The New Exec Playbook: Your Most Important First Moves in Your First Executive Role (with Yue Zhao)

The Product Manager

Starting a new job is tough—but stepping into an executive role is a whole different challenge. With high stakes, unrealistic expectations, and all eyes on you, how do you navigate this transition successfully?

In this episode, Hannah talks with Yue Zhao, executive coach and founder of The Uncommon Executive, about the realities of executive life, adapting to new dynamics, and essential steps beyond the typical 90-day plan.

Resources from this episode:

• Subscribe to The Product Manager newsletter
• Connect with Yue on LinkedIn
• Check out The Uncommon Executive

Chapters

1. The New Exec Playbook: Your Most Important First Moves in Your First Executive Role (with Yue Zhao) (00:00:00)

2. Meet Yue Zhao (00:01:04)

3. Transitioning to an Executive Role (00:02:21)

4. Building Relationships with Peers (00:04:18)

5. Creating Psychological Safety (00:07:16)

6. Debunking Myths About Executive Life (00:12:21)

7. Adapting to Company Size and Maturity (00:16:05)

8. Navigating Board and Investor Relations (00:17:55)

9. Early Challenges for New Executives (00:22:32)

10. Key Strategies for New Executives (00:25:51)

11. Setting Boundaries and Work-Life Balance (00:28:57)