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Mastering Executive Transitions: The Definitive Guide

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Would it surprise you to learn that 40% of executive transitions fail during the first 18 months? With more executives facing exponential challenges, a crisis is imminent and the consequences for organizations and executives alike are severe and far-reaching.

Mastering Executive The Definitive Guide, by Navid Nazemian, explores the intersection between executive leaders and their career transitions, the research of transitions versus the reality of it, and the increased complexity and demands from executives coupled with shorter tenure and executive overwhelm.

This book demonstrates how the biggest transition mistakes can be avoided and provides a proven framework to transition most successfully. It is an invaluable resource who are about to transition professionallyHuman Resources leaders and talent directors who are keen to support their leaders with their transition, and enhance their existing executive transition (onboarding) processExecutive coaches who have specialized in leadership transitionsThrough authentically demonstrated experience and key insights into the challenges that the modern executive faces, Mastering Executive The Definitive Guide aims to bend executive transitions away from failure and towards the masterful and successfully crafted.

244 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 18, 2021

12 people are currently reading
47 people want to read

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Navid Nazemian

2 books2 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for Lauraforero.
287 reviews2 followers
November 19, 2024
loved this book!

I absolutely loved this book; reading it was a whole experience since it was like having a coach with me 24/7. It helped me a lot developing leadership abilities while I was going through a big transition in my job after being promoted, that was making me feel very anxious because of the uncertainty of having a new role and a different team in charge.
The book helped me greatly with increasing my confidence in the hardest moments to solve the best way I could. Also, it did not only help me in my professional path, but I feel I grew so much in a personal perspective, now I feel way better about myself, and I started having better relationships not only with my coworkers but also with my family and friends. I highly recommend this book; everybody should read it, even if you are just starting your professional life, it is going to give you so many tools.
Profile Image for CarlitasFox.
1,489 reviews28 followers
November 21, 2024
A must-read!
“Mastering Executive Transitions” is a helpful guide penned by Navid Nazemian. In this book, he gives simple tips to apply in any organisation that is overcoming transitions. It’s quite difficult and impossible to change all of the sudden the way companies work, that’s why in this read, employers will find ways to handle transitions without problems. There are also interesting topics that delve into organisation of the company, how to build good teams, how to set up new careers or projects, among other interesting ideas about business.
It's a very clear, practical and open-minded read that might be helpful for anybody in the business field or for leaders. I found it very interesting and catchy; I highly recommend it.



Profile Image for Natalia Benavides.
60 reviews1 follower
November 14, 2024
Very interesting!


I loved this book; you really have to read it.
From the first page of this guide, I have felt a great change in my tranquillity and anxiety that before caused me new challenges. I recently changed jobs and I was full of fears about adapting to a new environment, but this book gave me some practical and useful tools where it focuses on helping people to accompany them in the process of either a promotion, job change or different circumstances related to changes in working life. What I liked most about this guide was the confidence it gave me to take a risk, lose the fear of change and establish a clear vision for my future.
You really have to read it, it will change your life as it changed mine.



Profile Image for Lina Perea.
402 reviews4 followers
November 14, 2024
Making change easier

Every change, every transition of managers in a company, can have different consequences, some good and some not so good; in this book, you will find a series of guidelines, concepts, examples that help to make this transition bring the desired effects.
Navid Nazemian sees the company as a unit where all parties must be prepared for this change, therefore, the book refers to the transition of the employer and the employee.
It is written in a clear, concise and very punctual way; it not only mentions what should be done, but also the mistakes that are made in this transition, helping the reader to recognize their weaknesses and make their change path easier.
Profile Image for Rodrigo J.
400 reviews5 followers
October 24, 2024
Very accurate

This book seemed to me quite accurate and very useful. Executive transitions are sensitive processes that can have a significant positive or negative impact within a company if not handled properly. The author aptly refers to potential pitfalls as "transition errors."

I believe that if the methodology outlined in the book is applied, we would have a very high percentage of success assured in these processes. The author provides practical tools and strategies that can guide executives through the complexities of transition, ensuring that they navigate these changes effectively.

Moreover, it’s essential to highlight that the training and learning offered by this methodology are not just applicable to executives in high-level positions; I found that I can also apply it to my own transition processes. This makes the book even more relevant, as it offers insights that can benefit leaders at various levels.

