How to PIVOT from Leader to CXO roles ?

Are you a Leader aspiring to be a CXO? then this article is for you. Congratulations on reaching where you are in your journey. You are now poised to take that leap into the executive level, but as you may know, a corporate career is like a pyramid, and it keeps getting narrower as you move up.

If you think you are ready to become a CXO, check your score with the Global CXO Quiz

Everyone at your level has an education, works hard and is aspiring to get to the next level. So, what is going to separate you from the rest?

You need a partner to guide you in your ascent to reach the pinnacle of your career. Someone who has climbed the corporate ladder and been a CXO himself. Someone who can help you with your blind spots and get you there quicker, so you avoid making mistakes. As a former CXO, professionally certified (ICF-PCC) and John Mattone (coach to Steve Jobs) certified executive coach, I have helped thousands across the world and can help you too.

If you are a leader who wants to earn more and become a CXO faster, then click here to learn about my Global CXO 90-day challenge.

If you are a CXO and would like to explore ways to excel and feel that I can help, kindly book an appointment for a free discovery call.

In a professional landscape that’s constantly evolving, the traditional linear career path is becoming a relic of the past. For? leaders aiming for CXO positions, agility and adaptability are not just buzzwords but essential skills for navigating the complexities of modern business. Jenny Blake’s insightful book, "Pivot: The Only Move That Matters Is Your Next," serves as a guiding light for those ready to embrace change and transform their career trajectory.

The Pivot Mindset: At the heart of Blake’s philosophy is the pivot mindset—a proactive approach to career development that encourages continuous growth, learning, and adaptation. Pivoting is about recognising when your current path is no longer serving your ambitions or potential and having the courage to seek new directions that align with your evolving goals and values.

Why Pivoting Is Essential for Aspiring CXOs:

• Responding to Change: The business world is in a state of perpetual flux, with emerging technologies and shifting market dynamics. Aspiring CXOs must be adept at pivoting to stay ahead of the curve and lead their organisations through transformation.
• Career Resilience: Pivoting fosters resilience by encouraging leaders to view challenges and setbacks not as barriers but as opportunities for growth and redirection.
• Innovation and Creativity: Leaders who embrace pivoting are more likely to foster a culture of innovation within their teams, viewing change as a catalyst for creativity and new ideas.

Strategies for Successful Pivoting:

• Assess: Begin with a thorough assessment of your current situation, strengths, and areas for growth. Understanding where you stand is crucial for determining the direction of your pivot.
• Scan: Look for opportunities that align with your skills and passions. This might involve seeking new challenges within your organisation, exploring lateral moves, or even transitioning to entirely new industries.
• Pilot: Before committing fully to a new direction, test the waters. This could involve taking on a side project, volunteering for cross-functional teams, or seeking mentorship in your area of interest.
• Launch: Armed with insights from your pilot experiences, make the decisive move to launch into your new path. This requires not just strategic planning but also the courage to step into the unknown.

Embracing the Pivot in Leadership Development:

For mid-career leaders, the concept of pivoting extends beyond personal career moves—it also applies to leadership style and organisational strategy. Embracing the pivot mindset means being open to changing your approach based on feedback, market trends, and the diverse needs of your team. It’s about leading by example, showing that adaptability, courage, and continuous learning are valued traits within your organisation.

"Pivot: The Only Move That Matters Is Your Next" is more than just career advice; it’s a manifesto for the modern leader. For those on the path to CXO roles, mastering the art of the pivot is essential. Remember that the most significant move you can make is always your next.

You have 2 choices. If you are someone who would like to move up in your career and are getting overlooked for promotions, you can try and learn on your own whilst wasting a lot of time. Or it’s time to get yourself a strategic Global CXO coach. Someone who has been a CXO in real life and is certified globally (ICF-PCC).

If you are a leader who wants to earn more and become a CXO faster, then click here to know about my Global CXO 90-day challenge .

If you are a CXO and would like to explore areas where we can work together one on one, kindly book an appointment for a free discovery call.

You may enjoy some of our earlier issues of the newsletter.

1. 3 reasons to get up early every day
2. 3 ways to Focus on the IMPORTANT
3. 3 ways to manage an “Amygdala Hijack”
4. 3 Ways to leverage Neuro Leadership
5. 3 Keys for Career Success