Transitioning into an executive role is like strapping on a jetpack and being shot into space.
It's an exciting leap forward, but let's be honest, it can also be a bit terrifying!

For senior managers stepping up to Director, Senior Director, or Senior Vice-President roles, the journey can be particularly daunting. You're entering a new league, and not just because the water cooler has been upgraded to a fancy espresso machine. The tactics that previously secured your success might not cut it anymore-the stakes are higher, the pressure intensifies, and it's time to raise your game.

So, what makes this transition so challenging?

Well, for starters, you need to adopt a new mindset, acquire a fresh set of skills, and learn to navigate the complex labyrinth of organizational dynamics.

As a new executive, you shouldn't wing it like you're doing improv on a stage. Nor should you rest on your laurels. Without a clear direction and a commitment to continuous learning, your success might hinge on a lucky roll of the dice. When you purposefully prepare for your new role and have a robust learning plan in place, crossing what might seem like the Grand Canyon at times becomes more like a jump over a sidewalk ditch. And here’s why.

Imagine stepping onto a roller coaster without securing the safety bar. You just wouldn’t do it, right? Similarly, without a solid learning plan in place, you're setting yourself up for a bumpy ride. You risk stumbling into unexpected obstacles and missing out on strategic opportunities, and the magnitude of your new responsibilities might make you feel like you're juggling flaming torches. High stakes call for strategic decisions, not a coin flip.

Conventional approaches fall short

Have you also been shocked by all the research reports published recently, detailing the shockingly high failure rates among new executives? Our market research revealed, and several other studies back this up, that business school programs often miss crucial elements for success.  SupraLimina programs uniquely fill the gaps that typical business school and executive coaching programs don’t reach, which leads our participants to remarkable outcomes.

Traditional Executive Coaching can be like an old GPS - it's helpful, but it has its limitations. You need more than a coach who's clocked in years of experience. You need someone who has walked the executive path themselves, a coach who knows what it's like to be in the C-suite and can offer solid strategic insight. Enter our team of specialized Executive Transition Coaches. They'll challenge your boundaries, fuel your growth, and guide you to success.

To position yourself for success, grasp how opportunities emerge, avert costly mistakes, and avoid the overwhelm, it's important to make informed decisions. By intentionally arming yourself with the right knowledge, skills, and support, you can transition into your new role swiftly and seamlessly, reducing the risk of tripping over unforeseen hurdles.

Granted, new executives often struggle with time constraints. Days whirl by and finding time for learning may seem like an impossible task. But here's the thing: prioritizing learning is not a luxury; it's a necessity. It's like investing in your professional survival kit, arming yourself with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in this new landscape - and dare we say, enjoy your new role!

Bridging the chasm

At SupraLimina, we truly understand the roller coaster ride across the chasm from manager to executive. It’s our special gift to help make this transition both smooth and exhilarating, and we’re fully committed to it.

This is why we developed our proprietary Bridge Modelâ„¢, specifically designed for new executive transitions. As the name suggests, the model acts as a transformational link, bridging the gap between the tangible deliverables of operational management and the ambiguous realm of systemic executive leadership.

Picture it as a well-structured framework that takes you from a domain focused on task, accountability and execution to a world driven by vision, strategic outcomes, and the tactical imperatives necessary to deliver on the strategy.

The Bridge Modelâ„¢ comprises five interconnected 'spans,' each representing a critical aspect of the executive transition.

  • 'Plan and Prepare' is the first span, that sets the foundation by identifying the skills and knowledge you need to acquire
  • 'Personal Effectiveness' focuses on enhancing self-awareness, leadership presence, dynamic communication, and interpersonal skills
  • ‘Systemic Leadership’ assists new executives in navigating the complex dynamics of solving for the entire organization, not just one part.
  • ‘Strategic Acumen’ sharpens your ability to think strategically towards a longer-term future, align your actions with organizational goals, and drive strategic initiatives
  • ‘Stakeholder Engagement’ emphasizes building effective relationships and managing diverse stakeholders, often with conflicting needs, to achieve sustainable success.
The Bridge Executive Transition Model
What next?

You could be a newly appointed executive who is ready to make her mark early on as a confident, respected member of the Executive Team.

You could be preparing yourself to imminently take on your first executive role.

Or you could be a C-suite Executive, committed to ensuring your senior managers add value as executives from the get-go.

Either way, you're in the right place.

We've assisted hundreds of executives, teams, and organizations in achieving goals like these, and we're eager to do the same for you. But, this is not for everyone, so let's start with an exploratory conversation.

We'll discuss your needs and goals and answer your questions. If one of our programs is the right fit for you, we'll show you why. If not, we’ll let you know why too. Regardless, you'll leave with a clearer vision of your best next step.

So, if you’re eager to create far greater success for yourself and your company, click the link below and book a call with us now.

We can’t wait to talk with you!