InformationWeek

July 7, 1998

I'm a senior VP of technology at a small computer software firm where I have been for the last 10 years. I believe staying here will do little to enhance my future. I have more than 20 years of experience in the software industry, where I've specialized in strategic planning. I'm very good at what I do, but I don't have a bachelor of science or master of science degree, though I'm courting both. I'm also a seasoned developer. The problem is that employers tend to want people who have large-company experience that I don't have. I'm in my 40s and don't want to start at the bottom. Am I doomed, or is there something I can do to get myself out of this rut and hired by a large firm in an executive position?

With your skill base, entry into a large firm isn't as big a problem as you may think it is. Companies today are realizing that vendor packages require them to rewrite their business rules. Therefore, many of them have moved toward developing their own internal software to meet their needs, and I think you'd be positioned well to roll into that kind of work if it's what you want. But before you do, get your head out of the sand and realize that you have one of the most marketable, in-demand backgrounds in today�s market of emerging growth companies. Your background is a dream for an IPO company that needs to find talented people who have small software company experience and understand the urgency of delivering on deadline. Are you in a rut because you created it with 10 years at the same company? Look before you leap--you've got plenty of options.

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