Where are the Hidden Executive Jobs?

You have probably heard about the hidden executive job market, but how can you best take advantage of it?

The percentage of unlisted and unadvertised jobs is estimated to be somewhere between 80 and 90 percent. These are top jobs, created to accommodate specific candidates who connect and dialogue with leading companies’ hiring decision makers.

The Power of Networking

Your best strategy for accessing hidden executive jobs is networking – and your best networking partner is a qualified executive recruiter who knows your industry, knows the market, and knows you. This is not to say you cannot network on your own; in fact, you can and should. In tandem with the networks and resources of the right recruitment partner, however, your possibilities will be much broader and more lucrative than you imagined.

How to Work With a Recruiter

An essential career advancement skill is the ability to work well with a recruitment professional to ensure a win/win outcome for you and your prospective employer. Executive recruiters are employed by companies to find the right talent for their top-level roles. They seek out and build relationships with talented professionals – and then match them with the often-unadvertised positions that best meet their skill sets and aspirations.

When working with an executive recruiter:

• Be clear about your goals. Make it as easy as possible for your recruiter to understand your background, experience and what you are seeking in your next position.
• Keep your resume fresh and up to date. Ensure your resume reflects well on your specific qualifications. It should market you effectively, as it is the first document reviewed by a prospective employer.
• Perfect your elevator speech. This is the 30- to 60-second message that you will use to introduce yourself to potential hiring decision makers. Think of it as your “commercial” or personal mission statement.
• Be honest. Be upfront and honest with your executive recruiter about whether a position is right for you. This applies to such factors as experience – if the job demands 15 years’ experience and you have only five, you probably need to remove your hat from the ring – as well as salary requirements and other deal breakers.
• Keep communication lines open. Stay in touch with your executive recruiter. Let them know how your interview went. If you know that an opportunity is not the right fit for you, convey this information and explain your rationale. Your recruiter will be better armed to connect you with the right fit going forward.

The executive recruiters at BrainWorks have solutions when it comes to the best jobs and career insights for you, as you find your next C-suite position. Our senior partners have deep expertise in the industries they serve, and can counsel you on your next professional move. To learn more, read our related posts or contact us now.