Apologies for the long post but I want to help middle and senior executives with job search strategies.
Forget the ‘shotgun’ job search method
Many people still use the ‘shotgun’ method to conduct a job search. They read the job ads and submit a standard resume to as many job boards as they can find.
WRONG. It’s a strategy that does more harm than good. Recruiters are not likely to help you because you’ve given all potential hiring firms free access to your information. When you try to be all things to all prospective employers, you end up being nothing to no one.
Hiring managers want leaders with demonstrated success in finding creative solutions to difficult problems.
Business plans, project plans, budgets and presentations all take time to research and develop. So you research a specific job and then apply.
Focus on growth industries and specialisations
Picking an industry that is predicted to grow increases your chances of landing a new job.
Focusing your attention on a shortlist of prospective employers (as opposed to following up on every job ad you see) will make your research more manageable.
The highest paid individuals in these specialisations are those who have earned industry certifications and possess in-depth technical and managerial experience.
So a useful tactic in finding a new job is to expand subject matter expertise in those key technologies, which can include earning an industry-rated certification or master’s degree.
If you lack technical certifications or advanced degrees, you can still impress cost-conscious employers by presenting yourself as a lower cost, increasing-value team player.
Consider different business environments
There are more job opportunities than most people realise, such as start-ups, spin-offs and fast growing midsize companies.
Also consider non-profits and the public sector. Some of the largest job growth comes from federal, state and local governments.
Each of these business environments require a unique mindset and attitude.
For example, smaller, entrepreneurial firms call for flexible individuals who can change their priorities quickly and who operate in environments without a lot of process.
Consider what you’ve liked and disliked about the corporate cultures you’ve worked in. Ask yourself the standard interview questions: What is your ideal job?
Describe your best (and worst) bosses. What do you look for in a new employer? Your answers to these questions will help you determine which environment is best for you.
Compete effectively with consultants.
One of the biggest swings in the job market has been employers using consultants and contractors.
Companies have turned to consultants to scale their staffing levels up or down as needed.
To compete with consultants in this economy, job seekers need to convince prospective employers that they’ll quickly get up to speed and deliver results.
You need to demonstrate throughout—on your resume, your application and in your communications with a targeted employer—that you have delivered results on the problem the employer is facing.