URGENT UPDATE: Are you feeling stuck in your career? New insights from Lew Frankfort, former CEO of Coach, reveal five powerful strategies for making a successful career pivot. These methods can change your professional trajectory today!
Frankfort’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability. After facing rejection from a promotion in the New York City government, where Mayor Ed Koch advised him he was “too principled” for the role, Frankfort made a bold move to leave government work behind. “I wanted a job that would challenge me and help build something meaningful,” he stated. This pivotal moment led him to explore opportunities that would ultimately shape his career.
1. Use Rejection as Motivation: Frankfort advises individuals not to let rejection deter them. Instead, use it as fuel to seek out new opportunities. “I began looking outside government and decided to work at Coach,” he explained, showcasing how one moment can shift your entire career path.
2. Network Strategically: While discussing his career aspirations during a cab ride, a colleague suggested Frankfort speak with Miles Cahn, the founder of Coach, who was seeking a protege. “That’s how I met Coach’s founder,” Frankfort recalls, emphasizing the importance of conversations that can lead to unexpected opportunities.
3. Be Willing to Learn: In his first role as Vice President of Marketing and Special Projects at Coach, Frankfort demonstrated his commitment by installing an air conditioning system in the factory and launching its first mail order business. His hands-on approach helped propel Coach from $6 million to $5 billion in revenue during his 29-year leadership.
4. Embrace Lifelong Learning: Frankfort urges professionals to remain curious and inquisitive. “Never assume you have all the answers. Ask a lot of questions and question the answers you get,” he stated, underscoring the necessity of continuous learning in any field.
5. Leverage Your Past Experiences: Many job seekers believe they must abandon their previous skills when entering a new industry. However, Frankfort highlights the value of past experiences, stating, “My years in government taught me many skills that also applied to business.” This perspective can provide a unique advantage during job interviews and in new roles.
These insights from Frankfort are especially relevant today, as many individuals contemplate career changes in a rapidly evolving job market. With economic uncertainties, now is the time to take bold steps toward fulfilling work.
As professionals navigate their career paths, the need for adaptability and openness to new opportunities has never been more critical. Frankfort’s story serves as both inspiration and a practical guide to anyone looking to make their mark in their career.
Stay tuned for more updates on career development strategies and success stories from industry leaders. Your next career breakthrough could be just one conversation away!
