Making the Leap to the C-Suite

One of the most common career coaching questions is: “How can I make the leap to the C-Suite?” Of course, there are many more candidates than open executive positions. What secret ingredient do the few who make it to the top possess?   What wisdom or special characteristic separates them from the rest?   It is many things. If you have examined yourself honestly and are committed, consider these suggestions as you formulate your strategy to move to an executive-level position.

Leadership Skills

To be promoted to a leadership role, you need leadership experience and a comprehensive

understanding of business principles and practices. This includes full profit and loss (P&L) responsibility, bridge building, strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. Complementing that business knowledge, you must be able to garner the respect of others – this includes all of the people in the company, not just those that report to you. The ability to relate to and influence others is essential. Lastly, excellent leaders can articulate a vision and exhibit exceptional creativity, initiative, and dedication. Strong leaders lead by example and encourage positive morale that permeates the entire organization. Another critical element to a competent leader: giving credit where and when credit is due. Effective leaders are not a part of the problem; they are part of the solution.

Preparation

If you have the chops to lead an organization, but you lack high-level executive experience, you must prepare yourself to be a worthy candidate. Not all companies have executive leadership training. Pursue roles that allow you to develop your skills. Serve on executive committees or task forces, volunteer for lead roles on high-profile strategic projects, and get involved in other departments through joint initiatives. Outside of your company, seek leadership roles in professional, civic, and non-profit organizations. Board seats are often difficult to land. However, smaller non-profit groups in your city may offer an opportunity for less-seasoned managers to sit on a board or act in an advisory capacity.

Networking

Networking is crucial. Don’t skip out on corporate events because these gatherings provide the chance to get acquainted with senior leadership. To get ahead, senior leaders must be familiar with you. Also, build genuine alliances with managers from other functional areas. This can lead to your placement on core projects if these managers recommend you to their bosses for high profile engagements. As you network, remember to foster your brand as a capable leader.

Leveraging Quality Recruiters

If you are ready to make that leap, identify quality recruiters specializing in executive placements. At this level in the game, candidates are not commodities; you must sell yourself to that recruiter to be considered. You want a relationship with a recruiter who is a strategic partner. If you are a quality executive candidate, you should align yourself with a recruiter of the same quality. The lifecycle of a C-level executive position placement can be a lengthy one. The process includes search, selection, interviews, and negotiation. Keep in touch with your recruiter and ask for detailed feedback throughout the process. Like any other search, work multiple prospects simultaneously.

The Bottom Line

There are hundreds of intelligent, well-educated, and ambitious managers. A tiny fraction will break through to the C-Suite. Who is to say that you are not one of the few? You can't make that kind of leap without considerable drive and preparation. If you would like to discuss your career strategy, contact me.