(917) 447-1815The Ultimate Executive Job Search Guide
Here is some placeholder text, watch the video below for the current job search landscape blah blah blah
Keeping Your Mindset Positive To Shorten The Job Searching Process
The job search process can be a challenging and daunting experience for many individuals. However, it is essential to recognize that a successful job search is not solely dependent on submitting resumes to job postings. A critical factor that can significantly influence the outcome is cultivating a positive mindset. Research has consistently shown that individuals with a positive attitude tend to exhibit increased confidence, improved resilience, and a more strategic approach to finding suitable job opportunities. By adopting a positive mindset, job seekers can better navigate the job market, overcome obstacles, and ultimately achieve their career goals.
Here are three mindset changes that can help you shorten the job searching process and get hired faster. These mindset changes can empower you to approach your job search with confidence and purpose.
Stop Calling it a "Job Search"
Start calling it a "job landing" instead. This mindset change can empower you more when you use words like "job landing." It's about having a mission, purpose, and destination. Instead of feeling like you're just searching for a job, you're on a mission to land the right job for you.
Start with the End in Mind
Begin with the end in mind, even if you're not sure what you want to do. Break down the end in mind into smaller chunks if needed. Always have an end in mind; what's your purpose? This mindset change can help you stay focused and motivated throughout the job search process.
Believe You Can Do It
Don't psych yourself out; try new tactics and tweak them. Believe that there's always a solution, even if it's not immediately apparent. This mentality comes out in your interviews, language, writing, and tone. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and you'll be more likely to land the job you want.
But here's the thing: the job search process is not just about submitting resumes to job postings. In fact, 60-65% of hires happen through employee referrals, social media, and personal contacts. And 10-15% of hires happen through third-party recruiters. So, it's not just about applying to job postings; it's about building relationships and networking.
Having a positive mindset can make a big difference in your job search. It can help you stay motivated, focused, and confident. And it can help you land the job you want faster.
So, what are you waiting for? Start implementing these mindset changes today and watch your job search process speed up. below.
Think Like a Marketer
Waiting for recruiters to call you with a job opening…
Trolling job boards hoping the right job surfaces so you can scramble your resume and cover note and submit it via the online portal – hopefully capturing a schmidge of a recruiter’s glance to garner an interview call…
These are some of the ways accomplished, well-paid executives are looking for their next well-paying leadership jobs.
Does this sound pathetic to you?
Does this sound like you?
An accomplished person who has worked insanely hard to climb the corporate ladder, elbowing competitors out of your way to land in a coveted position?
Your entire career looks like a winner at every turn – only to now be looking for an ever more elusive high-level role when you’re at your highest salary and least flexibility?
I mean, who wants to work 90 hours a week anymore? At this point, it’s about working smarter.
Don’t depend on a job board to post the right job for you to grovel over and then scramble to apply to.
Don’t wait for some recruiter to call you with a job opening that might be a fit – because chances are it’s been pitched to two dozen other executive grovellers already.
Does this sound like the behavior of a winner to you?
If you have hustled to win your whole career, why would you now take the passive approach?
Why would you stop the hustle when it’s probably never been more important?
You want to finish the last 15-20 years of your career on top, right?
So why depend on the pedestrian job boards or wait for the elusive-could-win-the-lottery-feeling-dispenser, aka the third-party recruiter, to call you?
You can make these interviews happen for yourself.
Like you have made everything else happen in your life:
By taking back control and doing it yourself.
What if I told you that you can learn how to market yourself, like a marketer, to generate job leads for yourself?
Are you making yourself easy to find?
Not just on job boards but being effectively active on LinkedIn by attending conferences, doing professional development, publishing your insights, joining industry members groups, etc.
Are you positioning yourself this way?
Think like a marketer and market yourself directly to decision-makers in the hiring process to land interviews.
Let us audit your resume, LinkedIn Profile, and job search tactics to show you where you can make improvements to get the interviews you want from your search.
If you have a sitting duck mindset and you are waiting for people to call or posts to appear, you will not be successful in your search.
I’ll tell it to you straight to save you some time.
Start to think and act like a marketer to take back control of your search and generate your own interviews.
You will have interviews. No doubt.
So don’t wait another minute and stop the struggle.
Why Is The Job Search Is Harder Now?
Over the years, there has been a significant shift in how job seekers approach their job search, and the challenges they face in finding employment. The job market has become increasingly competitive, and it's essential to understand the reasons behind this trend. In this post, Here are five key reasons why the job search has become harder today and what job seekers can do to overcome these challenges.
