Executive appeal
Tips for conducting a management-level job search
Whether you’re already an established business executive or looking to break into a position within a company, these highly coveted careers require serious strategy to obtain.
Being in an executive role comes with significant responsibility to ensure that the department or organization thrives under your supervision.
While a referral from a professional peer can be a step in the right direction, you can still impress your way into a gig with a solid work history and a proven record. Of course, your resume should highlight your achievements and qualifications, but you can also prepare an online portfolio or networking site to go into more detail.
Research the roster of executives and decision makers within a company to get a feel for their career visions. It can be beneficial to adjust your social-media profiles to appeal to similar goals you share.
➤ Reach out to a professional network. The connections you have already made throughout your professional career can be a huge resource to rely on when searching for an executive position. For new opportunities, reach out to peers you have connected with in the past. If you are fresh out of school, reach out to respected professors, mentors or companies with which you have held internships.
Of course, pursuing an executive-level role should be handled with care to avoid coming off as pushy. Rather than asking for a job from the get-go, express your interest in sitting down for coffee or lunch to discuss the future of your industry. This initial meeting can be a great way to reconnect.
Make yourself visible. Become a pro at marketing yourself, as well as the knowledge and expertise you have to offer. A good place to start is by creating a professional social-media profile on a website where industry leaders can view your career accomplishments and goals.
Here’s where it could pay to be “pushy.” Don’t hesitate to brag about your
achievements and the impact you have had on previous ventures.
You can also get into the spotlight by volunteering to speak publicly at keynote conferences or participating in panel discussions. Showing your expertise at large gatherings allows you to network with a multitude of professionals at once.
➤ Nail the interview. Before an executive interview, it’s crucial to research the company
and become familiar with its objectives and challenges. Express your interest in contributing to the growth of the business and how past experiences can make you the perfect candidate.
Confidence is key when meeting with a hiring manager, so make sure your eye contact is constant and that you are comfortable when discussing your qualifications.