Guidance! | Positioning for Executive Roles

A while back, I had an email AMA (Ask Mandy Anything😉). And someone sent a really good question:

So today I thought I'd answer this. I have interviewed for executive roles since earning my EMBA. I have yet to accept one so take my answer with a grain of salt (as always). Of all those interviews, none of them listed my EMBA as the reason they wanted to talk to me. Here's what they did reference:

1. Leading with Impact

Executives don’t just do work—they move the business forward. That’s what you need to showcase.

• Have you led teams through big changes?
• Managed large budgets?
• Increased revenue, streamlined operations, or driven key initiatives?

Numbers matter. Wherever possible, quantify your impact. "Increased efficiency by 30%" or "grew revenue by $2M" is far more compelling than "helped improve processes." Show that you think in business outcomes, not just tasks.

Remember, I show you how to do this for your resume in my course resume-writing course, Every Bullet Counts!​

2. Owning Expertise

A degree doesn’t make someone an expert—experience does. If you know your field inside and out, make sure people see you as a go-to resource.

• Speak at industry events or on panels
• Write articles or LinkedIn posts to share your insights
• Mentor others in your profession
• Get involved in professional organizations
• Volunteer to serve on Executive and Advisory Boards

The more visible your expertise, the more likely you are to be considered for executive-level roles. People hire leaders they trust—and trust comes from showing, not telling.

3. Think and Act Like an Executive Now

Executives are decision-makers. Even if you’re not in a leadership role yet, start operating at that level where you can.

• Take initiative on cross-functional projects
• Speak up in meetings with strategic insights, not just updates
• Offer solutions that impact the business as a whole
• Align your work with the company’s long-term goals

Showing up with an executive mindset creates more impact.

4. Expand Your Network

It's my impression that most executive roles are filled through relationships, which means you need to build relationships.

• Build relationships with senior leaders inside and outside your company
• Join industry networking groups or executive forums
• Find mentors who can advocate for you
• Engage in thought leadership conversations

Networking isn’t about “who you know.” It’s about who knows you and what they know you for.

Remember, Degrees Don’t Lead—People Do

An advanced degree can be helpful, but it’s not the key to executive success. The most valuable leadership skills—decision-making, influence, problem-solving, vision—come from experience, not a classroom.

If you can lead, drive results, and think strategically, you can land an executive role—degree or not. Position yourself accordingly to create the opportunities you want.

💜

PS - If you're getting interviews for executive roles, you qualify. Don't let imposter syndrome hang over you. No company spends time interviewing unqualified candidates.

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