When a CEO steps into the role, the focus is often on the first 100 days. But preparation should begin much earlier. The weeks—and sometimes months—between accepting the offer and officially starting provides a valuable opportunity to build (or evolve) relationships, reflect on the leader you want to be, and put the right support around you.
So, how can first-time CEOs use the period before day one to lay the groundwork for a strong start?
In this episode of Leadership Lounge, Emma Combe is joined by leadership advisors Ty Wiggins, Shannon Knott, and Marie-Osmonde Le Roy de Lanauze-Molines to explore how first-time CEOs can make the most of the transition period between accepting the role and officially starting.
They discuss:
“Every CEO transition introduces change, and every change is experienced through people.”
— Shannon Knott
Leadership Advisor, Russell Reynolds
Four things you’ll learn from this episode:
In this episode, we discuss:
[01.55] Why internally promoted CEOs have a “golden hour” before their appointment is announced—and how to make the most of it
[03.38] Why external CEOs can do all the right research and still struggle to understand how an organization really operates before joining
[06.13] What newly appointed CEOs should learn from the chair and individual board members before they formally start
[10.02] How to use feedback from the CEO appointment process to identify the strengths and blind spots that could shape your tenure
[11.16] Why thinking about your legacy before day one can help clarify the impact you want to have as CEO
[14.32] Why first-time CEOs should build a “trusted cabinet” and establish routines that help them sustain their performance before they need them