The First 90 Days in Government: Critical Success Strategies for New Public Managers at All Levels

I originally ordered this book because I thought it would help out my husband in his new job, but it turned out it was a better fit for me, and I read it cover to cover three times! Starting a new job as a coordinator for a state athletic organization, this book has been a lifesaver! It has fit my situation perfectly and the advice is always right on track. This has good info for anyone who reports to several different people with somewhat conflicting goals, and has a vocal public constituency, even if it's not a government job per se. Thanks for the assistance for the great start to my new job. I'm now 6 mo. in and it is going very well. I credit much of that to the organizational tips from this book. In response to the review that says a person should have all this figured out BEFORE taking the job, that would be ideal. However, I think my situation may be typical - the entire picture is often not laid out until after job is actually begun. I think that is especially true when it comes to learning the office politics and "who's who" in the job. Those are in-house secrets are are not routinely shared in the interview. My bosses, although friendly, gave me precious little hard info before the hire. It is very much a "create your own job description" within the framework of the larger goals of the organization. I had to actively work during those first few months to flesh out many of the concepts mentioned in this book. I would have stepped on many land mines in the process if I hadn't been forewarned. Also, Shaping the Game (Negotiation skills) book by Watkins is excellent as well! I bought both at the same time.

Your first 90 days in a new public management position can be the most critical time of your career. Few people move into new jobs without an occasional gaffe, but the important thing is to weather the transition and get your agency or department headed in the right direction. Peter H. Daly, Michael Watkins and Cate Reavis' book should prove a major asset for anyone entering government service, or anyone who has received a promotion and is moving into the big corner office with all the headaches that come with it. The book could benefit from a more detailed discussion on coping with the uniquely dysfunctional character of most government bureaucracies, but we strongly recommend its rational approach. It is particularly useful in describing pitfalls to avoid.

Useful in working with those new to the public sector environment or in a new managerial position within a government agency.

The book was an excellent review for me. I have been in management for over 19 years and recently undertook a start up assignment. I was able to go to specific chapters for refreshing my memory.

This is a version of The First 90 Days written for people going into new roles in public-sector organizations. To get the original book for business leaders, The First 90 Days: Critical Success Strategies for New Leaders at All Levels, search for "Michael Watkins" and click on the the book with the bright green and yellow cover. See also my other new book from HBS Press - Shaping the Game: The New Leader's Guide to Effective Negotiating. It's about all the critical negotiations that leaders need to conduct with bosses, peers, and direct reports, as well as externally with customers, suppliers and other constituencies.