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Unlike entry and mid-level positions, executive jobs are not advertised publicly on job search sites or career pages on the company website. This makes it difficult for candidates to identify such vacancies and apply for them. In this article, we will discuss some efficient ways to seek such opportunities. But let’s start with looking at some common reasons why employers choose not to advertise them.
Reasons why executive roles are not advertised
a) To protect the organization’s position in the market
Advertising executive vacancies could lead the stakeholders to believe that the organization is weak or unstable. This has a high chance of impacting the brand image and market position. Thus, employers prefer to fill these positions secretly without many people getting to know about them.
b) To maintain a positive company culture and employee morale
70% of change programs fail due to employee resistance because in most cases, employees do not understand the reasons behind the change. This affects productivity, morale, and performance. Thus, to ensure minimal impact on employees, it makes sense for employers to avoid posting any executive vacancies publicly.
c) To avoid irrelevant applicants
Employers receive a high number of irrelevant job applications for advertised positions. In many cases, these applicants do not even possess the basic requirements or the ‘must haves’ of the job. Senior positions, which are handsomely paid, attract even more irrelevant candidates. So, to avoid an unnecessary application process, employers prefer other methods such as recruiting executive firms to headhunt the most qualified candidates for them.
How do you approach executive roles?
While there may be a few executive-level positions advertised, you will have to look for alternatives to expand your options. To optimize your job search process, we recommend tapping into the hidden job market. In this section, we will discuss the best practices to help you land an executive role.
a) Reach out to the right people
The right way to approach internal jobs such as executive positions is through networking. Optimizing your organization’s network is a quick way to learn about new opportunities. The decision to hire new leaders in a company is known to very specific people. So, while many of those that you reach out to may not have an idea of new executive openings, some may even support your candidature. Some key people you should target are:
- Colleagues in other teams and departments
- The HR team at your company
- Business leaders
b) Connect with executive search firms
Many organizations rely on external sources such as executive search firms or headhunters for hiring. As a candidate, registering yourself with such organizations would be an effective move. Some of the top companies that you can connect with are:
c) Optimize your LinkedIn profile
Your LinkedIn profile is a great tool to supplement your job search process. Developing a best-practice LinkedIn profile can help you attract recruiters and headhunters to bring you closer to your dream job. We strongly recommend you create an effective LinkedIn profile with a well-written summary and experience section.
d) Establish your personal brand
Your personal brand is a unique trait that influences your job search process. Developing a personal brand is time-consuming, but once you have established it successfully, it is only a matter of time before you land your dream job. The right brand will lead recruiters, headhunters, and hiring managers to you.
Your digital footprint is a crucial factor that influences your personal brand. Hence, you have to make sure that you are associated with the things you want to be known for. Perform a google search with your name and see what comes up. If you are linked to platforms/websites that are irrelevant, reach out to the concerned party and get your name off them.
How to build a personal brand?
Some ways to build your personal brand are:
- Create relevant content to attract people with interest in your domain.
- If you get an opportunity to speak at public speaking events, utilize and promote them on your social media accounts.
- Engage with relevant content from your profile.
- Engage with other people’s content and connect with them personally.
- Connect with people looking to publish your story using websites like HelpAReporter.
- Ask for LinkedIn recommendations to support your brand. As an appreciation, be prepared to give recommendations too.
- Make your social media a positive place and refrain from posting negative/controversial content.
Tips for an Executive Job Search Process
Looking for executive positions may sound challenging, but a strategic approach can help you optimize the results. Additionally, using the right resources and tools can take you a long way. If you require professional assistance to help you identify and apply for such vacancies, we would be more than happy to help.
