5 Pieces of Advice for New C-Level Executives

Accepting a C-level role is a significant milestone in any executive's career, bringing with it both exciting opportunities and considerable challenges. However, many new leaders find it difficult to navigate the complexities of the C-suite, as only 60% of newly appointed C-level leaders believe they are meeting their objectives, according to a recent Gartner survey.

This is where the insights and experiences of seasoned executives become invaluable. To shed light on this critical transition, we reached out to hundreds of members of Evanta’s C-level communities for their best advice to guide new executives toward success. Five recurring themes emerged from their responses.

1. Prioritize Understanding the Business

To excel in a C-level role, it is imperative to develop a comprehensive understanding of the business and ensure that your strategies are aligned with organizational goals. This foundational knowledge enables leaders to make informed decisions, drive innovation, and effectively guide their teams toward achieving long-term objectives. Here is what a few Evanta members shared:

Ensure your program has an explicit and well-defined alignment with your organization's business strategy.”

 – Will Longman
Chief Information Security Officer, Blue Origin

Understand the core business, the long term strategy, and the gaps/hurdles to get from point A to point B. Then, develop a transformation plan to execute the changes required for success.”

– Roland Gehrke
CFO, BC Transit

The key piece of advice I have is to learn the business inside and out. I believe that is how you can be most effective. You need to understand what drives the different areas of the business in order to provide them with strategic technology recommendations.”

– John Sullivan
CIO, Major League Soccer

1. Build Relationships and Foster Collaboration

Building strong relationships and fostering collaboration are pivotal for driving organizational success. Establishing accord with peers, stakeholders, and teams can significantly enhance the ability to achieve strategic objectives and navigate challenges. Executives advised:

Create relationships of trust with key stakeholders who must be identified.”

– Patrick Bangert
VP & Chief of AI, Oxy (Occidental Petroleum)

Build partnerships and alliances within your organization. Great things are achieved when technology and business peers work effectively together with mutual trust and respect.”

– Ashley Pettit
SVP and CIO, State Farm

The key to success is to build relationships and rapport with teams and leaders across the entire organization.”

– Dawn Paquette
CIO, GE Aerospace

1. Embrace Adaptability and Continuous Learning

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning are essential traits for C-level executives. These qualities enable leaders to respond effectively to change, embrace new opportunities, and maintain a competitive edge. Here, experienced leaders highlight these crucial skills:

True success comes from taking ownership of your journey, continuously learning, and adapting your strategy as you grow. In the end, it will be your individuality and resilience that will set you apart and drive you toward your own definition of success.”

– Christina Morillo
Head of Information Security, New York Giants

Control your inner critic and the need to be perfect. There is such a rich network of resources and people who can help your learning – have the humility to use them.”

–  Michelle Parczuk
Chief People Officer, Avon

Appreciate that you don’t have all of the answers, nor should you. Leverage your community, your peers and your team. Embrace a diversity of thought, and don’t be afraid to seek it out and ask for it.”

–  Brian Talbert
Managing Director, CISO, Alaska Airlines

1. Decisiveness is Key to Effective Leadership

The ability to lead effectively and make decisive decisions is critical for achieving organizational success. These skills not only inspire confidence but also foster a culture of empowerment and accountability. These insights emphasize this notion:

The greatest success factor for someone starting in a C-level role should be the ability to master decisiveness as part of your professional brand.”

–  Sam Gabbai
CISO EMEA, PayPal

Be inclusive, lead by example, empower your team and do not shy away from making a decision.”

– Vishal Patel
Chief Data & Analytics Officer, Webster Bank

Believe in yourself. Be humble, be curious, ask questions and always be open to learning, but don't deviate from your core values and be confident about the unique value you bring.”

– Sue Liderth
CIO, EMEA, The Coca-Cola Company

1. Strengthen Trust through Communication and Transparency

Clear communication and transparency are indispensable for cultivating trust and fostering effective collaboration across the organization. Here are insights from Evanta members that underscore the importance of these proficiencies:

Having a clear strategic vision for the company's growth and success, coupled with the ability to communicate and execute your vision, is essential for driving meaningful impact and achieving long-term objectives in the C-suite.”

–  Billy Spears
CISO, Teradata

Take the time to understand challenges and opportunities from leaders across the company… Opening the communication channels as you step into the role helps set the stage for effective collaboration moving forward."

– Ray Morris
Chief Data Officer, COUNTRY Financial

I believe in authenticity and transparency. Gone are the days where leaders need to paint a picture of perfection. Showing our vulnerabilities builds trust and allows those around us to feel included.”

– Janine Pajot
VP, Human Resources, Bayer Corporation

Navigating the complexities of a C-level role requires a blend of strategic insight, relationship-building, adaptability, decisive leadership, and transparent communication. By embracing these core themes, new executives can effectively guide their organizations toward success and make a lasting impact. 

Whether you have recently stepped into a CIO, CISO, CHRO, CDAO or CFO role, the Evanta community can connect you with a network of experienced peers and provide you access to exclusive insights to help guide you as you embark on this challenging yet rewarding journey. Become part of this dynamic community here.