Job Applications Are Up 30%
While it may seem like a good thing that more people are looking for work, from a recruiter's perspective, this means they're receiving a massive influx of applications. This makes it harder for them to sift through and find the most qualified candidates. As a result, it's becoming increasingly difficult for job seekers to stand out and get noticed.
Open Jobs Are Down
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of job openings has decreased significantly over the past few years. This means that there are fewer available positions for job seekers to apply for, making it even harder to find a job.
Executive Recruitment Engagements Are Down
Many companies are reducing their reliance on third-party recruiters, opting instead to handle hiring in-house. This means that job seekers who were previously relying on recruiters to find them a job are now having to take a more proactive approach.
Recruiting Technology Has Made It Easier for Candidates to Apply But Harder for Recruiters to Evaluate Applications
With the rise of applicant tracking systems (ATS) and other digital tools, it's become easier for job seekers to apply for jobs with just a few clicks. However, this has also led to a surge in applications, making it harder for recruiters to find the most qualified candidates.
Job Descriptions Are Often Nebulous, Unclear, or Unrealistic
Many job postings are vague or poorly written, making it difficult for job seekers to understand what the employer is looking for. This can lead to much wasted time and effort as job seekers apply for jobs that aren't a good fit.
So, What Can Job Seekers Do to Overcome These Challenges?
- Tailor Your Application Materials: Highlight the skills and experience that align with the job description, and avoid generic cover letters and resumes.
- Build a Strong Professional Network: Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people on LinkedIn. This can help you learn about job opportunities before they're publicly posted and get your foot in the door with potential employers.
- Be Proactive and Persistent: Don't be discouraged if you don't hear back from an employer immediately. Keep following up, and be prepared to make multiple applications before landing a job.
- Stay Positive and Focused: Job hunting can be a long and challenging process, but it's essential to stay motivated and keep working towards your goals.
In conclusion, the job search has become harder today due to a combination of factors, including increased competition, decreased job openings, and changes in how recruiters work. However, by understanding these challenges and taking a proactive approach, job seekers can increase their chances of success and find a job that's a good fit.
Is Your Uniqueness Is Killing Your Executive Job Search?
One common obstacle among executives is their uniqueness. Yes, you read that right – being unique can actually hurt your job search if you're not careful. Let's explore three signs that your uniqueness is killing your executive job search and how to overcome these challenges.
Sign #1: Lack of Motivation
When you're unique, you might assume that people won't understand or appreciate your differences. This can lead to a lack of motivation to reach out to others, network, or even apply for jobs. You might feel like you're too different, unusual, or unconventional to fit in with the traditional corporate world. This negative mindset can lead to a reluctance to explore new avenues and connections, making it harder to find a job that aligns with your skills and experience.
Sign #2: Lack of Understanding
Not doing the work to understand how your uniqueness can appeal to others is another way your uniqueness can hurt your job search. You might be so focused on your differences that you forget to research your prospects and target roles. This can lead to a lack of understanding of how to sell yourself and your unique qualities to others. You might struggle to articulate your value proposition, making it harder to stand out in a crowded job market.
Sign #3: Feeling Isolated
Finally, feeling isolated and not asking for help or support can be a major obstacle to your job search. When you're unique, you might feel like you're the only one who understands your situation and that no one can relate to your experiences. This can lead to a sense of shame and isolation, making it harder to find a job that aligns with your skills and experience. You might feel like you're alone in your struggles and that no one can offer you the support and guidance you need.
So, what can you do to overcome these challenges and leverage your uniqueness to your advantage? One thing is to reach out to others and ask for help and support. You don't have to do it alone! Another thing is to research your prospects and target roles to understand how your uniqueness can appeal to others. And finally, focus on your strengths and the value you bring to the table rather than your differences.
Being unique can be a major asset in your executive job search, but only if you're willing to do the work to understand how your uniqueness can appeal to others. Don't let your uniqueness isolate you – reach out for help and support, and focus on your strengths and the value you bring to the table.
Are These Beliefs Sabotaging Your Executive Job Search?
As an executive job seeker, you're likely no stranger to the challenges of finding a new role. But are there certain beliefs or mindsets that are holding you back from achieving your goals? Are these three common beliefs that can sabotage your executive job search?
A Negative Mindset at Networking Events
Have you ever walked into a networking event with a mindset of "I'm only going to waste my time" or "I'm not going to get anything out of this"? If so, you're not alone. Many people approach networking events negatively, leading to a lack of progress in their job search. But what if I told you that having a positive mindset can make all the difference?
