Executive next steps: making things happen

Executives often ask me how they should go about advancing their careers – perhaps to move into a more senior position, shift from a staff role to managing a P&L, or be considered as a potential CEO.

Like most things, if it's worth doing, it's worth having a comprehensive plan in place to make it happen. Some of the most important things you can do are:

1. Understand your world of opportunities
Map out your objectives, taking a broad perspective on opportunities in a range of sectors that might be relevant to you, developing a good understanding of how executive search works, and updating your CV to show how your skills match the needs of the employers you'd like to target (you'd be surprised how many people don't do this).

2. Get on the radar
Take targeted, proactive steps to be visible as a potential candidate. Communicate your ideas – discreetly of course – to people who might be able to help, put yourself forward for speaking appointments and make sure you're represented in the best possible light on Linked In and AESC Blue Steps.

3. Prepare prepare prepare
When you're talking to an executive search firm, treat them as you would a prospective employer – because that's who they're representing. Treat every conversation as an audition by presenting yourself professionally and doing enough research to ensure you have a thoughtful answer for every question that comes your way.

Stephen Connelly
The new Pro Vice Chancellor International and Development for RMIT

Sue Hunt
The new Executive Director of The Royal Children's Hospital Foundation

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