Want to transition from manager to executive? Tips & agile ways to make it happen

Managers and executive-level professionals have both earned places of responsibility within their companies, but they're not the same thing. Before you can move up the career ladder, it’s important to know what steps you’ll need to take to get there.

In this article, we’ll discuss how to transition from management to the executive level, including:

• What is the difference between an executive and a manager?

• What is the requirement for the executive level?

• What's the first step in making the leap from manager to executive?

• 5 Career mistakes to avoid

What is the difference between an executive and a manager?

Many people confuse the terms “executive” and “manager,” but they’re not the same thing. While the specific responsibilities of each position might vary from company to company, in general, a manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of processes and personnel. They usually communicate directly with employees, manage schedules, provide performance evaluations, and ensure projects are completed on time. An executive, on the other hand, is much more “big picture,” working to ensure the company’s goals are met, determine business strategies, and make decisions that affect the organization as a whole. 

So what’s the difference?

• Number of jobs available. In most companies, as you go up the company hierarchy, there are fewer positions (think of a pyramid with the rank-and-file at the base and the executives at the top).

• Scope of the position. Executives generally have a larger scope to their positions, as their decisions tend to affect the company as a whole, rather than just one team.

• Compensation. Executives tend to earn more than managers, depending on their experience, job performance, and education as well as the size of the company. 

• Education requirements. Many companies have higher education requirements for their executives, with many requiring a master's degree in business.

What is the requirement for the executive level?

Most executives have invested years in their respective fields, gaining the skills, education, and achievements necessary to be at the executive level. Executives also usually have well-developed "soft skills," such as leadership, public speaking, contract negotiation, and relationship management. Also, executive positions require years of management experience, generally within the same field. These are just a few of the things most managers will need to accomplish before they can move up to being an executive.

What’s the first step in making the leap from manager to executive?

You’ve worked hard to become a manager, but the skills you developed to get there might not be sufficient to make the leap to executive. And no one just “falls” into an executive position (unless the CEO is your relative), so you’ll need to make a concerted effort to make that next step:

• Keep learning. This includes finding mentors, staying on top of industry news, and reading business journals.

• Make your ambitions known. You don't have to be off-putting or aggressive, but let your boss know that you're focused on doing the best that you can in your current job and that you have your eye on the future.

• Keep track of your accomplishments and the value you’ve brought to the company.

• Cultivate a personal brand. Instead of being a “jack of all trades" executive, find your niche and position yourself as its top person.

• Don’t be afraid to brag—professionally, of course. Set goals with your boss, and during your review, come armed with data to back up how you accomplished them. It’s okay to seek your turn in the spotlight.

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5 Career mistakes to avoid while transitioning from manager to executive

Obviously, you want to do everything you can to set yourself up for success, no matter where you are on your career path. But if you’re gunning for an executive-level position at some point in your career, there are a few mistakes you’ll want to avoid before you get there:

1. Assuming your current skill set will suffice for the next level or waiting until you’re promoted to learn the needed skills. You need to continue to develop your skills wherever you are in your career journey.

2. Not updating your professional networking profiles. A robust online presence will position you as a thought leader in your field and open you up to new opportunities.

3. Relying on your resume alone and not cultivating professional relationships.

4. Thinking it’s all about you. Companies want to know what value you bring to the table.

5. Not being your own best advocate. You can’t rely on other people to give you opportunities—you have to “toot your own horn” and make your skills and successes known.

Remember, there's no one way to become an executive, and there's no magic wand to help you get there. You may be promoted from within, or get hired at a new company. The truth is, if you want to move from manager to executive, you have to put in the time and effort to continually grow, not only as a professional but as a person. It may take a few years but don't lose hope—transitioning from manager to executive can be done!

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Key takeaways

1. In general, a manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of processes and personnel. 

2. An executive is more "big picture," working to ensure the company's goals are met, determine business strategies, and make decisions that affect the organization as a whole. 

3. To become an executive, you’ll need to develop your soft skills such as leadership, negotiation, communication, decision-making, public speaking, and relationship management.

4. An MBA, while not a guarantee of success, can help you earn your credentials, develop your skills, and open doors for opportunity.