- What Executive Search Firm do I use?
- Can I Send My Resume to Recruiters for Future Jobs?
- 1. Networking, Networking, Networking
- 2. Nice to Meet You
- 3. Everything is Up to Date
- 4. Honesty is the Best Policy
- 5. Are you a Good Fit?
- 6. Show Me the Money
- 7. Don’t Oversell Yourself
- 8. Keep References Professional
- 9. Prepare to Impress
- 10. To Post or Not to Post
- 11. Pass it On
- 12. What’s their Process?
- 13. Next, Getting the Offer
- Summary
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If you’re in a C-suite, senior management, or in a high-demand specialist role and are looking for a new job opportunity, one of your first steps should be to reach out to your existing Executive Recruiter or find one. You may want to network with several to get the best results.
What Executive Search Firm do I use?
Some generalist firms cover many different industries and others that specialize in certain industries. A Google search will find you many different options. However, the best thing to do would be to find a colleague that has had a positive personal experience.
Be careful to steer away from headhunters who are out to fill a monthly quota. There are a handful of executive recruiters who do not work on contingency, collecting a fee for every job filled. These firms tend to use recruitment research techniques and are much more interested in finding the right fit for their client’s work culture.
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Recruiters may create a profile for you and add you to their database if they are impressed with your resume. Don’t expect them to take too much time with you as their main focus is on finding candidates for the current positions they are looking to fill.
Once you find a recruiter, here are some tips for working with them:
1. Networking, Networking, Networking
Do not overlook this one. Take the time to build a relationship with executive recruiters. If their current search doesn’t land you a new job, maybe their next one will if they have a positive experience and a good relationship with you. Interact with them via LinkedIn, Twitter, and other platforms that they are active on. Stay in touch by reaching out to them via email occasionally.
2. Nice to Meet You
If possible try to meet your recruiter in person or at least via a
3. Everything is Up to Date
Make sure your resume is not only current but also that all your social networks are optimized for search engine visibility. This SEO-friendly approach will make it easier for recruiters and potential employers to find you.
4. Honesty is the Best Policy
Most recruiters do background checks so be sure you don’t exaggerate any of your past job experiences, education, credentials, or accomplishments. This shouldn’t have to be said, but always tell the truth during your interviews. If you want to keep a good reputation with your recruiter and their firm you don’t want a black eye from a half-truth or being dishonest.
5. Are you a Good Fit?
Conduct thorough research on the hiring company and thoughtfully evaluate if you’re ready for a job change, are open to relocation (if necessary), and are a good match for the position. This approach prevents wasting both your time and the recruiter’s. Additionally, explore job review sites to assess employee ratings and feedback, gaining further insight into the company’s work environment.
6. Show Me the Money
Recruiters have a salary range to work with, but usually hold back and don’t offer the top salary first thing. Unless they start by letting you know that their offer is a maximum salary, be prepared to negotiate above their first offer. Other things to ask about and possibly negotiate are bonuses, (signing, monthly, quarterly, annually), moving expenses (if applicable), vacation packages, and other perks.
7. Don’t Oversell Yourself
Ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile aren’t overloaded with industry jargon, as it can come across as excessive. While it’s important to maintain professionalism and incorporate relevant keywords, striking the right balance is key. Seeking feedback from peers within your industry can provide valuable insights and help refine your approach.
8. Keep References Professional
Carefully select the references that you offer. You should only include professional relationships that you have and not family or friends. Are you sure that they will give you a positive reference? Check that you have their current contact details. Reach out to who you list as a reference to prepare them so that they may receive a reference request and thank them ahead of time.
9. Prepare to Impress
Exercise caution not just in making a strong first impression but also in consistently impressing throughout the process. This includes timely communication, demonstrating the highest level of professionalism, and dressing appropriately for both in-person and video interviews.
10. To Post or Not to Post
Always be mindful of how you present yourself on social media, aware that potential future employers might review your past posts. It might be necessary to retrospectively conduct an audit of your social media history, removing any posts that could be viewed unfavorably. Posts containing content that raises red flags can significantly undermine your prospects for future job opportunities. Maintaining a professional online presence is crucial, as it reflects on your brand and can influence an employer’s decision-making process regarding your suitability for a position.
11. Pass it On
If you are approached regarding a job opportunity that doesn’t align with your interests or career goals, but you know someone who would be an ideal candidate, consider passing on the referral. This gesture not only helps a colleague or friend but also positions you as a valuable resource for future referrals, significantly enhancing your relationship with the recruiter.
By actively engaging in this collaborative process, you demonstrate your industry insight and willingness to support your professional network, which can lead to mutually beneficial connections and opportunities down the line.
12. What’s their Process?
Executive recruiters each have their unique processes. Inquire about their timeline for feedback and clarify the nature of any follow-up communications and actions you should anticipate. This approach ensures you have a clear understanding of the next steps and keeps you informed throughout the selection process.
13. Next, Getting the Offer
If you receive an interview invitation or, even better, a job offer, that’s excellent news. However, make sure to conduct thorough research before accepting. Should you find the opportunity unsuitable, it’s crucial to communicate your reasons for declining to your recruiter.
This feedback aids them in refining your profile within their database, ensuring future opportunities are more closely aligned with your career objectives and preferences. This proactive approach fosters a more productive relationship with your recruiter and enhances the chances of finding an ideal match.
Summary
Navigating the landscape of executive recruitment requires a blend of strategy, communication, and self-awareness. By leveraging these insights and maintaining a proactive, open dialogue with recruiters, you position yourself as a standout candidate in a competitive market. Remember, success in this journey is not just about landing a job but building enduring professional relationships that can shape the trajectory of your career. Keep these strategies in mind to unlock new opportunities and propel your career to new heights.
Using his twenty-five years of experience, New York Times bestselling author Martin Yate has established a set of rules for job interviews that is sure to get you noticed.
