A well-planned career move isn’t just about the next step, it’s about ensuring long-term growth, influence, and alignment with your leadership vision. Too many executives step into new roles that look great on paper but don’t serve their bigger goals.
Three Questions to Ask Before Accepting a New Role
1. Does This Company Align with My Leadership Style?
Every organisation has a distinct culture, decision-making style, and leadership expectations. Misalignment between your leadership approach and the company’s operating style is one of the fastest paths to frustration.
Ask yourself:
- Will I have the autonomy and influence I need?
- Does the leadership team share my approach to strategy and execution?
- Is this an environment where I can thrive and drive real impact?
A strong salary won’t compensate for a culture clash.
2. Will I Be Solving Problems That Excite Me?
Great executives aren’t just looking for a title, they’re looking for a challenge that keeps them engaged and inspired. The best roles allow you to leverage your expertise to solve high-impact problems.
Consider:
- Does this role allow me to play to my strengths?
- Will I be leading transformation, innovation, or growth in a way that excites me?
- Am I motivated by the mission, industry, or challenges of this company?
If the problems don’t excite you, what’s the likelihood that you’ll become bored all too quickly?
3. What’s My Exit Strategy from This Role?
Executives often take roles thinking only about the entry point, but what about the exit?
A smart career move positions you for your next leap forward, not just your current job. Ask yourself:
- Will this role build skills and experiences that open up future opportunities?
- Will I be exposed to the right networks, industries, or growth paths?
- Does this position give me a strategic advantage for my long-term career goals?
Many executives get trapped in a role with no clear path forward, realising too late that they’ve stalled their momentum.
Final Thought: Move with Intention, Not Impulse
Title and compensation matter, but they shouldn’t be the primary drivers of your career decisions. The best executive roles elevate your impact, align with your leadership strengths, and position you for long-term success.
Before making your next move, shift the conversation from "How much will I earn?" to "How much impact can I make?"