If you find yourself in transition, the process of looking for a new executive role can feel daunting. The truth is, a successful search requires structure, visibility, and discipline. Here’s the exact roadmap you should follow if you’re starting your job search today:
- Perfect your CV.
Make sure your CV is clear, impactful, and polished. Ask HR professionals and recruiters to review it. Their feedback will help you get as close to a 10/10 as possible. - Maximise your LinkedIn visibility.
Create a banner that highlights the disciplines you’ve worked in, the job titles you’re targeting, and the brands you’ve represented. This makes your profile instantly recognisable and relevant. - Put a structured activity plan in place.
- Set a target for the number of daily role applications.
- Commit to daily reach-outs to HR contacts and decision-makers at your target companies.
- Identify a set number of industry events to attend each month.
- Connect with a specific number of recruiters each day.
This structure ensures your search is proactive rather than reactive.
- Leverage your network.
Reach out to past colleagues and bosses. Around 20% of jobs at this level are secured through referrals, so don’t underestimate the power of your connections. - Join and contribute to industry communities.
Many forums, WhatsApp groups, and professional associations are free to join. By adding value: through speaking, mentoring, or contributing to discussions, you can boost your visibility and credibility. - Activate “Open to Work.”
It’s a simple but powerful way to signal your availability to the market. - Publish a strong LinkedIn post.
If you’re currently out of work, write a thoughtful post that explains your situation and invites support. When done well, it can generate visibility, engagement, and introductions. - Invest in upskilling.
Use this time to sharpen your skills through online learning. It not only enhances your expertise but also gives you focus and balance during the search process. - Optimise for LinkedIn search.
LinkedIn ranks profiles by relevance to job titles and keywords. Ask a recruiter or peer to run searches for your target roles to see where you appear. Refine your profile until you show up within the first 10 pages of results. - Be patient, persistent, and organised.
Don’t expect immediate results. Many applications or first messages will go unanswered. Success comes from following up, staying consistent, and keeping disciplined over time.
Your job search is a project, treat it with the same structure, visibility, and persistence you bring to running a business. That’s how you’ll land the right next move.
💬 If you’d like guidance or a CV review, contact Lisa Weston today, she can help you make your search as effective as possible.
