As we near the end of Obama’s first 100 days, much is being written about what has worked or not worked so far.  Keep in mind that a new leader’s first 100 days are important far less for what is actually accomplished and far more for what seeds have been planted “that will bloom” later.

Jump-start strategic, operational and organizational processes

In our work with new leaders, we have seen the most effective of them use a large portion of their first 100 days to jump-start strategic, operational and organizational processes.  They work hard to get their people, plans and practices aligned around a shared purpose.

For enduring impact

So, as you listen to and read the various pundits’ views of Obama’s first 100 days, filter out the noise and focus on the plans he and his team have put in place, the way they are starting to work with each other and those around them, and how they are evolving their organizations.  In the end, it is these things that will have the most enduring impact.

George Bradt
PrimeGenesis Executive Onboarding and Transition Acceleration
Author of “The New Leader’s 100-Day Action Plan” (Wiley, 2009)
www.www.primegenesis.com