Many executives are looking to transition their careers in 2011. So what are your job search strategies, and will they help you accomplish your goals?
Here are 4 of my top job search strategies, if you are not already implementing these strategies, you should strongly consider including them in your program:
1. Start a hard target search. Do your research, find the companies and industries that will be the best fit for you and put the majority of your focus on those targets.
2. Master your "Elevator Speech". I never cease to be amazed by the number of seasoned senior executives that don't have this skill perfected. We can get you in front of the people you need to meet but if you choke during that first phone call, or interview, nothing else matters.
3. Stand out from the crowd. It's honestly not that hard to stand out among a group of potential candidates, just take the time to research the executive and company you are meeting with in advance. Go into your interview prepared know what that person and company cares about, their current challenges and be prepared with solutions of your own. Very few people put that kind of time and effort in prior to a meeting. Be one of those people and it will pay off.
4. Solid follow-up is critical. I can't stress this one enough. So after you've met someone, when and how do you follow up? This of course depends on the type of meeting a formal interview, or casual coffee .. but either way, make sure to thank the person for their time and remind them how you enjoyed the meeting. If you can include something here to make you stand out link to a website you discussed, for example, even better. Every meeting is a chance to grow your network, so remember to nurture those relationships carefully.
I hope you will implement these 4 job search strategies in 2011. These 4 simple steps will make all of the difference to help you not just find a job, but find the very best match for your experience and skill set. I would love to hear any comments or suggestions on how to stand out as an executive job seeker among a crowd of so many talented senior executives.
