Rising through the Ranks – The Call to Lead Higher
In my years as a human resource professional, I’ve seen my share of amazing, good, and less call it what it is: very poor leadership.
I have seen that the higher we go, the more impactful our work is on those in our charge. Here are some key steps and considerations for those aspiring to lead at the executive level that will help you and your team find success:
Focus on the development of your leadership skills. These are the three areas to really focus your efforts:
Self-awareness: Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and leadership style.
Communication: Hone your ability to communicate effectively with individuals at all levels. The key here is to communicate to influence.
Decision-making: Practice making strategic decisions and taking responsibility for the outcomes. There is a huge difference when making operational and strategic decisions. An individual aspiring to the executive ranks must learn the difference.
Invest in continuous learning and education. Often, we believe because we achieve the position we’ve been working towards earning for a long time, we are done learning. The truth is, the learning is just the beginning.
Stay updated on industry trends, business strategies, and leadership practices.
Consider pursuing advanced degrees or certifications to continue to enhance your knowledge and credentials.
Build a Strong Network. Relationships, Relationships, Relationships!
Cultivate relationships within your organization and industry.
Attend industry events, conferences, and networking functions to expand your connections.
Demonstrate Results. It is not about perfection but you should always strive to accurately demonstrate results and communicate them regularly.
Consistently deliver on your responsibilities and exceed expectations.
Showcase your ability to contribute to the organization's success through measurable results.
Seek out challenging assignments. The rank of executive work is already challenging and yet that’s the job’s complexity.
Volunteer for high-profile projects that align with organizational goals.
Take on responsibilities that demonstrate your ability to handle complex issues.
Mentorship and Sponsorship. Seek to learn from leaders who have been in your shoes before, particularly those who have found success. Engage with those who can speak on your behalf.
Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and share their experiences.
Develop relationships with sponsors who can advocate for your advancement within the organization.
Strategic Thinking. The ability to “see the trees through the forest” and the impact of strategic movement is paramount.
Develop a strategic mindset by understanding the long-term goals of the organization.
Identify opportunities for growth and improvement and contribute innovative ideas.
Adaptability and Resilience. It’s easier said than done but in a corporate role it’sa must!
Demonstrate the ability to adapt to change and navigate through challenges.
Learn from setbacks and use them as opportunities for growth.
Executive Presence. As you walk into the room project who you are authentically and be comfortable in your presence.
Project confidence, professionalism, and a strong executive presence.
Develop effective presentation skills and the ability to influence others.
The journey to the executive level is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires dedication, continuous improvement, and a willingness to take on challenges. Is this your goal? Consider regularly assessing your progress, seek feedback, and adjust your approach accordingly.
