The Predictable Executive Career Arc Is Over

“For decades I’ve been told that managing a successful career begins with a plan,” Bill, a senior leader in a financial institution, told me during an executive education program I was running. “Decide where you want to be in five years. Build a roadmap. Acquire the skills you’ll need. Then work steadily towards your destination.” He paused. “That advice made sense when the future was reasonably predictable. What if it isn’t?”

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