In leadership, we talk a lot about beginnings—how to make an impact in the first 90 days, set a compelling vision, and build momentum.
In leadership, we talk a lot about beginnings—how to make an impact in the first 90 days, set a compelling vision, and build momentum.
At FiveAndCo., we see leaders reach out to us during this time to establish their leadership and accelerate their team’s journey toward high performance. But endings matter just as much. How we navigate transitions—whether stepping into something new or supporting someone else’s move—shapes our leadership legacy and the culture we leave behind.
Handled well, career transitions—both our own and those of our teams—can be moments of reflection and opportunity. Handled poorly, they can damage relationships, reputations, and even dampen our own sense of identity. The reality is that change is inevitable, especially at senior levels. What separates great leaders is how they navigate these transitions—with integrity, intention, and the same commitment to leadership excellence that they bring when stepping into a new role.
How to Transition Well
1. Exit With Clarity and Purpose
If you’ve decided to leave a role, do it with intentionality. Take 30 minutes to reflect on and write down your responses to these key questions:
A clear exit plan—including wrapping up key projects, communicating transparently with your team, and documenting your insights—ensures you leave a positive legacy.
If the move has been forced on you, it’s natural to feel a sense of loss or uncertainty. But every transition creates space for something new. Instead of asking, “What am I leaving behind?”, consider, “What new possibilities are opening up for me?” Think practically as well as emotionally:
Answering these questions will help you take ownership of your transition and shape your next step with confidence.
2. Pause to Refresh Your Story
How you talk about your move shapes how others perceive it—and how you feel about it yourself. Own your story.
A well-paced transition allows you to process what was, broaden your perspective, and make better long-term decisions. Senior roles are demanding, and leaving one often surfaces unexpected emotions. Taking time to reflect helps you move forward with clarity and intention.
Ask yourself:
Coaching, journaling, or open conversations with trusted peers can help you clarify your thinking.
And remember, the manner of your leaving dictates the manner of your arrival. If you exit with grace, professionalism, and a clear sense of purpose, you set the stage for a strong and confident start in your next role.
3. Move On, But Stay Connected
Exiting doesn’t mean cutting ties. The relationships you’ve built in your current role can be invaluable in the future. Be proactive about maintaining connections—whether it’s a quick message of encouragement, offering your support, or simply staying in touch over time.
A well-managed transition ensures that you leave on good terms, with open doors rather than burned bridges. And as you move forward, you may find that these professional relationships continue to open new opportunities when you least expect them.
Closing Thoughts: The Mark of a Great Leader
Leadership isn’t just about how you enter a role—it’s about how you leave one, too. A great transition is not just about securing your next step but about demonstrating integrity, thoughtfulness, and leadership until the very end.
So, whether you’re choosing to move on (having the decision made for you), or supporting someone else through their transition, approach it with the same level of care, strategy, and purpose that you would when stepping into a new role. Because in the end, how you handle change is one of the clearest reflections of the leader you are.
We all know we should rest and step away from the demands of work - especially for an extended time during the summer vacation. We know it’s good for us to slow down and be more fully present with family and friends. But when work is so all absorbing and the stakes, expectations and responsibility are high, it’s hard to really switch off.
It’s true that I have found it difficult to lead some people. Apparently, some people have found it difficult to be led by me (crazy, right?). So, what do we mean by difficult people? How can we make this challenge simple, but bold and authentic?
Tradition plays an important role for many societies around the world, especially during shared events like the start of the new year. At their best, traditions preserve cultural heritage and deepen our connections with each other.
FiveAndCo is on a mission to help everyone in the life sciences industry thrive – to do well for the business (whatever their context) and feel well too.