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Success Quote by Michael D. Watkins

“To succeed as Michael did with a new boss, it’s wise to negotiate success. It’s well worth investing time in this critical relationship up front, because your new boss sets your benchmarks, interprets your actions for other key players, and controls access to resources you need. He will have more…” quote by Michael D. Watkins
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““To succeed as Michael did with a new boss, it’s wise to negotiate success. It’s well worth investing time in this critical relationship up front, because your new boss sets your benchmarks, interprets your actions for other key players, and controls access to resources you need. He will have more impact than any other individual on how quickly you reach the break-even point, and on your eventual success or failure.””

Michael D. Watkins

About This Quote

Source Book: ''The First 90 Days'' by Michael D. Watkins, 2013

The excerpt advises that early negotiation with a new boss is crucial because the boss influences expectations, perception, resource access, and ultimately the employee’s success or failure.

In simple terms: Early talks with a new boss shape your success.

Key Takeaway

Negotiate expectations early with your manager.

Themes

career leadership management negotiation performance

Mood

pragmatic motivational strategic

Type

advice career leadership

When to use this quote

  • starting a new job
  • seeking promotion
  • project kickoff
  • team integration

Key Concepts

stakeholder alignment resource allocation career development organizational politics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What questions should you ask a new boss?
  • How can you build influence without formal authority?
A Different Perspective

Negotiation may be limited by power dynamics or lack of leverage.

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