How do you best evaluate a new opportunity when you aren’t necessarily looking for one?
Most job search tips and tricks are written for newly minted job seekers – the ones that recently graduated from college and are just embarking upon their careers. Tips might include how to polish your resume, utilize social media to get ahead, or put your best foot forward when networking at events. But what about the more seasoned job seekers? The ones who have a well-established career and have been working for a decade or so, and aren’t even looking to make a move? Executive search relies heavily on finding the right candidate and then selling that candidate on why they should make a move. Many individuals are satisfied enough with their current jobs or not focused on active searches. But what if the right job finds them?
#1: How Did the Opportunity Find You?
On LinkedIn? Chances are you’ve been approached by search consultants who want to talk about potential job opportunities. It is not uncommon for employees who aren’t looking to be approached by internal or external recruiters in this fashion. Before writing off any opportunity – whether you are looking or not, do a little research into who is contacting you? Is it a reputable executive search firm that seeks candidates for high- level jobs in your industry? If so, it might be worth a few minutes of your time to further investigate. You never know when the right opportunity will come knocking on your door.
#2: Get the Full Picture
Whether you are looking for a new job or you’ve been unexpectedly approached about an opportunity, at the executive level it is about more than just the job. It’s about finding the right company to call your next “work home.” Determining if the company culture matches your own is a large part of the key to a lasting and fulfilling career. Can you bring something to the table that will make a real difference to the company? Can you add value to those you’re managing or with whom you’re working? Is there still room for you to learn? What about upward growth? These are the types of questions you need to answer when evaluating your next executive move. At this level, it is about far more than simply getting the job done.
#3: Communication is Key
If you’re approached by an internal recruiter or an executive search specialist, it is important to remember that communication is vital to guaranteeing you know everything there is to know about a potential job and new company. Ask questions, gain a full understanding of the culture, and be sure you comprehend what the job responsibilities entail. Any good recruiter will give you the attention you deserve to ensure that a move feels right to you and, similarly, that you are the right fit for the company.
#4: Building the Right Relationships
So what if you’re approached by a search consultant but the job isn’t right for you? That’s okay – making the right connections with recruiters can benefit you down the road. Check in periodically and keep the lines of communication open. Even if you’re not actively looking, you may be the first person considered when the right job does come along.
Being a passive candidate puts you in the driver’s seat. Take all the right steps to ensure your next job is the right job for you and your future employer. If you or someone you know is actively or passively seeking director, vice president, or C-suite level employment, please feel free to contact Michele Torch at michele.torch@torchgroup.com.