Leaders-in-transition must change their cognitive models to be successful in a new role. These cognitive models include thinking more strategically, managing greater complexity and working across longer time horizons.

Leaders-in-transition experience anxiety, stress, uncertainty, loneliness, isolation and self-doubt. They need to increase their level of self-awareness, emotional intelligence and emotional control.

Senior leaders need strong interpersonal skills to influence others, communicate their vision, establish trust and build support across multiple stakeholders.