspire and Empower

• Motivate Your Team: Share your vision in a way that energises and unites everyone toward a common goal.
• Develop Future Leaders: Identify and nurture talent within your team to create a robust leadership pipeline.
• Celebrate Success: Recognize achievements, both big and small, to maintain momentum and foster a positive culture.

Your first 90 days as a leader are an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. By staying curious, intentional, and connected, you can build trust, align efforts, and set the stage for long-term success. 

For any further discussion on making leadership appointments, or indeed if you wanted to share your own success stories about your first three months with us, our CEO Suzy Astbury and  MD of Inspired Search, Abigail Barclay would be delighted to hear from you.