I remember wishing many years ago that I could be a fly on the wall in the C-Suite meetings in order to better understand how and why decisions were made. When I finally got into the C-Suite, I realized that the way executives made decisions required a new level of critical thinking I had to master.
This developmental gap in my leadership training inspired me look for ways executives could be more transparent about the critical skills needed to join the C-Suite, especially for the aspiring C-Suite leaders could step in ready to showcase diverse thinking and innovation for the next generation.
So, why don’t we include the leaders of tomorrow in today’s conversations? Sure, there may be confidential matters that impact the company, but what about the other 75% of the time we spend behind closed doors?
The only thing standing in the way elevating and preparing your leaders is you.
How will the aspiring C-Suite leaders of tomorrow learn how to present information and make important decisions? Even more importantly, having them with a voice at the table will help us to think differently. Their unique perspective and innocent questions are needed to help shape their future. What prevents us from inviting them to the table? Nothing! The only thing that stands in our way is the conscious decision to invite them.
And while this piece is speaking to the C-Suite leaders of today, if you’re reading this and are an aspiring C-Suite leader, you can take control of your career now. Ask your boss to see if you can sit in on one of these meetings to observe and learn the process. Explain the value of gaining these insights and how they’ll make you a better leader. Bring those questions back to your 1:1 as part of your career development. By being proactive about your career, rather than wondering how decisions are made, you can learn the process now.
In an article from Forbes, 14 Smart Ways for Managers to Get to the Next Executive Level , there is a section that mentions being positioned for leadership. While career advancement can be based on merits and politics, being in the right place at the right time with the right advocates can be quite helpful.
If you google the personal development options for aspiring C-Suites, there is very little except a handful of articles of what to do to get to the C-Suite. All the content and advancement institutes are for the C-Suite executives already occupying that position. The vacuum in providing aspiring C-Suites is immense and I’m here to close that gap because I don’t want to see them struggle as much as I did.
For more information about C-Suite Academy (CSA) dedicated to the aspiring C-Suite leader, simply email me or connect with me for a quick chat. I can’t wait to help you be successful and reach your goals!
For more resources, you can listen to The Drop In CEO Podcast or check out my book The CEO’s Compass will help you get on track in days not months.
Resources
Good Reads
The CEO’s Compass: Your Guide to Get Back on Track by Deborah A. Coviello – I’m suggesting my book this week not out of self promotion, but as a resource that will help you if you’re a C-Suite Leader assess the talent landscape and make changes to better prepare your next level of leadership. I suggest this book to the aspiring C-Suite because I deeply care about you. You can make changes now in the book that will help you to be better prepared for being the leader you were meant to be.
Good Music
Pianist Marlowe Carruth’s Eternal Light – I often share what is happening in my life by the music that gives me join and this piece is akin to blazing a trail while experiencing joy. I’m starting to hit my stride with my business and creating offers that help the aspiring C-Suite Leader and this song affirms that work. If you need something to get you going on a project, this is a great song.
Good Advice
“All I want to do is see you successful and struggle less. I want you to live a
fulfilling life for yourself, your family and your community.”
–Deb Coviello