What does it take to get to the C-suite? Venture capitalist and former tech CEO Mike Troiano has direct experience with that journey.

“The most important thing you want to do to get to the next level is to be effective at the level you’re at,” he tells Dear HBR hosts Alison Beard and Dan McGinn. “Yes, dress for the job you want, but perform the job you have.”

Troiano takes questions from Dear HBR listeners about what to do if you’re falling off the executive track, or if you’re moving up but don’t believe in the company’s strategy. He also offers advice for interacting with a rival who could block your path to the C-suite.

Key topics include: leadership, leadership development, career planning, personal purpose and values, the realities of ambition, and managing up.

HBR On Leadership curates the best case studies and conversations with the world’s top business and management experts, to help you unlock the best in those around you. New episodes every week.