When attending networking events, it's essential to approach them with an open mind and a willingness to learn and connect with others. By doing so, you can increase your chances of making meaningful connections and finding new opportunities. So, how can you shift your mindset? Try approaching each event with a sense of curiosity and adventure. Ask yourself what you hope to gain from the event and what you can bring to the table. By doing so, you'll be more likely to make connections and take away valuable insights.
Negotiating a Lower Rate for Career Coaching Services
Have you ever considered hiring a career coach or advisor to help you navigate your job search? If so, you may have considered negotiating a lower rate for their services. But is this approach really the best way to go? Negotiating a lower rate can be unfair to the coach or advisor and can also be seen as contradictory to the goals of your job search.
Instead of trying to negotiate a lower rate, I recommend focusing on finding a coach or advisor who is a good fit for your needs and budget. Do your research, read reviews, and look for a coach who has a track record of success and is willing to work with clients to achieve their goals. By doing so, you'll be more likely to find a coach who can help you achieve your goals rather than trying to cut corners.
Complaining About Ageism
Finally, let's talk about ageism. As an executive job seeker, you may have encountered ageism in your job search, where younger people are assumed to be more qualified or competent. But is this approach really fair or justified? In my opinion, complaining about ageism can be seen as a form of ageism itself and can limit your opportunities.
Instead of complaining about ageism, I recommend focusing on building relationships and connections with others, regardless of age. Be open-minded, willing to learn from others, and avoid assumptions or stereotypes. By doing so, you'll be more likely to find new opportunities and achieve your goals.
Having a positive mindset, being open to new experiences, and avoiding negative stereotypes are all essential for a successful executive job search. By recognizing and overcoming these common beliefs, you can increase your chances of finding a new role and achieving your goals. Remember, your job search is an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with others. Approach it with a sense of curiosity and adventure, and you'll be more likely to achieve success.
Job Search Using The R.O.T.H Method
When a frustrated client who is in a job search tells me something like, “I have submitted my resume to over 300 job postings, and I have only received one interview,” I want to scream:
“Joel, get off the job boards!” a-la-Risky Business - where Joel’s mom tells him to get off the babysitter with the house surrounded by police.
Seriously, get off the job boards.
Stop spending all your time on the job boards, or the job search police will be coming for you.
I hear job seekers complain that HR never calls them back, but these job seekers never try to reach out to anyone else.
These job seekers say that sending their resume to the job boards is like sending it into a black hole - but then they keep doing it.
And these job seekers wonder why they are frustrated!?!?
Effective executive job search tactics in today’s economy embrace both the use of technology and tried-in-true traditional methods - they use The R.O.T.H. Method.
What is the R.O.T.H. Method?
Simple.
The R.O.T.H. in the R.O.T.H. Method means to Reach Out To Humans.
Get away from submitting to job postings and ATS systems.
Stop waiting for recruiters to call.
Get on the phone and talk to a human.
Find the email address of a new contact on LinkedIn and send an email.
Identify where your hiring manager's audience congregates both online and offline.
Then, send consistent, proactive messaging to those individuals in the audience, with or without a job posting present, to receive serious interview traction.
And just to get the ball rolling, here are 5 job search tactics you can start using TODAY that leverage the R.O.T.H. Method:
1. Propose your position to an organization.
Don’t wait for the right job posting or a recruiter to call with an opening. Research the company’s needs and connect with prospective bosses using The R.O.T.H. Method. Propose how you can add value diplomatically - don’t assume the company has a problem in this area. Outline how you can contribute directly to their bottom line.
2. Introduce yourself online. Develop the relationship offline.
CEOs and C-level executives now embrace social media now more than ever to communicate news and demonstrate influence. Executive job seekers can use this news as leverage to reach out and make an introduction. Network online to make an introduction and then take it offline to develop the relationship - this is really the essence of The R.O.T.H. Method.
Savvy executives use social more precisely and deliberately for branding and lead generation. They are not on social media just to be on it.
3. Passive is the new active.
Taking an active approach on social media attracts talent managers. When a hiring manager/recruiter seeks out an executive candidate, that is called passive recruiting. However, the more effort an executive candidate puts into branding, they increase the likelihood of being found.
The Harvard Business Review states C-level executives attract talent using social media. Retained recruiters are also attracted to executives using social media. They want to recruit leaders who are using progressive tools to communicate a consistent message and attract talent. Therefore, taking an active approach to being a passive candidate generates results.
