The Essentials for Executive Success: Be Seen, Be Trusted, Be Ready

Introduction

When I began my journey as a mountaineer, I wasn’t the strongest or the most experienced. Many saw me as the least likely to succeed, and honestly, I doubted myself too. But I persevered, not because I had every skill or perfect preparation, but because I embraced resilience, cultivated the right mindset, and was willing to grow through challenges. That same lesson applies to leadership.

If you aspire to become an executive, success boils down to three essentials: Be Seen, Be Trusted, and Be Ready. These aren’t skills you learn overnight; they’re a combination of mindset, resilience, and intentional action.

Be Seen: Visibility with Confidence

When I climbed Everest, people doubted me because I wasn’t the “typical” climber. But I didn’t wait for someone to validate me. I made my actions visible through persistence and consistency.

In the executive world, visibility is crucial. Here’s how to ensure you’re seen:

??? ????????? Showcase Your Contributions: Don’t rely on your work to speak for itself. Share your achievements in a way that highlights their impact on the organization.

??? ????????? Speak Up Strategically: Use meetings as an opportunity to share thoughtful insights. Confidence comes from preparation, so know your numbers and connect your ideas to the bigger picture.

??? ????????? Reframe Self-Promotion: Think of it as value-sharing. You’re not boasting—you’re ensuring your contributions are recognized and benefit the team.

Mindset Lesson: Confidence isn’t about being loud; it’s about owning your value. Believe in the importance of your work and share it authentically.

Be Trusted: Authentic Relationships

Trust was a critical factor in my mountaineering success. No climber reaches the summit alone, and trust among team members is non-negotiable.

In leadership, trust is built through authenticity and consistent actions:

??? ????????? Foster Genuine Relationships: Get to know people beyond the task at hand. Relationships based on trust and respect build your influence.

??? ????????? Communicate with Empathy: Understand your audience’s needs and tailor your communication to resonate with them. Trust grows when people feel heard and understood.

??? ????????? Be Vulnerable: Admit when you don’t have all the answers. Vulnerability makes you relatable and strengthens trust.

Mindset Lesson: Authenticity is the foundation of trust. People follow leaders who are genuine, consistent, and empathetic.

Be Ready: Growth Through Resilience

I wasn’t “ready” for many of the mountains I climbed. Aconcagua took me three attempts. Denali required three summit pushes. Each failure wasn’t a setback—it was an opportunity to learn, build skills, and grow stronger.

Readiness isn’t about perfection; it’s about stepping into challenges with the mindset to grow. Here’s how:

??? ????????? Take the Leap: Don’t wait until you have every skill to pursue the next opportunity. Leaders grow into roles by taking action.

??? ????????? Learn on the Job: Treat every challenge as a chance to build the skills you lack. Growth comes from doing, not waiting.

??? ????????? Embrace Resilience: Setbacks will happen, but resilience helps you keep moving forward. Reflect on lessons, adjust, and try again.

Mindset Lesson: You don’t need to have it all figured out to be ready. With the right mindset, you’ll create opportunities to grow as you go.

Conclusion: The Role of Coaching in Leadership Growth

Climbing mountains taught me that success isn’t about being the strongest or the best-prepared—it’s about resilience, mindset, and strategic growth. These are the same principles I bring into my coaching.

If you’re ready to be seen, be trusted, and be ready for executive success, let’s work together. My coaching program is designed to help you strengthen your mindset, create a strategic career roadmap, and navigate challenges with confidence.

Reach out to me, and let’s discuss how we can accelerate your journey to executive success.