Although many consider the role of CIO a career high, resting on your laurels just isn't smart. Career planning is as necessary for CIOs as it is for entry-level IT workers. Ask yourself whether your future is in the CIO role--that is, whether you want to continue in the CIO slot or move into another professional role. Your answer will determine your path and next steps. If the answer isn't clear, hire a career coach, who can help you identify aptitudes and goals and do a "gap analysis" between where you want to go and any skills or experience deficits that might delay you in getting there. If you want to remain a CIO, you still can't rest, however. Ask yourself if you have done everything you can in your current position, and if there is room for improvement. Then determine how you can do more, or do better. Also, revisit your expertise, both technical and business. Look for cross-functional teams, special projects, or other assignments that will expand your skill set. Consider taking some university courses designed especially for executives, to help you fill in some gaps.

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