Too many exceptional leaders are losing opportunities because they're using the same strategy as everyone else: apply online and wait.
The result? Stalled careers and missed opportunities.
"Apply and Hope"
is a Trap
Executives are expected to have a well developed network.
I just read a post written by an executive that has relied heavily on applying online and shared his dismay in a failed career search. He spoke about a difficult job market
including fake roles, too many applicants and had a lot of comments that were in agreement.
What he did not
see:
With under 200 connections and depending on applications instead of networking, his self-description of being a "an innovative leader" contradicted his authority.
When you rely heavily on applications and resumes, here's what happens:
You surrender control to HR systems and applicant tracking software
You
show that you are passive, waiting for someone to notice you
You depend on hope that executives will recognize your value
You avoid the hard work of crafting an innovative positioning strategy
A Better Catalyst for Your Career Future
A mindset shift to reframe your story and actions from an "applicant" to "market leader" is a demonstration of being a leader. Position your value so decision-makers say:
"Yes, I know that person. They have a reputation for driving growth results through strong distribution partnerships."
The Shift That Transforms Your Positioning
There are too may outstanding leaders that are not competing in their job hunt through a leadership networking strategy. Instead, they are applying online just like everyone else. This creates
a real problem---no new job opportunities and no promotions in their future.
Instead of waiting to be chosen, become the
obvious choice. Build your positioning before you need it and create demand for your expertise rather than competing for posted roles by communicating your value proposition.
When you fail to communicate the value of your greatness beyond a resume and application...
You hand over your power and apply through HR
organizations, their applicant tracking systems and broken processes.
You're waiting on with little opportunity to be proactive.
You hope that the executive team will recognize your contributions
And the worst...you're avoiding the preparation needed to get your value story in line for networking conversations and
interviews.
But you can find success by communicating
through positioning your value in a way that resonates with decision-makers, so they say (as an expample of being known for your expertise)...
"Yes, I've heard of them, they have a reputation for attracting strong partnerships!"
Networking: Are you willing to learn a new mindset?
This is the approach by a recent client---she transforming her search from applying online to a networking strategy for:
→ Turning connections into conversations → Converting meetings into opportunities → Navigating opportunities into multiple offers
Her efforts, in just one day, began producing results. After seeing the system work, she feels empowered to keep building positive momentum:
"I have 9 people who accepted my connection from yesterday and I'm in excitement overload—wanting to make a strong impression. Can we talk about next steps?"
