There are many things to prepare for when landing in a new and bigger role, keys to success that are so fundamental, I wrote a paper about it.

But what about the time leading up to that promotion, when you’re considering potential paths and opportunities?

I typically see four areas where clients do themselves a disservice:

  • Not stretching to think bigger or big enough
  • Not considering opportunities that don’t directly relate to their current position
  • Not checking in with what they might actually want to do (and be challenged by)
  • Not thinking strategically for where they want to go

Four suggestions:

  • Get input and guidance from people and perspectives you trust, people who know the playing field, and know you. These could be mentors inside your organization, peers outside, and an executive coach and advisor.  Or a combination thereof.
  • Know where you get energy, what kinds of problems you like to solve, the size of the team you like to lead, where you’re curious, and, conversely, what feels like drudgery. Sometimes the allure is more appealing than the role, and that’s helpful to discern.
  • Think big and strategically, considering the opportunities that lie beyond the very next. Perhaps the most imminent role isn’t your ideal, but the one that it positions you for, is.
  • Build relationships and visibility across your organization and industry.

 

On September 15th at 10am ET, I’ll be discussing this and more during a 45-minute, cost-free webinar: “Leveling Up: The 4 Most Important Actions for Success.” 

To join me, hit reply.

This cost-free program is the last of 2026 and is limited in attendance to allow for discussion and questions.

For more on working with me directly, go here for consulting and coaching offerings.  I work with CEOs, senior executives, and their leadership teams to change outcomes and results.  If you’re preparing to move into a bigger, more visible role or have just landed in one, accelerating your success is one of my specialties.
For senior executives looking for strategic guidance with real-time access to me, this remains one of the most popular – and accessible – coaching programs.
The next openings for all executive coaching offerings begin September  15.
Go here to read what clients are saying about working together.