{
  "id": 1686907,
  "title": "Aufstiegschancen: „Excel statt Exzellenz“: Drei Faktoren entscheiden, wer es in deutschen Firmen nach ganz oben schafft",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/18/aufstiegschancen-excel-statt-exzellenz-drei-faktoren-entscheiden-wer",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-08-18T09:51:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Handelsblatt",
    "slug": "handelsblatt",
    "url": "https://www.handelsblatt.com/karriere/fuehrungskraefte-diese-drei-faktoren-entscheiden-ueber-den-aufstieg-im-unternehmen/100147821.html"
  },
  "original_language": "de",
  "account": "Düsseldorf - More and more hidden job applications from senior personnel consultants are revealing that boards of directors and entrepreneurs doubt their top talent, and are searching for replacements for the incumbents. Personal consultant Nicolas von Rosty, Head of Germany at Heidrick & Struggles, says that \"many managers are waiting,\" some even in a state of shock. Executives and business leaders are hesitant to make radical decisions amid crises, trade conflicts, and artificial intelligence (AI), such as laying off staff, relocating sites, or restructuring business models. Regardless of the lack of relevant experience or suitable personality to tackle challenges, the wrong people can have disastrous consequences, stating that mistaken placements at key positions stifle organizations. They lose their strength as strategic decisions are not boldly made or changes are blocked. Employee turnover increases, and talent goes missing, leading to a decline in productivity and innovation. Three factors play a crucial role in determining who reaches the top in German companies.",
  "summary": "Viele Unternehmen befördern stets die gleichen Menschentypen und lassen die Belegschaft frustriert zurück. Experten erklären die entscheidenden Mechanismen – und was sich ändern muss.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Handelsblatt",
        "title": "Opportunities for advancement: \"Excel instead of excellence\": Three factors determine who makes it to the top in German companies",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/17/aufstiegschancen-excel-statt-exzellenz-drei-faktoren-entscheiden-wer",
        "published": "2026-08-17T13:23:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}