Job Search Strategies for Executives in Transition

The recent recession has expelled a lot of executives out into the ranks of the unemployed to look for their next position. It's a tricky situation to be in. There are fewer jobs available, and at the same time the market for executives is teeming with well-qualified candidates. Very often, executives have been recruited from job to job throughout their entire careers, so many haven't looked for a job in a long time and are uncertain where to start.

Here are some tips for the executive in transition:

* Take time to take stock. What, exactly, do you have to offer another company that is valuable enough for them to offer you a job? What have been some of your past accomplishments and how do these prove what you have to offer your next employer? Is your age a strength or a possible liability? How do you want to spend the rest of your working life? Do you need as much pay as you were receiving on your last job? How many more years do you want to work?

* Take time to conduct some research. Do you want to remain within the industry that you just left or is it time to think of shifting your skills to another field? What industries are growing? Are they stable or are they likely to be downsizing in the near future? What direction is the wind blowing for the industry in which you have been working? How many recruiters are there that specialize in your industry and how can you contact them? Who do you know in the industry that you might be able to network with?

* Deal with your emotions about being laid off. Are you blaming yourself? Are you angry? Do you have a positive relationship with the people you've worked with? If you can afford it, it is often helpful to take at least a couple of weeks off before beginning your search in earnest. If you need to consult a counselor to help you gain some equilibrium at this shaky time, be sure to do so.

* When you are ready to launch a full-scale job-search, be sure to include the following in your planning and preparation:

- Prepare your executive resume. You should consider seeking help from a professional executive resume writer with the expertise to make this document do what you need it to do. You should seek a writer who specializes in executive resume writing as they will know how best to position you to ensure you have competitive advantage in the job market.

- Start networking now. Begin reaching out to every one you know, to ask if they can introduce you to people in their network. Make it clear that you aren't contacting them with the expectation that they know of a job opening. Instead, you are simply looking for referrals and introductions. Don't neglect the possibility of using the Internet to spread your net more widely.

- Get ready for interviews. You may not have done this for some time, so it would be wise to brush up on your techniques and make some preparations. Make sure to research the company ahead of time and be clear about your expectations and requirements(in your own mind) before negotiations begin about your salary and benefit requirements.

Even at the best of times, you should expect an executive-level job search to take some time and effort. There are simply fewer opportunities at the executive levels. Don't get frustrated, keep your attitude positive, and make finding a new job your job. Following these steps will help you to land a great new executive position as quickly and easily as possible.