A leader must build the influence he needs to transition into a different leadership role.

Today, I want to share an inspiring story that’s all about navigating career transitions, especially when you’re moving from a hands-on role to a more corporate leadership position. Meet John, a boat captain who’s been riding the waves—literally and figuratively—his entire life. Starting at just eight years old, John’s passion for the marine industry was clear. He even had his own boat before he could drive a car! Talk about dedication, right?

John’s journey is fascinating. Despite his father’s corporate background and advice against working on boats, John dived headfirst into the marine world. Over the years, he’s moved through various roles, proving his leadership on the water. But now, he’s aiming to transition fully into the corporate side of operations within his company.

What makes John’s story stand out is his proactive attitude. He’s not one to sit back and wait for opportunities. Instead, he inserts himself into situations where he can learn and contribute, becoming the go-to guy for solving problems. This has earned him a solid reputation as someone who gets things done. But here’s the catch—while his hands-on approach has been beneficial, translating that into recognized long-term value in a corporate setting is challenging.

If you’re curious about how John is navigating this tricky transition and want to pick up some tips for your own career path, check out this insightful podcast episode: https://hbr.org/podcast/2024/05/how-do-i-prove-im-the-right-person-for-a-different-leadership-role

Trust me, it’s worth a listen!