I would like to hear from the Executives in this Forum.

Anonymous

September 2,2022 at 1:47PM UTC

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I would like to hear from the Executives in this Forum. How do you break into an executive role?

I feel like I have done all I can to get to that level but for some reason I have not been able to get into an executive role.

I have a master's degree, years of experience in the IT field and various certifications. I am great at leading teams, hard working and a team player but every time I have tried to move up, I am either passed up for another male colleague or hear nothing back from companies or recruiters.

I would love to get feedback on how I can breakthrough.

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Barb HansenSeptember 2,2022 at 4:09PM UTC
I switched companies.
I gave my then current employer a few changes to promote me, and when they didn't promote me, I bailed to another company that hired me in an executive role.
At my previous company, I was proactive in my desire to get a promotion. I asked for a promotion (multiple times), I worked with my manager to create a promotion plan, and I worked that plan. My then manager and VP were fired, and the newly hired manager wasn't going to promote me so I left.
I read an article last year that a majority of promotions into executive roles happen because we move companies. If I can find that article, I'll post it as a response to this comment.
Sharon GrehanSeptember 2,2022 at 4:18PM UTC
Have you tried lateral moves to broaden your skill set before trying for that next promotion? In my experience, the people who get promoted to Executive levels have done multiple jobs within the organization and have taken more than one lateral move. Think about the broader aspects of your career growth and development, it's rarely linear to Exec level. I hope this helps spark some positive discussions with your manager - let them know what your long term goals are and ask for advice on the skills and experiences you should gain to help get you there. Best of luck!
AnonymousSeptember 2,2022 at 4:37PM UTC
I would consider upping your professional profile so you are a known expert?
I would consider panel engagements, speaking engagements, blogs, articles, and generally taking a strategic approach to building your brand.
This way companies come to you instead of you trying to figure out a way to get in.
AnonymousSeptember 2,2022 at 7:09PM UTC
I don't know if it will help, but I just ran across this article...
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/getting-overlooked-new-title-promotion-the-zone-lab-llc/?trackingId=W3vzRkhQRkSW8Wahfxw7Kg%3D%3D
AnonymousSeptember 2,2022 at 9:26PM UTC
I'm not sure how you define 'executive' but I've been an executive in different contexts: one a much smaller company and once at a very large, name-brand company. The latter was harder to get b/c it was political and frankly I got it because my boss was another executive (even more senior). The former was easier because it was an early-stage startup and the standards are just different.
Senior roles are harder, period, so don't get discouraged and keep trying! It may require getting in touch with some recruiters and knowing exactly what kind of executive role you're looking for.
Lara Ivey KauchakSeptember 3,2022 at 9:19PM UTC
If you have tried internally with your company, I would ask for feedback on why you are not moving up. Are there certain skills or qualifications you don't have yet? Alternatively, ask for a 360 feedback from your supervisor and tell them that you want to move to the next level. Try to get it documented in your performance review. I've found that often not everyone knows who wants to move up to the highest levels and they may be making assumptions.
I wasn't sure, but have you had a direct report? This is different than leading teams. This would be key to moving up. Specifically ask for one - could start as an intern, or someone else on the team.
Have you had budget experience? Another key qualification.
Find an executive in your company as a mentor. Executive roles are rarely filled through job postings. Having someone "inside" and at the table really helps. They can also help you determine what qualifications, skills (hard or soft) you might be missing.
MichelleSeptember 4,2022 at 12:26PM UTC
I would look outside your company! Typically income and promotions happen more when you change companies.
Susan JaneczekSeptember 9,2022 at 2:19PM UTC
You need to find anew job. This company is passing you over because they know they can get away with it and that you will accept the rejection and you won’t leave. I bet you anything the minute you turn in your resignation, they’re going remember there’s a Director executive level role for you. Do not except the counter. These people will give you a honeymoon for about two months and then I’ll treat you like crap again.
There are tons of jobs out there for IT people. You’ll find one within the next month. Do it! If you need help on interviewing let me know.
Susan JaneczekSeptember 9,2022 at 2:22PM UTC
Sorry I was trying to voice speak.
When you resign, Do not accept a counteroffer from your current company. I am positive they will give you one, If you accept the counter, it’ll be a honeymoon/wonderful job for the first two months and then they’ll treat you poorly again.
When you do get the new job, Be sure to ask for five or 10k more than what they are offering, also be sure it is an executive role. it sounds like you’re worth it.