Many people think becoming an executive gets you power (to call the shots), people (to manage) and better payment. However, that are only the status symbols that come with it. What it’s really about is taking on responsibility to lead a group of people to make them feel belonging and purpose and subsequently create value for the organization.
In order to do so, every executive needs to cover all of three areas. First, she or he has to be a “leader”, convincing her or his people of the purpose and goals of the entire organization and the respective unit. A good leader makes her or his people understand and want the same things she or he does.
Second, she or he needs to be an “architect”, structuring organization, work results and culture in the best possible way to open space for effective, efficient and enriching work. Third, the executive also has to be a “manager” keeping operations afloat.
Three different roles that require different mindsets and communication. Switching isn’t easy, but if you manage to, you’ll make a big difference. On the other hand, if you’re an employee struggling to figure out what role your executive is in while talking to you, feel free to clarify that first.