Once you reach the executive level, you should elevate your job search strategy to a higher level as well. Recruiters and hiring managers have different expectations for candidates who are conducting an executive job search\u2014and as a senior-level job seeker, you should be prepared to not only meet but exceed these expectations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep in mind these key points that executives need to be prepared for and plan for when job searching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Linda Shaffer is Chief People and Operations Officer at Checkr<\/a>, a leading HR technology company, where she handles the people and legal teams. Based on her extensive experience in hiring and doing HR for hybrid teams, Shaffer believes it\u2019s important to have a clear understanding of what you\u2019re looking for in an executive position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWhat are your goals and objectives<\/a>? What are your top priorities?\u201d Shaffer said. \u201cKnowing this will help you to narrow down your search and target positions that are a good fit<\/strong> for you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you think through the answers to those questions, it may help to have a guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bonnie Whitfield, Human Resources Director of Family Destinations Guide<\/a>, suggests that if you haven’t had any professional coaching<\/a> before, the executive-level job search would be a good time to start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cA coach can help you polish up your resume<\/a> and cover letter<\/a> so they’re ready for prime time,\u201d Whitfield said. \u201cThey’ll also help prepare you for interviews<\/a> with questions like, \u2018What is your greatest strength?\u2019 or \u2018What is your biggest weakness?\u2019 The answers will come more easily after working with a coach<\/strong> because they’ll give you examples of what other people have said in similar situations, so that you can use those same words to answer questions during an interview.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another area where a professional coach can help is in understanding what you bring to the table as a job candidate<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Senior-level managers have a career\u2019s worth of experience and skill-building under their belts, and as an executive job seeker, you need to be able to distill your background down into key selling points about your expertise and offering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With this in mind, Shaffer emphasized that it\u2019s important for executive job hunters to have a strong understanding of their most significant qualifications and experience. \u201cWhat makes you stand out from other candidates? What are your key strengths and weaknesses?<\/a> Be prepared to highlight your qualifications and sell yourself to potential employers,\u201d Shaffer said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to knowing yourself, you also need to understand what the hiring manager is looking for<\/strong>\u2014and ensure there\u2019s a fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kimberley Tyler-Smith, an executive at the career tech platform Resume Worded<\/a>, reminds executive candidates that not every company operates the same way or requires similar skill sets from their employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cSome companies may want executives who are more focused on strategy,\u201d Tyler-Smith said. \u201cIn contrast, others might prioritize people who can get things done quickly and efficiently\u2014it all depends on the company’s needs. This is why it’s essential to do some research before going in for an interview<\/a>, so you can be sure that your skills and experience align with what the company is looking for.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n When you’re at the executive level, it’s not just about what you know\u2014it’s also about who you know<\/strong>, according to Whitfield.<\/p>\n\n\n\nConsider Hiring a Coach<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Know Yourself<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Research to Align Your Skills With the Company<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Grow Your Network<\/h3>\n\n\n\n