What do you do if your executive career growth is stagnating?

If your career is stagnating, it could be for one or more reasons which include: 1. Skillsets not matching changing market requirements. 2. Outdated. 3. Attitude issue. You are not aligned with your organizational goals. 4. Flagging energy levels. 5. Commitment and accountability. 6. Ability to collaborate, empathize, communicate and coordinate effectively. 7. Lack of expertise- maybe a jack of all trades.

Begin by identifying the root cause behind the stagnation. Is it due to outdated skills, strained relations with leadership, communication challenges, or a lack of ability to effectively communicate across different levels of the organization?

During my 20+ years in corporate, working for multi-billion dollar companies, I've observed the leadership path of numerous executives. I find that many people are motivated early in their professional careers, and they are eager to earn the "manager" titles and salaries. These people are willing to do whatever it takes to reach management levels. They take risks and bet on themselves. They make a name for themselves. Then they achieve middle-management, a six-figure salary, and they become comfortable. They quit taking risks, and stop betting their careers on trusting themselves. They pretend they have "too much to lose, now." And that's why they'll never become executives. They stopped taking risks and betting on themselves.

Is your career growth stagnating because of the work environment you are in? You may need to look beyond the four walls of your current employer and seek recognition as a thought leader through various media. Seek opportunities to join a podcast and express your views on topics critical to your industry, or write articles for a well-trafficked publication or website as a guest blogger. Volunteer for a high-profile industry-related nonprofit, and get active on a committee (a place where you can also accelerate networking activity). Pursue Board positions for a great learning experience and incredible exposure. And, of course, be a lifelong learner-open to people's feedback and technology advancements.

You need an executive coach to help you think better and identify the reasons behind the stagnation. If you identify competency gaps, involve your manager in developing the smart action plan.

With full honesty, reflect on your effectiveness and impact as a leader (to your staff, your peers and your senior management). Focus especially on your communication style. Seek feedback from trusted colleagues and mentors. Mastermind sessions are a great resource for these kinds of self-reflections and self-assessments. Set goals for enhancing your career growth based on feedback, upskilling and networking. Be sure that your passion for your impact, your skills, your organization and your industry is strong and unwavering. Be sure that your support team (at home and at work) is solid. If either of these is sabotaged due to burnout/stress, re-creating equilibrium in your life is key, instead of seeking continued career growth.

If your executive career growth is stagnating, it's essential to reassess your goals, skills, and strategies. Reflect on your current role and identify areas for improvement or expansion, whether it's acquiring new skills, seeking out leadership opportunities, or expanding your network. Consider seeking mentorship or coaching from experienced executives who provide guidance and perspective. Explore opportunities for professional development, such as additional training, certifications, or advanced degrees, to enhance your qualifications and marketability. Don't hesitate to explore lateral moves or career changes if they align better with your long-term goals. Staying proactive, and continuously learning will help reignite your career growth