Overall, I found Mastering Executive Transitions to be immensely useful and practical. It equips readers with the knowledge and skills needed to manage transitions successfully. I highly recommend it to anyone facing leadership changes or looking to enhance their executive skills.
Profile Image for Aneley Sánchez.
988 reviews24 followers
October 27, 2024
Everything about Executive Transitions.

Anyone who wants to enter the world of executive transitions or those who are already part of it and want to improve their performance should read this book. Based on years of investigation, experience and practice, Navid Nazemian offers a complete guide from how to avoid the most common mistakes to strategies and a step-by-step plan on how to achieve career advancement.
This book definitely is full of useful and important information. It may be too much for those just starting out, but the book is concise and well organized, making it easy to read. It marks a fully structured path which may not be the best option for experienced business people but I think is a great guide for beginners.
Profile Image for Jung.
1,977 reviews45 followers
March 30, 2024
"Mastering Executive Transitions: The Definitive Guide" by Navid Nazemian provides invaluable insights and frameworks for successfully navigating the challenges inherent in transitioning into high-level executive roles. In today's fast-paced and complex business environment, stepping into an executive position requires more than just experience and skill – it demands a strategic approach and a deep understanding of the dynamics at play.

The book begins by highlighting the significance of effective executive onboarding, recognizing it as a crucial factor in setting the stage for success. By delving into the science behind executive transitions, readers gain insights into the complexities and challenges faced by leaders during this critical phase. The importance of structured processes, executive coaching, and extended support beyond the initial days of transition is emphasized, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive approach to onboarding.

Understanding why executive transitions fail is equally important, as it allows leaders to preemptively address potential pitfalls. Through an exploration of common reasons for transition failures – such as underestimating organizational complexity, struggling with emotional aspects, and lacking adequate support – readers gain a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of executive transitions. This awareness enables leaders to adopt proactive strategies to mitigate risks and increase their chances of success.

The book also underscores the importance of people and culture in executive transitions, highlighting the need for leaders to acclimate to new organizational cultures, manage interpersonal dynamics, and navigate the delicate balance between leading former peers and engaging with key stakeholders. By addressing these challenges with empathy, emotional intelligence, and strategic foresight, executives can build strong relationships and foster a positive organizational culture from the outset.

Moreover, the book delves into the business and technical challenges faced by executives, from realigning struggling units to managing post-merger integrations and transitioning between roles with varying demands. Through practical strategies and case studies, readers learn how to navigate these challenges with confidence and competence, leveraging their skills and experiences to drive organizational success.

Finally, the book offers actionable strategies for mastering executive transitions, including executive transition coaching, rapid assimilation into the organization, and the creation of CEO transition checklists. By implementing these strategies, leaders can accelerate their adaptation period, establish credibility, and drive early successes in their new roles.

Overall, "Mastering Executive Transitions" provides a comprehensive guide for executives seeking to navigate the complexities of transition with confidence and success. By understanding the science behind effective onboarding, addressing common reasons for transition failures, and implementing practical strategies for success, leaders can position themselves for a transformative and impactful tenure in their executive roles.
Profile Image for Mariana.
653 reviews12 followers
October 25, 2024
If you have ever been in the moment of wanting to make a change or restructure your company, but the means to which this transition could generate or clearly the fear of failure when it has already occurred, this book is for you. I found it to be an extremely interesting and detailed guide of everything that should be taken into account in a moment of transition and how to achieve it successfully in the plan and in the results. I consider that it is a very easy to understand book and that it will get you out of too many problems, and above all, it will give you the security to make those changes that you see necessary without so much impact on your results and in the general management of the team. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Liz.
1,402 reviews33 followers
October 26, 2024
As author Nazemian undoubtedly tells us, transitions are the most difficult times in an executive's career, when they need more and better help to perform well. In general, success or failure in the first few months in your new position predicts your future success or failure. But clearly this is not absolute, this book demonstrates how the biggest transition mistakes can be avoided and provides a proven framework for making the transition more successfully.
It seemed to me to be a very appropriate and accurate approach, since at all times, the author proposes effective techniques and tools to improve leadership and transition times. A book for today's leaders.
Profile Image for Laura.
280 reviews5 followers
October 25, 2024
Good for executives

