5 ways to thrive in a new & visible Corporate role

Starting a new role at Corporate high-command can be both exciting and intimidating. On one hand, the nomination is positive reinforcement of the company's belief in your potential. On the other hand, it comes with increasing levels of competition and solitude. The role is often a step up, in a new team or strategic area, or requires relocation - accompanied by both opportunities and challenges. The first months are key to setting the stage for success. A year into my new role, here's what I learned:

Look before leaping: assess your new environment - especially the people and culture - before making major moves. Understand the dynamics - including the visible and invisible networks and power centers. Start by identifying who is respected in the environment and assess how s/he accomplishes this. Meet as many people as you can in different departments and at different levels. Pay special attention to how decisions are made and decision makers are influenced.

Know and stay close to your champions: this group of people can be counted on for support and guidance at critical times. Maintain your relationship and trust with those who are rooting for you, and ensure that they can - in turn - count on you.

Step up to unexpected opportunities: being at the corporate hub means you could find yourself unexpectedly presenting in front of the whole department, in meetings with senior leadership, or have a board member join your table at dinner. These opportunities might be a minute or less - be bold and bright! And if per chance you miss your mark, rest assured there will be more opportunities. Reflect on why you didn't do as well you would like, and adapt for the next time.

Show and require results early and consistently: while relationships and understanding the environment are important, concrete results count and set the stage for what your team and leadership can expect from you. Ensure that you deliver results - however small - and consistently through the first months. If you say yes to an assignment or task, deliver. Take the same approach with your team - provide them with 'test' assignments and hold them accountable to delivering with quality.

Be Teflon, not Velcro: lastly, manage your mental and emotional energy. Challenges that come with your role include critics, judgement and sometimes unexpected outcomes. It is up to you what bounces off and what sticks. Develop the Teflon quality of listening, observing and 'taking the hit' while maintaining your unique mindset and behavior. Know your strengths, remember what brought you to this point, and shake off anything that holds you back.

The first days of a new role are exciting! Take advantage of this positive momentum to set the tone and environment that you believe to be the best for your company, your team and yourself. The rest, as they say, makes for a great story! 


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