Don Straits - Dragon Slayer

We are in the worst recession since the great depression, and what amazes me is that a day doesn't go by that an executive, who is seeking a new position, doesn't tell me about what he/ she believes he/she is entitled to because of their past experience.  And then they tell me of their unrealistic expectations in terms of compensation and other benefits.

While I admire their self confidence, so many do not grasp the challenges they face in today's economy.  While some of these people become my clients, many go on to face extraordinary challenges to achieve the same kind of responsibilities they once held and the same compensation.  While companies are still hiring executive leaders, the competition is fierce and many executives will simply not achieve what they believe they are entitled to and what they expect.

Executives need to understand they cannot rely on their past achievements as an automatic entre to a new corporate position.  They must, repeat MUST, demonstrate that they are state-of-the-art, contemporary leaders that understand all of the new business paradigms.

To modify an old saying, "The good ole boy network just ain't what it used to be."  Executives must continually enhance their knowledge, absorb what they learn, and practice new techniques and technologies.  They must communicate, through articles, speeches, and industry envolvement, what they know and why they are industry experts. 

Advancing your career within your company or by moving to another company, is no longer just about having a good resume and doing some networking.  You must continually demonstrate that you can produce TODAY.  You cannot expect, and you are not entitled to, any position simply because of past accomplishments.  You must be a visionary with the ability to produce, and you must be able to prove it.