It's not only daunting but overwhelming for an executive having to search for a new job. It's the toughest of all, because these types of jobs are not publicly posted and the vacancies are kept secret locked within "7 keys" with executive search firms/ headhunters, who are retained a good amount of money to find senior executives already very well established at their careers and making a good deal of significant contribution for their existing employers.
We could say it's quite an unfair game, where those looking for a new job have less attention and opportunities to obtain their next role, while the already happy ones are the ones into consideration and being chased by headhunters.
However, there is a way out, and the only way is to Play the Game!
REBUILD YOUR LINKEDIN PROFILE ENTIRELY:
Start by rebuilding entirely your LinkedIn profile. Look at what successful senior executives look like, how they built their profiles and benchmark, while keeping your career history and accomplishments legitimate. Avoid too much job description when describing your activities, focus much more on results, and what advancements you have brought to your company as a result of your work, whether you are still working there or not.
HAVE A COMPELLING HEADLINE:
Not your job title, but the impact of you, your WHY, your cause, similar to a slogan, a sentence of 120 characters (allowed by LinkedIn) that summarizes why they should consider hiring you.
ADD A COMPELLING PHOTO TO REPRESENT THE PROFESSIONAL YOU WANT TO BE CONSIDERED AS SUCH:
Make sure to have the most amazing photo, this is an either make it or break it point. Consider making your photo with a professional. If you want to be considered for an executive role, ask yourself if the photo you currently have or are considering to add to your profile represents the charismatic, senior, successful leader you want to represent. If it’s no, change it before proceeding. No photo, no game!
CONNECT WITH KEY RELEVANT PROFILES SUCH AS HEAD-HUNTERS IN THE INDUSTRY AND LOCATION, THEN POTENTIAL HIRING MANAGERS FROM COMPANIES YOU HAVE INTEREST TO WORK FOR:
Once LinkedIn profile is up and shinning, then you must expand your network on LinkedIn. Identify potential hiring managers, executive search firms who handle the industry/ segments of your interest and who work in/for the locations where you’d like to live.
MAKE SOME "NOISE", WRITE, COMMENT, “LIKE” RELEVANT ARTICLES:
Now that we have a shinning LinkedIn profile, compelling headline, an ongoing growth of LinkedIn network and you’re connected to key people, it’s time to make some “noise”.
Post articles, comment on others’ articles, relevant stuff though. Don’t get involved into anything that might affect your image, keep a positive outlook and act as an expert. Showcase your skills. Always remember that anything and everything you say may be used against you or on your favor, be self-aware to say the least.
TAG PEOPLE'S NAME ON LINKDEDIN SO THEIR CONNECTIONS GET TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU:
“TAG” others’ names when responding. You can do that on LinkedIn by adding @nameoftheperson, so their connections get to know when someone has tagged them and find out about you, this will give you exposure and visibility. They could be your next employer, business partner or head-hunter hiding the secret and so wanted job you are looking for!
ASK FOR RECOMMENDATIONS:
Have previous (preferably more senior than you) ex-colleagues write about you, ask them to recommend you a paragraph or two on LinkedIn, including those from cross-function departments, previous direct hiring managers, clients (existing and former), etc. This will bring a big boost to your professional image.
BE ACTIVE ON LINKEDIN ON A DAILY BASIS!
If you are looking for a more thorough guidance on how to find the hidden jobs on LinkedIn and shine in your career, I am career advisor with track record on assisting C+ executives and other senior professionals land their next role.
Get in touch on LinkedIn and let’s have a chat. I am also an author and speaker of “All The Secrets of Getting a New Job in Dubai, Unleashed”.
Let’s Chat!
Isabelita Castilho
IC Career Advisors
Comments