Why CCO+ Need Executive Education Now
As Chief Communications Officers (CCOs) increasingly take on expanded roles—becoming “CCO-pluses” with responsibilities that now include HR, marketing, social impact, and corporate affairs—the need for targeted executive education has never been more critical. Whether you’re already in a CCO-plus role or aspiring to become one, developing the right skills is essential to succeed in these […]
How Former Chief Communications Officers Can Keep Making a Difference
In my research and interactions with former Chief Communications Officers, I’ve observed a significant trend: these leaders, even after concluding their official duties, possess unique capabilities to drive positive change. Their extensive experience and networks enable them to continue influencing and contributing meaningfully to society. Here are guidelines to assist these seasoned professionals in managing […]
Pitfalls of Presumptive Transplants: Why Familiar Reporting Structures Fail
When executives transition to new companies, they often bring a wealth of experience, including strategies and organizational structures that have previously led to success. While leveraging this experience can provide a head start, it can also introduce inadvertent challenges. This article explores the potential consequences of applying one executive’s previous organizational structure and reporting experience […]
Staying Sharp: A Guide for Former Chief Communication Officers to Remain at the Forefront
In the rapidly evolving field of corporate communications, the challenge does not end when one steps down from the role of a chief communication officer (CCO). In fact, a new set of challenges begins: staying relevant, connected, and informed outside the corporate hustle. Here’s a deeper dive into these challenges and some innovative strategies to […]
Understanding and Leveraging Business Acumen
First let me thank Matt Ragas, Ph.D. and Ron Culp for getting me thinking about this topic with the first of their now quartet of books on business acumen for strategic communicators. Business acumen is the keen insight into the business environment that enables individuals to make quick, informed decisions and drive successful business outcomes. […]
Stepping Beyond: The Art of Crafting a Meaningful Post-CCO Career
The conclusion of tenure as a Chief Communications Officer marks not an end but a beginning—the onset of a journey into uncharted professional territories. For many, this transition can seem as daunting as it is exhilarating. How does one channel decades of corporate communication expertise into ventures that continue to challenge and fulfill? The New […]
Embracing Life After Being a Chief Communications Officer
Transitioning from a Chief Communications Officer (CCO) to roles beyond the corporate executive suite is a journey rich with opportunities and challenges. As we step out of familiar territories, the concepts of Dan Sullivan regarding growth and normality provide a strategic blueprint for embracing this significant change. 1. Redefining ‘Normal’ in Post-CCO Life Leaving behind […]
The Unique Challenges of Global Chief Communications Officers
In the complex web of international business, the role of a Global Chief Communications Officer (GCCO) is pivotal. Managing communications across multiple borders and cultures presents a unique set of challenges that are distinctly different from those faced by communications leaders who operate within a single country. Here’s an exploration of these unique pain points […]
Cultivating Business Acumen as a CCO: A Streamlined, Discreet Pathway
For Chief Communications Officers aiming to bolster their business acumen, a direct and strategic approach is key. Here’s how you can efficiently enhance your skills: Executive Education: Choose executive programs designed for senior leaders. These courses offer targeted insights and a peer network, ideal for CCOs looking to expand their business understanding. Online Learning: Utilize […]
Leveraging Experience: The Untapped Potential of Former CCOs in Today’s Workforce
The corporate world is at a crossroads, facing a demographic shift that’s reshaping the fabric of employment. The challenge is stark: a rapidly aging population juxtaposed against a talent drain, as highlighted by the ongoing conversation around workforce demographics. This scenario isn’t just a hurdle but an opportunity, especially for former Chief Communications Officers (CCOs) […]
