How to Become a Chief Executive Officer

Chief executive officers are among the highest paid and best-compensated employees in the working world. However, unless you start and own your own company, becoming a chief executive officer may take many years of hard work. Usually, the title comes from a promotion within the company you work for. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Resume
• Portfolio
• Master's degree in business administration
• Cover letter
• Bachelor of science degree

Become a Chief Executive Officer

1. Earn a bachelor's degree in an area that interests you if you plan to become a chief executive officer in a specialized company. If you are unsure exactly which type of company you wish to work for, a liberal arts or business degree is acceptable. An advanced-business degree, such as an MBA, is also desirable.

2. Set career goals for yourself and meet or exceed each goal. As a chief executive officer, you will be responsible for setting company goals and implementing them. If you have a clear understanding of goal setting and a track record for success, you are more likely to find work as a chief executive officer.

3. Build a portfolio of all your work and accomplishments. Each time you put together a presentation or publish an article, save a copy in a presentation portfolio. Use this when meeting with management and discussing increases in responsibility and job title.

4. Make yourself visual to the community you work in. This means participating in local government, teaching locally and volunteering or guest speaking. If you have a field you are particularly interested in, such as health care, gear your community activities toward this field.

5. Dress for work as though you already have the position of chief executive officer. Keep a neat and professional appearance at all times. This allows the company to envision you in an executive position.

6. Contact a headhunter or other employment specialist when you feel you are ready to become a chief executive officer. If there is no room within the company you currently work for, contact an employment specialist who can help match you with a company that needs your qualifications.

7. Make yourself available for work after hours, including weekends. Chief executive officers typically work up to 80 hours a week. Be willing to drop your personal plans and travel often as well.

8. Become a member of The-ChiefExecutive.com (see Resources below). Mention this membership on your resume and cover letter when applying for a job as a chief executive officer.

Tips & Warnings

• Start preparing for your career as a chief executive officer as early as high school by taking college-preparatory classes to make your college transition easier.

Resources

• The-ChiefExecutive.com for membership information