Checking authentication status...

Access Denied

You are authenticated, but your account is not authorized to view this roadmap.

To gain access, copy your User ID (UID) below and ask the administrator to add it to the Firestore list.

UID: Retrieving UID...

Secure Access

OR

We'll send a secure sign-in link to your email. Click it to sign in without a password.

Your Strategic Bridge to the CIO Role

Interactive guide to leveraging your 6-month career break.

About Steve Guise

Turning a Break into a Strategic Advantage

This roadmap is designed to transform your 6-month break from a potential resume gap into a compelling story of intentional[...]

How to Frame Your Career Break

The key is to proactively control the narrative. This wasn't "time off"; it was a "strategic sabbatical" or a "planned professional development perio[...]

Potential Concerns (The 'Old' Narrative)

  • Lost momentum or ambition.
  • Became disconnected from industry trends.
  • Skills are no longer current.
  • Simply burned out and disengaged.

Strategic Framing (Your 'New' Narrative')

  • Intentional pause to define next leadership chapter.
  • Deep dive into healthcare-specific tech trends.
  • Targeted upskilling and executive education.
  • Recharged and focused for the next major challenge.

Phase 1: Pre-Break Foundation (Now - Break Start)

Before you step away, lay the groundwork. These actions ensure you leave on a high note and have a clear plan, making your [...]

1. Craft Your "Next Chapter" Narrative

+

Clearly define what you want from your next role and why. This isn't just a job hunt; it's a career capstone. Document your ideal role, company culture, and the impact y[...]

2. Strategic Off-boarding & Networking

+

Leave your current role flawlessly, ensuring a smooth transition. Simultaneously, inform your trusted network (mentors, former colleagues, recruiters) about your plan. F[...]

3. Plan Your Sabbatical Activities

+

Outline a high-level schedule for your break. Which courses will you take? Which conferences might you attend? Who do you plan to connect with for informal chats? Havin[...]

Phase 2: The Strategic Sabbatical (6 Months)

This is your time for intentional growth. Balance genuine rest with targeted activities that will make you a stronger CIO c[...]

6-Month Focus Allocation

This chart visualizes a balanced approach to your sabbatical, ensuring you cover rest, learning, and networking. This is a powerful visu[...]

Months 1-2: Decompress & Explore

Truly disconnect. Travel, spend time with family, pursue hobbies. This is crucial for returning with genuine energy. Use this time for high-level expl[...]

Months 3-4: Targeted Upskilling

Deepen your expertise. Enroll in an executive education course (e.g., related to digital transformation in healthcare, AI strategy, or financial acume[...]

Months 5-6: Re-engage & Prepare

Begin activating your network more formally. Update your CV and LinkedIn profile to reflect your sabbatical activities and new skills. Start informati[...]

Phase 3: The CIO Job Hunt (Post-Break)

Approach your job search with renewed focus and a powerful new story. Your break is now a key part of your value propositio[...]

Core Job Hunt Activities

1. Executive Branding Revamp

Your CV, LinkedIn, and personal pitch must tell the story of your strategic break. Create a dedicated section on your CV titled "Professional [...]

2. Targeted Networking

Leverage your refreshed network. Don't just ask for jobs; seek insights about challenges in the mid-sized healthcare space. This positions you[...]

3. Master the CIO Interview

Be prepared to answer "Tell me about your break" with confidence and enthusiasm. Use the narrative you've built. Practice articulating your vi[...]

Job Hunt Time Allocation

A disciplined approach is key. Focus the majority of your time on networking and preparation, not just submitting applications.