Career Mastery: A Framework for Achieving Your Full Potential

After two decades of working with thousands of executives and board members, I’ve consistently found three key areas where individuals seek advice:

• How to secure a promotion or pay rise within their current company
• How to transition to a new employer or industry
• How to shift into a portfolio career (consulting or project-based work)

In this article, I’ll share actionable strategies in each of these areas to help you achieve your full potential.

1. Securing a Promotion or Pay Rise in Your Current Role Many executives believe that hard work alone will lead to recognition and reward. However, I’ve seen countless professionals express frustration when these expectations aren’t met. The truth is, in most cases, they simply haven’t asked for what they want.

Here’s an approach that works: Direct communication with your boss. Instead of relying on vague discussions during annual reviews, have a focused conversation. For example, ask: “Mary, in 12 months, I’d like to be promoted to a more senior role (or receive a $20k pay rise). What specific goals do I need to achieve for you to support this?” This level of transparency shows initiative and ensures both parties are clear about expectations. Once you have those measurable goals, document and regularly update your boss on your progress. If they aren’t willing to commit, you’ll know where you stand—and can start exploring other opportunities. This level of self-advocacy can transform not only how you’re seen but how you’re valued.

2. Transitioning to a New Employer or Industry Did you know that over 80% of the best jobs are never advertised? This hidden job market is where the real opportunities lie. Employers often hire professionals who can solve their business problems, even when there’s no official vacancy.

If you’re serious about a career change, focusing solely on job ads or recruiters won’t cut it. Here’s what to do instead: Research your target companies, identify the decision-makers for your role, and connect with them directly—before they know they need you. Reach out to your likely future boss, not HR, as line managers are the ones with a broader strategic view of the business.

In my experience coaching over 1,000 executives, those who consistently adopt this proactive approach are often amazed at how quickly they land new roles—even in industries they previously had no experience in. It's all about positioning yourself as the solution to a problem they may not have fully articulated yet.

3. Moving into a Portfolio Career Like unadvertised full-time roles, consulting or interim positions aren’t typically posted online. To find these opportunities, you’ll need to apply the same principles as in point two: directly engage with your target organizations.

By stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing these strategies, you can take charge of your career trajectory and uncover opportunities that might otherwise have remained hidden.

Fortune favors the bold, and with the right approach, you can achieve a career that is as fulfilling as it is successful.