Five things you should keep as constant priority before applying for your next executive level role

Choosing your next step is a big career decision at any stage of your working life. It can be particularly difficult for those who are already in senior level roles, not only because the higher you climb the scarcer the truly rewarding roles become but also due to the calibre of the competition and the specific demands of executive recruitment.

Whatever your current level, it is wise to take the long view of career progression. Any step you take should be part of a career strategy that looks beyond the immediate attractions of a new job. Where does it fit with your vision of the future, and how does it help in achieving it? Being able to answer these questions will be much easier if you keep yourself in a state of preparedness. With this in mind, we’ve identified five key issues that you should keep as constant priorities, when searching for that next big role.

1. Thinking ahead is essential. Before you begin to search, you should examine your expectations and determine what you are looking for. This may be as simple as salary and benefits, but it is likely to involve a lot more. If you were embarking on a significant new project for your own business or an existing client, you wouldn't dream of starting without a thorough plan. You would measure the risks and benefits, devising a feasible plan to achieve your objective. This involves identifying what you seek to gain and what you might be prepared to invest in gaining it. Applying the same diligence to your career progression is crucial. 
2. Once you reach executive level, it can be easy to forget that your CV remains an important document. The more experience you gather, the more you have to offer, with a CV an excellent way to marshal information in one place. Your cover letter gives you the opportunity to be both direct and discursive in the marketing of yourself, but being able to back this up with a comprehensive career inventory is invaluable. Not only does it make cross-referencing simple but also it presents an excellent opportunity to tell your story. Your CV should encapsulate not only what you have done but also what you are aiming for, your priorities, your reasons for wanting to move on, and your long-term vision. Don't wait until the last minute to update this vital document but keep it under constant review.
3. While the traditional elements of any application remain central to the process, don't neglect the power of social media. The advisability of being circumspect in your personal and professional postings on platforms such as Facebook and Twitter goes without saying; however, outspokenness can be a virtue as long as it is considered and positive. Also, pay attention to the more professionally orientated platforms; for example, it is practically a reflex action for any prospective employer to reach for LinkedIn to research a prospective new employee, especially at senior level. You should keep your profile up to date, almost as a refined version of your CV.
4. Be visible. Looking for the right position can be difficult, so make it easier by letting it be known that you are available for new challenges. Register with recruitment agencies that specialise in your sector and you level of experience, as they will be in regular contact with industry leaders. The more you can get your name circulated, the better.
5. Invest in yourself. It may not seem like a priority and there is no need for a full makeover but you might be surprised by the boost it can give to your confidence to update your appearance and your wardrobe: a new look for a new chapter. It can be infectious, helping you to make a great first impression in face-to-face meetings.

 
Finding your next role and pursuing it are not easy tasks, especially if your executive level means you are a little out of practice. Cento Recruitment has years of experience in helping candidates at executive level to identify the best opportunities, assemble powerful applications, and prepare to give the best possible performance in interviews. Call us on 01509 615290 and start work on your future today.