This article offers tips to overcome these hurdles and help you navigate a path to securing the executive role that is right for you.

1. Global Search Firms

Seek out the “SHREK” firms and work with them. SHREK is an acronym for “Spencer Stuart,” “Heidrick & Struggles,” “Russell Reynolds,” Egon Zehnder,” and “Korn Ferry,” the five big executive search firms that handle the bulk of executive search globally.

They all have extensive networks and relationships at board level that they leverage to unearth roles before they hit the market. They then match these roles to their database of candidates, usually filling them without the need for any advertising. Being on their books can provide invaluable access to these top-tier opportunities.

2. Boutique Search

Leaders in specialised fields such as Digital, Technology and Transformation should partner with a boutique search firm such as Momentum Search and Selection. Specialised recruiters often have a deep understanding of the market and know what it takes to be successful in securing your next career opportunity.

3. Cultivate Partners

Busy senior managers often focus only on their current role as they strive to do the best they can. They can be so busy that when they start looking for a new role, they don’t have a job search strategy or a list of partners they can rely on.

Therefore, it is important to build and maintain a list of reliable partners you can call on when needed. This includes mentors, search firms, and industry consultancies that can tip you off about potential opportunities.

Be sure to reach out every 6 to 12 months to find out what is happening in the market, so you are well positioned for the future.

4. Your Network

Recognise your network, especially to help you uncover hidden opportunities. A high percentage of senior roles will never be advertised, so you need to work your network, attend relevant events, and have a list of search firms that you can call to open doors for you.

5. Interim Management

Interim positions can be a strategic career move to help you gain relevant experience while you wait for the ideal permanent position. Interim roles are usually contract roles where you step into a senior management or executive role for a short time.

They can help you establish connections in an organisation that are not possible from outside.

Use the role to demonstrate your expertise and try to convince the organisation that you can fill the role permanently. 

6. Pro Bono Work

Consider exploring board roles on a pro bono basis for a not-for-profit or community organisation. As well as enriching your career, the learning curve is helpful for personal growth while making a meaningful contribution to society.

7. Career Coach

Engage a coach to develop a career strategy. Some great career coaches have a recruitment background, so they understand the challenges and can offer insights into getting a job.

They can give tailored guidance on how to improve yourself and take the next step in your career.

CONCLUSION

By following these steps, aspiring executives can navigate the competitive job landscape with the confidence to maximise their potential for success.

To find out more, email Alan Herrity, Director, Momentum Search and Selection.