5 Executive Job Hunting Tactics You Should Try

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Have you ever wondered how top executives find and land high-profile jobs?

The secret often lies in their job-search strategies. To make themselves the most attractive candidates for open positions, executives use a few top tactics, according to the staffing firm Robert Half. Executives' strategies include making themselves more visible, expanding their networks and being open to moving for job opportunities.

"At the executive level, there are fewer job opportunities and there's more at stake for the companies doing the hiring, which means that contenders for these positions can expect a longer, more involved process," Paul McDonald, senior executive director of Robert Half, said in a statement. "Networking isn't just a supplemental job-hunting tactic at this point — it's the primary tactic."

To help jobseekers find high-profile jobs the way top executives do, Robert Half offers several tips:

• Increase your visibility: Build up your credibility by establishing yourself as an expert. Try writing articles for trade publications and blogs; take on leadership roles with professional associations and nonprofit organizations; and participate in online discussions, webinars, and podcasts that are relevant to your field and industry.
• Solidify your network: Since many leadership hires result from referrals and connections, rather than job postings or applications, it's critical to increase the strength of your network. Build your network to include people at all levels across many fields, not just those within your current industry. In addition, try adding recruiters who are not currently part of your network.
• Expand your boundaries: If you are willing to relocate for a job, more doors will open for you. Before starting the job search process, figure out how willing you are to move to another city and what type of position it would take to make you change locations.
• Boost leadership and communication skills: Regardless of your specific position, companies today expect their employees to handle a wide range of functions within the organization. Employers also often need their workers to be visible to both internal and external audiences, which makes solid communication skills critical. When applying for jobs, be ready to show off your knack for working well with others, along with your ability to write, speak and present to a variety of audiences.
• Have patience: It often takes companies longer to fill top positions. While you might be a technical fit for an open position, organizations are also looking for candidates who are a cultural fit, and it can take longer to determine this. So, be prepared for a longer process.

McDonald also encourages workers trying to land top positions to work with a trusted mentor during the job search process.

"Great advisors can counsel you based on the challenges they faced when navigating their own careers," McDonald said.