A (career) road less traveled…
I was listening to a podcast yesterday that a friend shared with me called Driven by Insight, hosted by Willy Walker. The guest was Thomas Daniels, Partner at Spencer Stuart, specializing in executive placement.
At one point, the conversation turned to the early-to-mid-career, high performing, high appetite professional that aspires to the executive suite. A dominant paradigm that continues to emerge is the person believes they must change jobs and companies in order to acquire new experience, perhaps lead a turnaround, and build their resume. This contributes to the significant churn we see in the workplace and may not be the path that makes the most sense. Daniels’ advice…
Do what you do well and do it better than anyone out there. It reminds me of a conversation with Susan Chambers, retired EVP of the People Division at Walmart when she said, “Be world class where you are.” Oftentimes, emerging leaders forget that when the focus their energy on aspirational roles over their current one.
If you work for a good company, recognize it! After all, if you do, why would you leave for a (potentially) bad one? Seek stretch assignments within that good company. Seek assignments that provide a broader, enterprise view. This can be projects or committees that get you outside your familiar area.
Get involved in local organizations within your field. Seek exposure to what’s happening in your field in the broader marketplace with peers.
Continue your education.C From premier industry firms and conferences, post graduate work.
Get good mentoring. Understand whether you have leaders in the company who are looking out for you.
“If you don’t feel (like someone is looking out for you) and you’re not aligned with the values of the firm and you don’t feel like you have that mobility and upside, or if it’s a company you don’t feel like you can bring your whole self to, then you can start considering outside things.”
I think this is terrific insight for the strong leader in a strong company and being smart about managing your career. After all, it’s up to you which road you choose to travel.
It’s also terrific insight if you’re the executive in this equation, looking to retain and grow talent within your organization. Show them the road you have to offer, what it will take, and where it can lead.