Successful business is often associated with risk.
There is no greater sign of success in the workplace than in a corner office.
According to research data from the CEO Genome Project, although executives take an average of 24 years from their first job to a CEO position, those who have the courage to take greater risks early in their careers usually sit up in less time. Top spot. The project has systematically evaluated 17,000 senior managers over a decade, including more than 2,000 CEOs. The project found that it took an average of 14 years for adventurers to become CEOs.
Their risks involve what researchers call "professional catapults," such as quickly helping the management of a bankrupt company or taking over underperforming business units. They may take on a job that they feel is not ready, or leave a well-functioning position to start their own new business. Or go to a smaller company, where it could be a bigger fish.
These moves give executives the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to solve difficult problems, initiate new initiatives, and take bold actions under pressure.
Rising female positions
For women eager to become senior executives, risk taking is especially important.
According to a survey of 85 senior female executives, executive search company Spencer Stuart identified those willingness to take risks as key factors for promotion. Especially when a working woman has the opportunity to feel that she is not fully prepared. The search company stated in the report: "It is well documented that compared with men, women are more likely to believe that they need to have all the qualifications required for a position before applying for the position." "[But once they do Promoted to a new role, they will most likely know that they can “solve the problem” and succeed. Take more risks, including finding opportunities for [earnings] gains and losses earlier. You do n’t need to do 100% for the next move "Ready."
Balance risk carefully
After years of consulting senior executives, Anthony Abbatiello has seen first-hand how taking intelligent risks in his career can help fast job seekers. He said, however, that those who eventually become CEOs are usually very cautious.
"We know that great senior executive leaders have a 'span'. When you work at the highest levels, you actually have to overcome all kinds of pressures, such as taking risks and being cautious, breaking new ground and pragmatism. You need both . There must be agility between them, "said Russell Reynolds Associates' Leadership and Succession Practice Leader.
Elena Lytkina Botelho, one of the chief investigators for the CEO Genome Project and CEO consultant for management assessment company ghSMART, said that this, combined with the ability to make decisions with imperfect information, is another corner office Capabilities and advantages.
"Our research shows that decisive CEOs are 12 times more likely to succeed. Adaptable CEOs are 7 times more likely to succeed." "To be decisive and adaptable, leaders You have to take risks and take risks. "