Executive recruiters with global firms such as Korn Ferry, Boyden, and Egon Zehnder can be useful in providing market information, compensation, and industry updates. As an executive, you may have an established relationship with one of these firms if you have used their services. If not, it is worth an investment of your time to build relationships with two or three of the partners. Their reputation is dependent on maintaining confidentiality, which is of utmost importance to you as well. Recruiters are most applicable when you want to make a change within your industry. They are compensated to fill positions with the best-fit candidates as quickly as possible, so are not always the best sources when changing industries, and/or if you cannot clearly articulate your next best role.
Your greatest asset is your network. Trusted colleagues are an excellent source of information. As you consider whom you can confidently speak with, ask yourself the following:
- Who can I be assured will keep any discussion confidential?
- Who has experience in different industries, through their participation on boards or in executive positions?
- Who has successfully made a career change, for example, a geographical move, changed companies or industries?
- Who is well connected and always acts as a source of introductions to others?
Now you are ready to approach the market. Gather your information—your identified strengths and areas of interest, the industries you are interested in (and how you would make a meaningful contribution) and the list of people you will speak with. As an executive with a demanding job, it requires discipline to allocate time for this process. Split the tasks into manageable pieces and make time in your calendar. Complete at least one action every week.
Are you looking to make a career transition? For more on this topic, see Chapter 8, “Disarming Fear” in my book, The 360 Degree CEO: Generating Profits While Leading and Living with Passion and Principles.
My clients accelerate their results – increasing profitability, leadership performance, innovation, and accountability. I would love to discuss how I might contribute to your success. Contact me today.
If you found this beneficial, click here to sign up for my newsletter or share via social media.
© 2019 Lorraine A. Moore. All rights reserved. Permission granted to excerpt or reprint with attribution.