I am personally not in the executive field, and in reading this book I found that it is written for those who are. So, from a lay person's perspective, this book seemed like a well rounded and comprehensive guide for companies undergoing a leadership change and those undergoing a career transition, both from the perspective of the employee and of the staff surrounding the employee. I would definitely recommend this book for management staff, HR staff, those who are charged with ensuring the transition goes smoothly. Ultimately, though it seems like maybe the best thing to do is to hire someone who specializes in this. I would recommend this book.
Profile Image for Diana.
397 reviews7 followers
October 24, 2024
"Mastering Executive Transitions" by Navid Nazemian is an important resource that has given me valuable tools to navigate the challenges of executive transitions. The book has a structured and practical approach, and I really liked it because it highlights common mistakes that can be avoided to ensure a successful transition. One of the things I liked most about the book were the strategies for change management and team dynamics. The author places a lot of emphasis on the importance of building trust from the beginning, which I immediately connected with. I recommend this book because I find it very inspiring to read and it empowers me right at this time of great changes that I am going through.
Profile Image for Margarita Garcia.
1,046 reviews22 followers
October 24, 2024
''Mastering Executive Transitions'' is a compelling book about managing executive transitions through leadership development, without being stressed and minimizing the mistakes that can affect the company's good operation. In this book, the author makes an interesting analysis of why the transition fails, the cost for a company, how to make a good transition with the support of the people and creating a strong culture, and how to succeed in that transition. This is an excellent book with valuable advice and information that I am sure will be useful for you and your business. And overall, the book has real-life cases that will help you to have a better understanding.
Profile Image for Camilo.
411 reviews4 followers
October 25, 2024
Invest in yourself

I just want to admit that when I read the title and the cover of this book, I thought this was only for senior people and high level people of organizations. But a few seconds later, I reflected that in a world that day by day it is more and more competitive so it’s mandatory to anticipate opportunities and changes.
The above is important because when the opportunity appears, you are already prepared to deal with it. That’s why I consider it important to read this book. Also because the author of the book used a very easy language and a very good narrative that drives the reader in an incredible learning and personal investment journey.
Profile Image for Daniel Moreno.
856 reviews16 followers
October 20, 2024
Amazing book

We always have doubts about how to face a big transition when we are about to take on an important challenge such as a promotion at work or perhaps moving to a new company. The book really focuses on preparing us to not be afraid to take on these challenges, which is a very important book since there are not many people who write about it. This is why I find a lot of value in doing so. This book is very clear and very well written, since all the information is very directed so that we can grow much more than we are currently. Highly recommended for all those who want to have professional and personal growth.
Profile Image for Juliana.
244 reviews4 followers
October 19, 2024
100% recommended!

This book is truly a must read for anyone taking on a new role, changing companies, or adapting to new circumstances. This guide serves as a resource for leaders facing significant changes in their work life, offering tools and strategies to help individuals effectively navigate periods of transition. It addresses topics such as managing expectations, building relationships, and adapting to company culture. Personally, it has helped me work on my self-awareness and personal development. I recommend this book, and I believe it will help you just as it helped me in my new professional challenge.
Profile Image for Peyman  Dayyani.
5 reviews
April 5, 2024
Great practical knowledge-sharing

"Mastering Executive Transitions" by Navid Nazemian is a meticulously crafted resource that seamlessly blends theory with practical application. With its clear and organized structure, the book acts as a roadmap for executives embarking on new leadership roles. What truly sets it apart is its wealth of ready-to-implement advice, distilled from real-world experiences and expert insights. From managing stakeholder relationships to driving organizational change, each chapter equips readers with actionable strategies and tools for success. Whether you're facing your first executive transition or seeking to refine your leadership skills, this book is an invaluable companion on the journey to mastery in the realm of executive leadership. I suggest this book not only to the newly appointed executives but also to CHRO and HR directors.
Profile Image for Maria Paula Castellanos Monroy.
820 reviews19 followers
August 2, 2024
A book to be mentally trained.

The book focuses on helping executives successfully overcome career transitions by overcoming the various obstacles they face professionally and personally.

As I was reading this book, I was thinking about when they train athletes, many of them to achieve a result must not only be trained physically but above all mentally. Here it works the same way. Addressing the common challenges that executives face during change, such as building trust, managing teams and developing strategies for successful change requires mental training and a change in mindset and this book does just that. It is mental and practical training so you can go out into the world and make it clear who you are and what you are willing to gain.

