So you've climbed up the greasy pole, what now?

For you that pole has been quite grippy and you've had fair winds. In my line of work I come across lots of people who find themselves here, and they wonder what now?

Know your worth

Imposter syndrome can affect us all, especially when you've progressed through the ranks quickly. But there's a reason you reached the level you're at now. You've no doubt taken risks or made sacrifices.

You may have some attributes that you don't fully embrace, that actually deserve some self recognition. Perhaps you are wiley, resourceful, or you've got the gift of the gab. Maybe you're a perfectionist or you can't rest until you've covered all bases. These are superpowers! Pat yourself on the back!

Take stock of the skills in your toolbox

Now you're here enjoying the view, you may need to hone new skills in order to keep growing. Maybe it's time to learn how to delegate more effectively? Or to learn how to strike a balance between providing opinions and keeping schtum. Leaders need a unique set of skills to be great, and the skills demanded of you will change with the times. Maybe it could be wise to download tiktok, learnt about the impact of Brexit on your industry, or taught yourself some code.

Earn the respect of your team

It's increasingly accepted that you can't promote someone just for being great at what they do, people-skills and emotional intelligence are essential for those managing others. But an unexpected byproduct is that more people are being promoted to lead others, despite not being the *best* at the work they do.

First thing is to remember again you've been promoted for a reason (go away imposter syndrome!). Secondly, it's true, having depth of knowledge is important. So give yourself some grace but also swat up when you can. Learning technical skills will go a long way to earn the respect of your team.

Finally, you maybe got promoted partly because you happily work 70 hour weeks, that's not sustainable. In addition to enhancing and demonstrating your deep knowledge, you need to earn the respect of your team through respecting yourself with your working hours and boundaries. Respect goes two ways, so also respect them in turn, for example by listening, keeping your promises and helping their own progression and development.

Pause and reflect

When you've reached a senior level quite quickly, you might not have been blessed with the woeful stress of job hunting, or doing a job you really really can't stand. You've maybe been preoccupied with promotions, new challenges, effective feedback and maybe the odd leg up. This is fantastic and it's important to acknowledge this successful journey you've navigated for yourself. But also keep in mind the hours you've put in and those risks you've taken. It's not all luck!

Without that forced self reflection it might be time for you to take some time out for yourself. Maybe a sabbatical, or a long holiday is in order. Or even just a weekend to think of nothing else but what you want to do.

I love the theory of 'ikigai' where you think of something that you enjoy, you're good at, the world needs, and you get paid for. But what if you actually have no idea if you enjoy what you do? What if it's just circumstance that got you there? Are you just on automatic?

Taking some time to reflect on what you enjoy could bring new energy to your role. If you decide you are in fact on the right path, then you have the renewed sense of agency to really give it your all. If you decide you would like to try a different path, use your agency and explore your options.

You deserve it after all the climbing.

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