Watkins’s narrative methodology in The First 90 Days is primarily informed by his extensive experience in the field of leadership transitions, management consulting, and executive education. Watkins adopts an action-oriented narrative methodology in crafting his framework for leaders taking on new roles. This methodology reflects the tone of the book, which is a practical guide designed to help leaders manage the critical initial phase of their transition effectively. The choice of this methodology is informed by the text's subject matter, as it aligns with the practical challenges that leaders face when entering new roles.

Watkins’s action-oriented methodology involves a blend of his personal action research (a circle of simultaneously taking action while measuring the impact of change), organizational psychology, and experiential learning. It combines elements of qualitative and quantitative analysis, but it focuses on real-world application. The primary benefit of this methodology is that it offers a structured approach for leaders to follow when transitioning into new roles. It provides a systematic and tested framework for analyzing a situation, identifying potential pitfalls, and taking concrete steps to ensure a successful transition. This action-oriented approach is beneficial for leaders who need tangible guidance and strategies during these critical periods.