If you are an ambitious person and have a clear idea of where you want to go... don't worry, this book will show you how.
Profile Image for L Becerra.
397 reviews9 followers
August 3, 2024
the key aspects if you’re having a transition

This book is a useful tool for those who are willing to have a transition in their jobs. The author gives, from his personal experience, from business cases and with some examples from actual high executives, some advice and tools that would make the adaptation to the new role, and in some cases, new whole organizations.
I really liked the Double Diamond Framework exposed by the author, and how he stated the crucial elements needed in order to develop an overall success for executive transitions and to guarantee the best adaptation with it.
Even though it is main targeted for executives, I think there are some advice that can apply to any transition in life because it's a step-by-step guide! A very useful tool for any employee who is looking forward to an upgrade and new challenges.
1 review
December 2, 2022
With the executive supply and demand imbalance becoming a front burner concern for many HRD’s and CEO’s, it’s become even more important that when the right executives are found, their transition is super successful.

Mastering Executive Transitions: The Definitive Guide is an easy read that is filled with key insights and top tips to make this happen!

This guide should in the toolkit of every HRD and CEO who is passionate about new hires hitting the ground running, It should be ‘the’ comprehensive cheat sheet for every transitioning executive who wants to stand out, and frankly, it should be on every executive coaches Christmas list to ‘Santa’(if they haven’t got a copy already! )

Afusat Mustapha
Profile Image for Ivan M.
838 reviews22 followers
July 31, 2024
What captivated me the most about Mastering Executive Transitions is how the author writes from the perspective of employer and employee, making this book of great help in many situations and giving a sensation of completeness.

Transitioning can be scary, not everyone is ready for it but it is a necessary step for successful businesses. This book aids in this process, highlighting the most common situations and explaining the importance of a healthy and convenient transition.

Overall, this book is destined for the entrepreneur or leader looking to improve their tactics in this important subject, planning the future and resolving problems before they even happen, including a step-by-step guide for easy implementation.
Profile Image for Maps  R.
411 reviews9 followers
August 5, 2024
Transitioning careers at the executive level can be complex. Assuming a new role and adapting to new challenges can be stressful, but it can also be an opportunity to position yourself for continued success and fulfillment. Nowadays, the ability to thrive in executive transitions is a valuable skill. Nazemian explores the challenges executives face during these transitions, recognizing organizational and psychological complexities. His guide offers a plan to navigate this adventure, providing real-world examples and frameworks for building a strong personal brand, effective communication, and high-performance teams. Don’t let the transition overwhelm you. Mastering Executive Transitions provides the tools and knowledge to take control of your career and achieve success.
Profile Image for Agustina Sureda.
606 reviews13 followers
August 6, 2024
This book is a great one for executives navigating career transitions, especially because it helps to shake of those fears about the unknown. Drawing on his dual expertise in HR and executive coaching, he offers invaluable insights into the complexities of these pivotal moments. The book's practical approach, combined with real-world examples, makes it an essential tool for anyone seeking to improve their career path. The double diamond framework provides a blue print for success that is easy if you are ready to apply it. What sets this book apart is the capacity the author has to relate both the triumphs and pitfalls of career transitions, empowering readers to learn from past experiences and confidently embrace new opportunities
Profile Image for Nienke.
358 reviews1 follower
May 3, 2023
With so many existing frameworks and ideas on how to onboard having a book re-grouping that and focusing on the difference between classical onboarding and a more long term executive transition is useful. It made me make some notes ahead of my upcoming transition.

That being said there is a lot of repetition in this book, a whole lot. Even an image is inserted twice. That makes this book a perfect blinkist option; could be condensed to an article easily. Especially the business case for transitions is hashed out a lot.

In addition it also comes across as an advertising for executive transition coaches which becomes almost irritating.

