Your progress on the core five work streams (assuming operational leadership, taking charge of the team, aligning with key stakeholders, understanding the culture and building strategic intent) is interconnected, like the rowers of a boat.

But if just one rower loses the rhythm, the boat will decelerate – no matter how well the others are doing. Likewise, new leaders who underachieve can be stalled by just one task. For example, they quickly get to grips with the business but they do not put enough time into engaging with stakeholders.