Start with smarts, then have a plan
"Develop all the skills that are critical to your success," advises Jeanette Winters, vice president of learning and development at Pitney Bowes. "Ask yourself: What unique set of competencies have I developed to warrant consideration?" Education, skills, competencies, and experience are the common starting points. Then come the differentiators. Winters singles out having a career plan, a support network, and an internal champion, mentor, or coach.
Mary Slaughter, chief talent officer at SunTrust Bank, recommends having a clear business orientation, but understanding that "you're leading people, not machines. As a leader, you should continuously grow and develop so you are the best you can be, and then share your expertise in a way that focuses on business outcomes." When making