Profile Image for Saya Jacaranda.
755 reviews11 followers
July 31, 2024
Change is never easy

This is the kind of book you should read if a big change is waiting for you. Whether you want to change careers or just a position within the same company, this book is great for you. I think change is never easy and always a challenge. I myself wanted to start studying a second bachelors and change careers completely. Reading this helped me so much. I was able to start the process in a structured way, with a set and clear plan on what I needed to do and when. There are some pretty concrete strategies that this book offers that helped me immensely. I can definitely recommend reading this book.
Profile Image for Evelyn.
1,284 reviews27 followers
August 1, 2024
Executive transitions are not easy, despite the fact that we often think otherwise, and in most cases they end up failing miserably.
Overall, I liked this book for a few key reasons. First of all, it is packed with experience and sage advice, which makes it an invaluable resource. Secondly, the writing is very organized so it's easy and snappy to follow. Thirdly, I feel that the author put a lot of effort into the drawings and graphics included in the pages of this title so that the reader can better interpret the information without missing any detail.
And last but not least, it is a very practical guide in which the reader is guided in a disciplined and seamless manner.
Profile Image for Píaras Cíonnaoíth.
Author 143 books206 followers
October 26, 2024
A Roadmap for Successful Executive Transitions...

"Mastering Executive Transitions" by Navid Nazemian is a detailed guide on negotiating leadership job changes. Drawing on substantial research and real-world experience, Nazemian provides a comprehensive overview of the transition process, including the critical first 100 days, role change planning, and gracious exits. The book's practical approach, which includes specific methods and a step-by-step action plan, makes it useful for executives who are currently enduring transformations.

While primarily aimed at leaders, the book is a valuable resource for HR professionals and organizations trying to strengthen succession planning and onboarding processes. Nazemian's ideas into developing trust, managing team dynamics, and applying change management tactics are widely applicable. Although some sections may be more applicable to specific scenarios, "Mastering Executive Transitions" serves as a comprehensive, practical guide for executives negotiating career transitions in today's dynamic business landscape. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Eric F.
298 reviews3 followers
January 16, 2025
Mastering Executive Transitions: The Definitive Guide by Navid Nazemian is an essential resource for anyone navigating the complex landscape of executive leadership.
The book addresses the critical issue of executive transitions, revealing that nearly 40% of these moves fail within the first 18 months, and provides a proven framework to ensure success. With a clear and structured approach, Nazemian delves into key topics such as succession planning, change management, and team dynamics. He offers practical, actionable strategies for building trust, managing team relationships, and ensuring a smooth transition. The step-by-step action plan is particularly valuable for executives preparing for a career change or those stepping into new roles. Real-life examples from industry experts add depth and relevance, making this guide a comprehensive and invaluable tool for executive coaching and leadership development.
If you’re looking to successfully manage your executive transition, this book will equip you with all the tools you need.
Profile Image for Marina  Lujan .
938 reviews15 followers
October 18, 2024
Mastering Executive Transitions is an exceptional resource that comprehensively addresses the uncertainty that often accompanies a leadership change. This uncertainty affects the new leader and the team surrounding him or her. The author, with his vast experience in the subject matter, offers a thoughtful and grounded approach. Each concept presented has deep and applicable knowledge behind it.

In my opinion, one of the book's greatest strengths lies in its organization. The logical structure allows the reader to navigate the different topics easily without feeling overwhelmed. The author ensures that the content remains engaging throughout, which keeps the reader's interest in each section. This book is not only valuable but also vital for leaders to read. Its well-balanced and organized approach, backed by the author's experience, makes this book an invaluable guide for achieving successful leadership.
Profile Image for Fanny Polchlopek.
233 reviews
November 22, 2024
Very interesting!

It's definitely never too late to learn about key corporate inputs. I worked at a company for many years, and these tips would have made a huge difference in my career. From my perspective, the book is incredibly inspiring for people to take on different roles in light of their daily responsibilities. For what purpose? To gain the visibility that few achieve—perhaps because they haven’t had the right tools at the right time.

On the other hand, I think the book is an excellent guide at a business level, as it helps readers understand the complexity of transitioning between roles and the importance of managing timing to benefit not just the company, but individuals as well. Very good narrative, with clear and effective literary devices for any reader.

Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Rocio.
345 reviews4 followers
January 17, 2025

If you're about to step into an executive role or navigating a career shift, Mastering Executive Transitions by Navid Nazemian is a must-read. This book breaks down the whole process of executive transitions in a super digestible way.
The main takeaway? Don’t rush in without a plan. Nazemian gives you a 12-step action plan that covers everything from building trust with your new team to handling the messy stuff like team dynamics and managing change. I love how practical this book is—it’s not just theory but actual tips you can start using right away. Whether you’re an aspiring exec or already in a leadership position, this guide helps you tackle the challenges that come with new roles, and make the transition smoother and more successful.
Definitely a go-to for anyone serious about leadership growth.
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