There are some lessons to be learned from Obama and the fly. Just to make sure everyone is on the same page, Obama was in an interview when he got buzzed by a fly.
He recognized the fly as a problem.
He waited for his opportunity.
He squashed the fly.
He celebrated.
He cleaned up the mess.
The learning is applicable to onboarding as well as other situations: Prepare in advance; have a bias to impact over activity; follow through.
Prepare in advance
Just as Obama stayed aware of what was going on around him, so should those moving into new positions. Stay focused on what's important. But don't be so focused that you miss opportunities or fail to recognize problems as they present themselves.
Have a bias to impact over activity
Obama didn't waste a lot of energy on the fly. He waited for the right moment and squashed it. Don't waste energy or time in activities that won't make a difference. Save your efforts for those that can make a real impact on important things.
Follow through
Just as Obama celebrated his success and then cleaned up the dead fly, so should new leaders celebrate early wins, thank those that help, and get ready for the next opportunity or crisis.