If you are an executive level employee looking for a new job opportunity, where do you turn? Nowadays, we are socialized to believe that the typical job search is reactive and relies exclusively on networking and job boards to identify opportunities. But, the results are not promising. Why? For a few different reasons.

First, if you are an executive, you have a very high pay grade and a very specific skill set, right? Well, given the very explicit background that is required, companies know that opening the floodgates to applicants through job boards is just a waste of their time. Executive positions are NOT for the masses, they are for a select few. Without these positions advertised publicly, we are then left to think that we must network. But again, the results are not promising. The problem with networking: no one knows you better than you know you. 

Don Garrett, the CEO of Resume Not Required, states: “Perhaps the most troubling trend among job seekers that I have identified in my 15 years in the human capital industry is people’s willingness to allow others to make critical decisions about their careers for them.” Don’t let others make decisions for you. At an executive level, “It is your turn now. You get to DECIDE what you want to do, where you want to do it, and how. You’ve earned that right. The only way that can happen, however, is for you to know who you are.” 

While it may seem unconventional, it is entirely logical to assume that proven executives ought to be able to choose where it is they takes their experiences, rather than allowing others to decide for them. Nobody has followed them around in their career, and nobody, but them, knows what they are truly capable of. 

“This concept resonates strongly with the executives I’ve spoken with over the years; yet, very few ever actually take the time to go through the gut check to figure out who they are and what they want to do with their experiences (a.k.a. their definition of success).” Without knowing what your own personal definition of success is, how can you possibly find the RIGHT job? 

So, for all you executive job seekers out there, its time for a “gut check.” Know who you are. Understand how you create value in the world and insure that the people that need such value are aware of it. CHOSE your next job. Why not? You’ve made it this far… you’ve earned it!