It is easy to generate questions surrounding the challenges faced by executives today. For example, are “teamwork” and “executives” an oxymoron? Do “data analysis” and “executive creativity” exist in the same organization? When does “caring for the employee's well-being” conflict with “not tolerating” non-performers? The only accurate answer to so many questions may be that one individual does not have all the answers. The executive that seeks help from career development professionals may find the support they need to face challenges, learn from the experience and then move forward toward a better tomorrow.
~ Melanie Reinersman, M.A., insights@careerdevelopmentalliance.com
Photo by Craig Whitehead on Unsplash
FOCUS ON: Crisis Conditions in Leadership Roles
Pandemic-fueled challenges faced by executives in the world of work today can be addressed with the help of career development professionals. Leadership transitions, even among non-profit organizations, reveal the need for help to focus on the future. Read more about screening, selection and upskilling from Career Convergence.
YOUR LIBRARY: Good to Great
Jim Collins, author of the book Good to Great, emphasizes the need for executives to first “get the right people on the bus” then figure out where to “drive the bus”. His philosophy is that the “right people” will do everything they can to build a great company. They deliver the best best results regardless of the incentive system. Job seekers and those in hiring roles may need to take note of Collins' book. Read more.
COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY: Pros and Cons of an Executive MBA (EMBA)
Pursuing upper level management as a career goal may include a decision about pursuing an EMBA. Decisions about which school to attend, how to select a concentration, and options for on-campus versus online programs can be overwhelming, not to mention funding the experience. Whether or not the school offers EMBA students the added resource of career coaching may help the decision. Read more from Noodle.
FOR THE PRACTITIONER: Help Executives Have Difficult Conversations
Because executives have achieved successful careers based on their own individual styles, they tend to be resistant to changing what they perceive works. However, they might be inspired by new ways to look at the challenge of change. Starting small, being specific and providing feedback can overcome the complications arising from values misalignment. This is true also for the challenging conversations involving diversity, equity and inclusion. Read more from Forbes.
TOP TEN: Recruitment Challenges
According to Supply and Demand Chain Executive, challenges arise in three areas: the marketplace, the workplace and the hiring process. A skills gap may be fixed by cross-training, while safety concerns require increased communication. Executive decisions about incentive programs to address on-site work options, using surveys to clarify an inclusivity initiative and marketing corporate brand correctly may reduce recruitment challenges. Read all ten.