2 min readEnhancewell
Have you reached the top of your career ladder as a project manager? You've put in the time— climbed the rungs. And now, you're wondering whether the ladder stops here or if you can keep climbing.
The path from project manager to C-suite is, as Robert Frost would say, the road less traveled. However, it's a path worth traveling if you know how to leverage your history and strengths. In today's blog post, we'll discuss why project managers make great C-suite candidates (but often aren't chosen to lead) and how to transition your project management skills into C-suite-worthy talents.
Why do project managers make great C-suite contenders?
Project managers, by definition, oversee a project from inception to completion, often leading a team to achieve success. Project management requires creativity, problem-solving, and drive to complete an assignment on time, under budget, and within scope.
Why aren't project managers a shoo-in for C-suite roles?
The same skills that make great project managers can translate into leadership. So, why isn't the pathway to leadership more clear-cut?
While project managers are singularly focused on a project for months or years, CEOs must focus on organizational strategy without getting too bogged down in the details. To transition from project manager to C-suite, you must focus on delegation and big-picture strategy while adopting an executive mindset. Instead of ticking items off a to-do list for a project launch, leaders must look beyond what they must do here and now and strategize for the future.
Here's how to boost your C-suite potential
Don't get passed over for a leadership role. Instead, develop a holistic skill set, beginning with the attributes below.
Take calculated risks
As a project manager, leadership expects you to stick with the status quo to complete your project under budget. As a leader, you'll need to take calculated risks to grow.
Expand long-term thinking
Like runners, project managers are trained to work with a finish line in mind. Executives must look beyond project deadlines to create long-term strategy. Expand this skill set by sitting in on strategic planning sessions.
Learn to handle critiques
No matter who is really responsible for an error, C-suite executives catch the brunt of the criticisms— from inside and outside the organization. When faced with criticism:
- Respectfully accept the feedback
- Analyze it
- Make changes
Don't let bad news get you down. Instead, learn from it, make changes, and move on.
Practice delegation
While project managers have the know-how to lead their teams, executive management must take a more hands-off approach. Instead, practice clear communication and trust to free yourself to handle problems, liaise with stakeholders, and work on long-term goal-setting.
While it is true that not many project managers go on to become famous CEOs, some of the most influential CEOs are, at heart, project managers. That MacBook or iPhone you're reading this article on was created by one of the greatest project managers of our era— Steve Jobs.
If you need help with management development, organizational leadership, or training + development, Enhancewell Consulting is here to support you. Set up a free consultation call and learn how we can help you discover your next great leader.