UPDATE: As millions contemplate career changes, former Coach CEO Lew Frankfort reveals transformative strategies that can redefine your professional path. Just today, Frankfort shared his journey from social services to leading a billion-dollar brand, highlighting five critical ways to successfully pivot your career.
Why This Matters NOW: In a world where the average person changes careers about seven times, understanding how to navigate these transitions is more important than ever. Frankfort’s insights can inspire those feeling stuck or uncertain about their next move.
Frankfort’s career journey took a pivotal turn when he faced rejection after business school. Passed over for a promotion by Mayor Ed Koch, who deemed him “too principled” for the role, Frankfort decided to seek challenges outside the government sector. “I wanted a job that would challenge me and to help build something meaningful,” he stated. This rejection fueled his determination to pursue opportunities that aligned with his values.
One serendipitous conversation changed everything for Frankfort. During a cab ride with a colleague, he expressed his desire for a new direction. His colleague suggested he connect with Miles Cahn, the founder of a small bag business seeking a protégé. “That’s how I met Coach’s founder,” Frankfort recalls. His determination and willingness to learn led to a series of interviews, with Frankfort ultimately landing the job that would kickstart his extraordinary career.
In his early role as vice president of marketing, Frankfort didn’t shy away from hard work. He installed an air conditioning system in the factory, launched Coach’s first mail-order business, and opened the brand’s first store in 1981. Under his leadership, Coach grew from $6 million to a staggering $5 billion in revenue. “I held the CEO position until I retired in 2015,” Frankfort stated, reflecting on his nearly three-decade-long tenure.
Frankfort emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, urging professionals to adopt a mindset of curiosity. “Never assume you have all the answers. Ask a lot of questions,” he advised, underscoring that this approach can lead to deeper insights and opportunities for growth.
When pivoting careers, many individuals mistakenly believe they must abandon their past experiences. However, Frankfort encourages leveraging these skills. “My years in government taught me many skills that also applied to business,” he noted. This perspective can enhance job interviews and success in new roles, as past experiences often provide unique advantages.
Next Steps: For those eager to implement these strategies, Frankfort encourages networking and seeking mentors within your desired industry. He also advises professionals to embrace their diverse skills and experiences as valuable assets in their career transitions.
As the workforce evolves, Frankfort’s insights serve as a beacon for those navigating the complexities of career changes. With the right mindset and strategies, anyone can make their mark in a new field.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights on career development and professional growth from leading figures in the industry.
