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Jakob Barandun

Job Search Strategies For C-Level Executives During Tough Times

Steering executive transitions are a challenge in good markets. So, what do leaders do in times of economic upheaval? Passive C-suite job seekers: You are still holding your current position, but you are open to vetting new opportunities. Assuming your time is limited, my primary advice would be to focus on expanding your network on LinkedIn. Your network is like a gigantic database. By finding and following companies you are interested in and finding and inviting key people to join your network (whose associations or companies you are aligned with or wish to be connected to), you can successfully grow your network in a beneficial way.


Active job seekers: If you are actively interviewing, I advise sticking to a set schedule. Make sure you have identified the two or three areas you are concentrating on to secure interviews. Create a weekly schedule with one primary activity to accomplish that day. Set realistic goals. Enjoy the sense of achievement completing them brings. It is part of a wise vetting process, and you are doing your part! Executives currently interviewing: If your interviews have stalled mid-stream, consider a follow-up email (or letter) inviting the company to consider bringing you on now to help them navigate these uncertain times. If you have an idea or story about how you have helped navigate a company through a time of change, you can briefly share that in your note or pose the topic and offer to have a call to briefly discuss. It is very important you come to the table with solutions and a positive attitude. Your calm, positive demeanor will build trust and confidence.

Below are some ideas and potential solutions for executives in transition.



1. Tap The Hidden Job Market: Going direct is by far the best method in times of flux. There are many markets right now that are doing well and have needs. Perhaps you are in one of those markets, or perhaps one of those markets is on the periphery of your background of experience. As an executive, you probably are well seasoned with respect to looking for opportunities and silver linings, especially during times of disruption. By introducing yourself to companies in industries that are stable — or, better yet, growing — you increase your chances of multiple successful interviews and offers.


2. Update Your Executive Résumé: You may have to align your executive résumé to a new market. Connect your messaging to your new market by writing to what you want. An executive résumé writer with a strong marketing background can help. Check out Career Directors International for certified executive résumé writers who specialize in helping C-suite executives.


3. Consider Board Nominations: You may have a special skill set attractive to boards right now. Strategy, security, finance, tax or regulatory expertise and industry expertise are often in-demand skills for boards.


4. Pitch Interim And Advisory Roles: When companies are hesitant to commit, consider pitching them the idea of an advisory or interim role — empowering you to contribute with maximum upside and potential to revisit a more permanent role when the seas calm.


5. Stay Up On The News: There are many great sources of C-suite news relating to jobs, recruiting and transition strategies. A few that I like include Kornferry; Challenger, Gray, and Christmas and ChiefExecutive. One of the many benefits of reading these sources is the constant flow of ideas that will keep you agile and hopefully inspired. In summary, there are no easy answers right now and a lot of unknowns ahead. In the face of this, I hope these tips will help give you ideas and strategies that can keep your transition moving forward and maximize the positive possibilities of your current opportunities.


source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2020/04/14/job-search-strategies-for-c-level-executives-during-tough-times/?sh=427e730f8c10


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