Sink or Swim

About the Author

Milo Sindell, M.S., and Thuy Sindell, Ph.D., are experts in the fields of business consultancy and leadership development. Milo Sindell is renowned for his work with Fortune 500 companies, including Intel and Sun Microsystems, where he provides strategic guidance and helps businesses navigate complex challenges. Thuy Sindell, a leadership consultant, specializes in creating customized leadership programs for executives and managers at Fortune 100 companies such as Cisco Systems, Gap, and Yahoo. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to their writing, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to succeed in their professional life.

Main Idea

"Sink or Swim: New Job. New Boss. 12 Weeks to Get It Right" by Milo Sindell and Thuy Sindell, Ph.D., is a comprehensive guide designed to help individuals make a successful transition into a new job. The book emphasizes the critical importance of the first 12 weeks in a new role, a period during which both the employee and the employer determine if the new arrangement will work out. The authors present five essential skills—Goals, Time, Knowledge, Team, and Image—that are crucial for thriving in a new job. They provide a week-by-week plan to help readers navigate their new work environment, build strong relationships, and establish themselves as valuable members of their company.

Table of Contents

1. Week 1: Case the Joint
2. Week 2: Get a Firm Grip
3. Week 3: Buckle Down
4. Week 4: Immerse Yourself
5. Week 5: Climb Onto the Observation Deck
6. Week 6: Ignite Your Star Power
7. Week 7: Do Lunch
8. Week 8: Map Your Coordinates
9. Week 9: Look in Your Rearview Mirror
10. Week 10: Perform a Reality Check
11. Week 11: Declare Victory
12. Week 12: Raise Your Sails

Week 1: Case the Joint

The first week on the job is all about gathering information and understanding your new work environment. The authors emphasize the importance of figuring out how your new company operates, both formally and informally.

"Knowledge and information are powerful, but having the right knowledge and information is power" (Sindell & Sindell).

To make the most of this week, focus on understanding your role, responsibilities, and the expectations your manager has for you. Engage in casual conversations with your new colleagues to build relationships and gain insights into the company culture.