4. More executive roles are virtual in this global mobile economy.
High-level contract roles and executive freelancing are becoming more prolific in today’s job opportunity landscape as this arrangement allows for company resource flexibility. Candidates who are open to this type of work find work faster. Creating positions and proposing them to companies using The R.O.T.H. Method versus applying through job boards or responding to posted positions can often get an accomplished executive in the door faster - leading to direct hire work in the near future.
5. Participate in online and offline events and land interviews from the engagement.
Attend your profession’s yearly conference, make contacts, and follow up after the event. Participate in a Google chat or Zoom session by your potential next leader, then reach out to the presenter offline after the chat. Comment on blogs and then email the author with additional insights and questions to land interviews.
Each of these tactics have landed executives interviews.
The trick, though, is to be ready when opportunity knocks, so get your resume and LinkedIn Profile to confidently and concisely communicate your wins and achievements during the interview.
The Most Effective Job Search Activity You Need to Start Tracking
With all the job search activities a job seeker has to do in this employment marketplace to conduct a successful job search, it can easily become overwhelming.
Submitting resumes to job postings, going to networking events, reaching out to your contacts, and introducing yourself to new people at target companies—and we have not even included social media interactions, interview preparation, and many other actions. It’s enough to make your head spin if you let it.
Through my years of recruiting and job search consulting, I have boiled all of the activity down to one real job search activity metric that needs to be tracked. Tracking this metric each week provides a litmus test for you to determine if all of your social media interactions, in-person venues, online research time, and phone activity are purposefully focused or just plain busy work. You ask, “What is this one metric, Lisa?”
The metric to track is:
How many conversations are you having each week with people who can help you with your job search?
(to be clear, I define a ‘conversation’ as a back-and-forth dialogue about your job search among two or more people that can happen over the phone, in person, or by email.)
Yes, that’s it. That is what all of this activity comes down to, in my opinion.
The number of conversations per week in an active job search can vary based on the person’s situation—but I would say any active search with less than 5-10 conversations will experience slow progress. Ask yourself, is all of this social media posting, resume submission, networking event attending, coffee meeting, lead generation, online research, and blog writing activity getting you qualitative conversations with the right people who will lead you to getting hired?
I pose this question to job seekers often. This is often the pivotal point missing from the job search when people are experiencing lackluster results and bordering on job search burnout. Diagnostic conversations I have with frustrated job seekers who are not seeing results can often go like this:
Job Seeker: I am spending 10-30 hours a week on my job search and I am not receiving many (or any) calls for job interviews. I am getting really frustrated.
Me: What activities are you doing for your job search?
Job Seeker: I do all this research online for jobs, and I have submitted to over 150+ job postings over the last three months. I have received 2 phone calls for interviews, and I am frustrated.
Me: How many conversations have you had with people at the companies or people who can introduce you to hiring managers are these companies during the course of those 150+ submissions?
Job Seeker: Well, I do not really talk to anyone at the companies directly at this point. I hope they call me when I submit my resume… I mainly submit through job postings and attend job seeker support groups.
Me: Are you speaking to contacts who are employed, as well? Are you asking your network at these events you attend who they know at those companies to help you gain an introduction?
Job Seeker: Not really. In hindsight, I am asking if they know of open jobs that I can apply to….
You see it all comes back to the conversations you are having to gauge if the activities you are doing are moving your job search forward. Here are other ideas to help you audit your effectiveness:
- Are you posting on LinkedIn but not getting much from it? What do your profiles look like when people find you? When was the last time you reached out to a person from these mediums to speak on the phone or meet for coffee in a public place? Use social media as a gateway to conversations.
- Not see much activity after a networking event? Are you following up properly after a networking event with people who can introduce you or be a conduit to other influencers? The job you find probably won’t come directly from the networking event—you need to follow up with people after the event to find those gold nuggets.
- Are you researching for hours? Feeling like you are not getting anywhere? Ask yourself how many outbound calls or emails you make/send to PEOPLE due to that research. Sending emails to job postings does not count as communication activity. People hire people…so reach out to people and track it accordingly.
- Submitting to job postings? I wouldn’t say stop, but for each submission you make, spend time finding a possible hiring manager to introduce yourself to and/or find contacts that can help you with an introduction to the firm.
The goal of all your job search activity is to generate conversations that advance your job search. Ask yourself before your next job search action, “How is this going to help me chat with a person about my search?” to help you stay focused on the right activities to pursue.
About Lisa
Lisa Rangel and The Chameleon Team are the only executive resume writing, LinkedIn profile development, and job landing consultancy who has been hired by LinkedIn and recognized by Forbes. Our 4-Stage META Job Landing System stems from decades of corporate and executive recruiting experience to position you to land your next 6 or 7-figure role faster.
