Your Next Chapter's Superpower: The Art of Connection

You have built an incredible career, leading teams and navigating complex challenges with expertise. As you step into your executive encore, you will find that the most valuable asset in your toolkit is not just your experience, and it's not about how you sell it.

In the Executive Encore video podcast this week, my guest, Cindy Stradling, encouraged us to ease up on the traditional "sales skills" as we navigate our Executive Encore. Regardless of whether we are entering an encore career or embracing entrepreneurship, or enjoying a lifestyle of leisurely activities, Cindy's perspective is steadfast:  success isn't about mastering high-pressure sales tactics; it’s about our ability to articulate a clear vision and forge genuine connections. By building a strong, supportive community, we create a foundation of trust that far outweighs any sales pitch.

Now! If you were an award-winning sales professional, this is the time to learn how to redefine and refine your skills to transform the "thrill of the sale" to the "thrill of self-actualization".

Let's redefine "sales" by focusing on the core principles of relationship-building: sharing your vision, fostering genuine trust, and creating a robust support system. These are the true keys to unlocking a deeply fulfilling encore lifestyle that may or may not include an encore career.

Here are my key takeaways from my conversation with Cindy:

From Networking to Authentic Connection

In our corporate lives, networking was often transactional. We collected contacts to close deals, to advance our careers, or to grow our businesses.
Your Executive Encore invites a shift in perspective. It's time to move from a wide, shallow network to a deep, meaningful community built on shared values and mutual respect.

This is about cultivating relationships that energize and inspire you. When you focus on genuine connection, you open doors to collaborations and personal growth you never thought possible. Trade in the sales script, unique selling proposition (USP), and the dreaded elevator pitch. Engage in authentic conversations:

• Lead with curiosity, not an agenda. Ask open-ended questions like, "What's a project that's really lighting you up right now?" and truly listen to the answer.
• Share your story. Your journey, with all its triumphs and lessons, is a powerful tool. Sharing your "why" makes you relatable and creates an instant bond.
• Share your vision. Your Executive Encore is your opportunity to amplify your own voice and showcase your vision, not the corporate brand or agenda.

Trust: The True Currency of Your Encore

In your next act, trust is everything. It's the foundation upon which strong partnerships and supportive communities are built. While your performance once defined your workplace value, your character and consistency now take center stage.

Without trust, collaborations weaken, and your vision struggles to gain traction and appreciation.

Fostering trust is an intentional act. It’s built on small, consistent actions that demonstrate your integrity and commitment. 

• Your word is your bond. Whether it's a follow-up email or a coffee meeting, always do what you say you will do. Consistent action contributes to your self-trust and strengthens bonds with others.
• Act with integrity. When your actions align with your values, you create an unwavering sense of trust that becomes a core part of your personal brand. Show up in this new chapter as the person guided by her values, not the corporation's.

Building Your Circle of Support

This journey is not one you have to walk alone. A strong support system is your sounding board, your cheerleading squad, and your safety net all in one. Intentionally creating this circle is one of the most empowering steps you can take as you transition into your Executive Encore.

Imagine having a group of trusted peers to call when you face a challenge or celebrate a win. This is the power of a curated community. The Executive Encore Network for Women is an example of a curated community.

• Identify your inner circle. Invest your time and energy in the people who truly support and energize you.
• Embrace mentorship in both directions. You have immense wisdom to offer. Also, remain open to being mentored by others of all ages and backgrounds. Some have walked a similar path. Others can contribute skills that clear your path.

Your encore journey is a shared adventure, not a solitary pursuit. By focusing on authentic connections, building unwavering trust, and cultivating a strong support system, you empower yourself to create a chapter filled with purpose and impact.

Ready to build your community and thrive in your next chapter? Explore our Executive Encore programs, join the Executive Encore Network for Women, a network of visionary women crafting their most meaningful work yet.

Your Encore is Just Beginning

Transitioning from a high-powered corporate role to a life of flexible, meaningful work is not a step down; it is a step toward alignment. You have the freedom to redefine success on your own terms, blending your vast experience with a renewed sense of purpose and building strong bonds within your support system.

Join the Conversation:
I’d love to hear how you are redefining success in your encore years. Are you finding it hard to balance contentment and ambition? Let’s thrive with purpose, together.

Your first step could be subscribing to the Executive Encore Newsletter and downloading the EQ Mini Plan. Following the MHS Model of Emotional Intelligence (EQ-i 2.0), this exercise helps you focus the next 90 days on what is most important for moving toward self-actualization. Building mutually satisfying relationships is a key component of Emotional Intelligence. Here is a special LINK for you.