Execs and the City

Execs and the City

Share this post

Execs and the City
Execs and the City
Assert Your Future, Don't Appease Others
Copy link
Facebook
Email
Notes
More

Assert Your Future, Don't Appease Others

Jacob Warwick's avatar
Jacob Warwick
Jan 23, 2025
∙ Paid
2

Share this post

Execs and the City
Execs and the City
Assert Your Future, Don't Appease Others
Copy link
Facebook
Email
Notes
More
Share
Assert Your Future, Don't Appease Others

"What's next for you?"

A simple question that can derail even the most accomplished executive's interview. I’ve found that most folks misunderstand what's really being asked.

This isn't small talk. This is a power move. A test. A glimpse into whether you're a chess player or a chess piece.

Your answer doesn't just reveal your ambition, self-awareness, and strategic thinking. It exposes whether you're truly executive material or just wearing the title.

Here's the catch-22: Show too much ambition, and the hiring manager sees you as a threat. Show too little, and you're instantly forgettable. 

So what's the play?

Most executives choose between two losing strategies.

Either they water down their ambitions to appear "safe" or they try to read minds and say what they think others want to hear.

The top 1% of executives understand that this question isn't about finding the right diplomatic answer—it's about creating a shared vision so compelling that your ambition becomes an asset, not a threat.

Notic…

Keep reading with a 7-day free trial

Subscribe to Execs and the City to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.

Already a paid subscriber? Sign in
© 2025 Jacob Warwick
Privacy ∙ Terms ∙ Collection notice
Start writingGet the app
Substack is the home for great culture

Share

Copy link
Facebook
Email
Notes
More