What to Do Before You Say ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ to a New CIO Role

“The common feedback I get was always, ‘I didn't realize that there was so much I could do before I started.’ That surprised me.” — Tom Fuller, Senior Executive Partner, Gartner

Gartner research shows that nearly one out of four executives is in transition at any given time. However, 39% are underperforming in their transitions. Join host and Gartner VP Analyst, Alicia Mullery, and guest Tom Fuller, Gartner Senior Executive Partner, as they explore best practices — and common missteps — from CIOs who have successfully transitioned to new companies, industries or first-time roles.

Episode highlights:

• What does it mean when a CIO is “in transition”? (3:01)
• Who should CIOs speak with to determine the role's specific priorities? (9:37)
• Why is the CIO interview process often "more seduction than selection"? (11:46)
• How do you decide if a particular job is not a good fit for you? (14:06)
• What preparations should CIOs make before their first day? (14:41)
• What is the most productive mindset before starting a new job? (16:06)

For non-Gartner clients, see more with 4 Secrets to Success for Executives Starting a New Role. For Gartner clients, see our CIO Orientation Guide.

About the Guest

Tom Fuller is a Senior Executive Partner at Gartner and specializes in CIO executive transitions, IT operating models, IT strategy and organizational effectiveness. Tom has worked in multiple sectors both in the U.K. and internationally, including retail, financial services, manufacturing and government. Before Gartner, he held senior leadership roles within the John Lewis Partnership’s IT organization and prior to that was a senior member of Deloitte’s IT Effectiveness team.