Leadership Is More Than the C-Suite

Businesses must find the right people to fill four distinct types of leadership roles.

Companies spend billions of dollars each year on leadership development. And there is an urgent need to ensure that the next generation of executives is prepared to lead. But the overwhelming number of leadership theories and programs are confusing. What criteria should businesses use to judge whether someone is ready to lead? And how can decision makers know if someone is likely to succeed in a leadership role? Continue reading

Inside with Jo-Ann Mendles, CEO & President, Thirty-four Park, LLC

Interviewed by Larry Janis, Managing Partner, Integrated Search Solutions

LJ: Share with us some information about your current role and responsibilities

JM: I own and operate a professional services company, Thirty-four Park.  The mission of the firm is to complement its clients’ in-place executive teams and expert resources to accelerate break-through outcomes.   Through collaborative execution, the firm aims to support the stewardship of its clients’ goals.  Unique from traditional management consulting firms, Thirty-four Park brings seasoned Chief Operations leadership to tactically lead organizations to be more nimble and effective amidst increasing complexity, ambiguity and marketplace speed.  Continue reading

You’ve Been Fired: Now What?

by John Beeson

You’ve just received word that you’ve been fired. Or perhaps the company has gone through a re-structuring and eliminated your job — and you’ve been told that none of the managers you’ve worked with over the years have a position for you on their team. This comes as a shock to your system, especially if you’ve enjoyed a record of success up to this point in your career. While there are some practical things to attend to — negotiating your severance, signing up references, and agreeing with the company on a storyline about the reason for your exit — your most important action item is managing your own attitude to the situation. Continue reading

How to Explain Your Career Transition

by Dorie Clark

Shifting careers is often hard to explain. Whether you’re moving from one department to another in your own company or starting over in an entirely different field, you’re likely to face a litany of rejoinders: Why would you want to do that? Isn’t that a little risky? Are you really qualified? Others won’t raise any outward objections, but privately, you can tell they’re skeptical.

The most important step in getting others onboard with your career transition is crafting a compelling narrative. It’s a tool often overlooked by “professional reinventers,” but it can be a critical determinant of success in winning others’ support for your professional goals and vision for the future. Continue reading

The Most Overlooked Leadership Skill

80-peter-bregmanby Peter Bregman

Even before I released the disc, I knew it was a long shot. And, unfortunately, it was a clumsy one too.

We were playing Ultimate Frisbee, a game similar to U.S. football, and we were tied 14-14 with a time cap. The next point would win the game.

I watched the disc fly over the heads of both teams. Everyone but me ran down the field. I cringed, helplessly, as the disc wobbled and listed left. Still, I had hope it could go our way. Continue reading