Sticky or stuck? There's a difference.

There’s a point (maybe a few) in your career where things get a little ‘sticky’.

It can get a little sticky when the time comes to level up.

Scoring that first leadership role is tough - you can’t get experience without being given a shot, and you often won’t get a shot without experience.

You might then find yourself a bit stuck between middle manager and senior manager, and again between senior manager and executive manager levels.

If you’ve climbed more than one rung up the leadership ladder you need to think twice about what’s lurking on your CV.

Is it full of granular details that keep you in the weeds rather than the sky?

Is it full of responsibilities rather than achievements?

Is it full of personality traits rather than skills?

Is it full of language that dilutes your leadership abilities and influence?

If so, you’re telling hiring managers things that won’t serve you. They don’t help your case. They could be keeping you stuck.

You need to talk people leadership.

You need to talk strategic direction.

You need to talk impact and results.

You need to talk whole of org culture.

You need to talk commercial acumen.

Part marketing and a lot mindset, ensuring your CV and later, your interview technique, favourably reflect the stage you’re at in your career is vital. Imposter syndrome often comes into play here, and can be a particular challenge for candidates seeking internal promotion.

If this resonates with you, reach out and let’s talk about it, or book a Career Crossroads call.

You’re also welcome to send me a copy of your CV for some high-level feedback on whether you are hitting the mark in capturing your value and expertise.

It might be sticky, but you don’t need to stay stuck.