1 in 3 Promotions Fail? Let's Fix That! - Adam Walz Guest Hosting with Kent as guest!

The Step UP - Where Leaders, Talent Managers and Leadership Development pros find expert tips for Leadership excellence

Today is a unique episode. Future guest, Adam Walz, is guest hosting today with me, Kent Kniebel, as the guest!

We've got a real gem for you today: we're diving into the nitty-gritty of why a shocking one in three promotions tank within the first 18 months, and trust me, it’s a topic that hits home for a lot of us. Our expert guest is here to lay down some solid insights on how organizations can step up their game and actually support leaders in making those tricky transitions from one level to the next. We chat about the staggering costs associated with failed promotions—think $200,000 to even $5 million—and how investing in coaching could be a game-changer. Seriously, it's like paying a small ticket price to avoid a massive concert disaster. Plus, we sprinkle in some personal stories and practical tips that can help anyone navigating the wild world of leadership. So, grab your headphones, kick back, and let’s unpack this crucial convo on leadership growth together!

Diving into the world of leadership transitions can feel like jumping into the deep end without a life jacket. The conversation really heats up around the challenges newly promoted leaders face when stepping up their game. Kent and Adam share their personal experiences, revealing that just because someone was a superstar in one role doesn’t mean they’ll shine in the next. The duo highlights the alarming statistic that about one in three promotions end in failure, often due to a lack of support. They advocate for a proactive approach to coaching, suggesting that organizations should invest in resources to help new leaders navigate their roles successfully. From hiring a coach to creating a support network, the guys emphasize the importance of not just winging it and instead, fostering an environment where asking for help is seen as a strength, not a weakness. It’s all about setting leaders up for success, and they stress the need for companies to acknowledge that transitioning to a new role requires different skills and approaches.

But that’s not all! The episode also touches on the financial implications of leadership failures—ranging from hundreds of thousands to even millions of dollars lost due to poor transitions. They frame this in terms of risk management, equating the investment in coaching as a safety net against potentially catastrophic losses. Kent shares his thoughts on the necessity of recognizing the value of coaching—not just for the individual but for the organization as a whole. They drive home the point that investing in leadership development is not just a cost; it’s a strategic decision that can save money and improve organizational health in the long run.

As they wrap up, Kent and Adam remind listeners of the importance of building a community of support for new leaders. They suggest that sharing experiences, asking for advice, and being transparent about the challenges can make a huge difference in navigating those tough waters of leadership. It’s a refreshing take on what it means to step up and really lead, and it’s packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to enhance their leadership journey. So, whether you’re a new leader or someone supporting one, this episode is a must-listen for valuable tips on making those transitions smoother and more successful!

Takeaways:

• Investing in a leadership coach can save you big bucks in the long run, trust me.
• Transitioning to a new leadership role is tough; don’t hesitate to ask for help or guidance.
• Companies often give more support to external hires than to internally promoted leaders, which is wild!
• Many organizations fail to provide proper coaching for new leaders, leading to costly failures.
• Internal promotions have a higher success rate when leaders receive more systematic support during their transition.
• Understanding the difference in responsibilities at each leadership level is key to success.

Links for today's show:

• Kent's Linked In Page
• Promoted Leader Playbook

**Music for this podcast comes from the song Needle & Thread and is provided with permission by Pert' Near Sandstone. Check them out on PertNeaerSandstone.com and on all major streaming platforms.**

*Editing by Fynn Gentle / www.fynngentle.com