LME 050 – The First 100 Days As A Leader
Today, we’re talking about a game-changing moment in any leader’s career: your first 100 days in a leadership role.
Whether you’re stepping into leadership for the first time or transitioning to a new team, those early days are crucial.
In this episode, I’ll walk you through practical strategies and share real-life stories to help you hit the ground running and set yourself—and your team—up for long-term success.
Why the First 100 Days Matter
Let me tell you a story. A friend of mine, Laura, was recently promoted to a team leader position. She was thrilled but also anxious. On her first day, she dove straight into fixing problems and setting up new processes.
Within a month, her team was frustrated. They felt unheard, and Laura was overwhelmed. She told me in private, “I thought jumping in and solving everything would prove I was capable, but now it feels like I’ve lost the team’s trust.”
Laura’s mistake? She skipped the most critical part of the first 100 days: building relationships and understanding the landscape. These first few months aren’t about fixing everything—they’re about learning, connecting, and setting a foundation for success.
- Start with Clarity: Understand Expectations
One of the first things you need to do as a new leader is clarify expectations—not just your own, but those of your boss, your team, and the organization.
Example: Aligning with Your Boss
I remember coaching a manager, Tom, who started a new role at a fast-growing startup. He assumed his top priority was optimizing processes. But during his first one-on-one with the CEO, he discovered that the company’s real focus was on rapid hiring. Had Tom not clarified this early, he might have spent weeks on the wrong priorities.
When you meet with your boss, ask questions like:
- What does success look like in my role?
- What are the top three priorities for the team this quarter?
- What challenges should I be aware of?
This conversation ensures you’re aligned from day one.
- Build Relationships with Your Team
Leadership is fundamentally about people. In your first 100 days, your most important job is to build trust with your team.
The Power of Listening
I once worked with a new manager, Sarah, who inherited a team struggling with morale. Instead of jumping into action, she spent her first two weeks conducting one-on-one meetings. She asked questions like:
- “What do you enjoy about your work?”
- “What frustrates you the most?”
- “What do you think this team could achieve if everything clicked?”
By simply listening, Sarah uncovered hidden issues and ideas. Her team felt heard, and she earned their trust—without making a single change.
- Communicate Your Vision
Imagine this: You’re on a ship, and the captain says, “We’re heading somewhere great—but I’m not sure where or how long it will take.” Would you feel confident? Probably not.
As a leader, your team looks to you for direction. While you don’t need a fully fleshed-out plan in your first week, sharing an initial vision can inspire confidence.
Example: Sharing Your Why
When I started leading my first team, I told them:
“My goal is to create an environment where everyone feels empowered to grow and where we achieve results together.”
This wasn’t about specific tactics—it was about setting the tone for the kind of leader I wanted to be and the kind of culture I hoped to build.
- Establish Credibility Through Action
Your team will evaluate you based on your actions, not just your words. Credibility is earned by showing up consistently and following through on commitments.
Example: Delivering on Small Promises
A colleague, Marcus, once shared how he built trust with his team by acting on small issues first. During his first month, team members raised concerns about outdated tools. Marcus secured funding for upgrades within weeks.
“Fixing the tools wasn’t groundbreaking,” he told me, “but it showed my team I was listening and willing to act.”
Small wins like these can build momentum and establish you as a leader who delivers.
- Balance Quick Wins with Long-Term Goals
Quick wins are important, but don’t let them distract you from the big picture.
A Cautionary Tale
I recall working with a leader, Jake, who focused exclusively on short-term fixes in his first 100 days. While he earned initial praise, his team felt directionless because he neglected to set long-term goals.
The takeaway? Use your first 100 days to address immediate needs and lay the groundwork for sustained success.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Let’s talk about what not to do in your first 100 days:
- Trying to Be Everyone’s Friend: Your job is to lead, not to win a popularity contest. Focus on respect, not likability.
- Overcommitting: Don’t try to solve every problem at once. Prioritize and pace yourself.
- Ignoring Culture: Remember, it’s not just what you do—it’s how you do it. Align your actions with the team’s values and culture.
A Special Resource for First-Time Leaders
If you’re navigating your first leadership role—or preparing for one—I have exciting news! In April, I’m launching the Leadership Crash Course, designed to help new leaders succeed in just 30 days.
The course includes:
- Proven strategies for building trust and influence.
- Tools to set clear priorities and navigate tough conversations.
- Real-world insights from my own leadership journey.
Sign up today at berndgeropp.com/VIP to join the waitlist and secure access at an exclusive introductory price. This is your chance to accelerate your growth and lead with confidence.
Closing Thoughts
The first 100 days as a leader set the stage for everything that follows. By focusing on clarity, relationships, and balanced progress, you can make a lasting impact.
Thank you for tuning in to Leadership Made Easy! If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a colleague or leave a review.
Don’t forget to sign up for the Leadership Crash Course at berndgeropp.com/VIP .
Until next time, lead with purpose and inspire your team to greatness.
