This is a pretty good article from FM-Magazine on seeking a new opportunity while you are gainfully employed. While it is not always easy to do, executing good passive strategies is certainly the most beneficial approach for any CFO candidate.
You know this. I know you know this. It is both sad and true.
Oftentimes, there is a stigma and a bias
against the unemployed.
Nothing has really changed – except location. All your skills, all your contributions, all your accomplishments, and your stellar career climb – you still own them. The difference, and a big one, is where you are standing … outside the company door rather than inside your office. Because you have the best positioning and the most power as a passive candidate, it behooves every executive to keep in mind Matt Bud’s (Financial Executives Networking Group) daily mantra: You are only ever between searches. Unless, of course, you are getting ready to retire.
With the above in mind, I want to add my 2 cents to the article …
Yes, in this age of social media, a Linkedin profile is the expectation. But a placeholder won’t suffice. Not if you really want to compete against, and more importantly, stand out from, your competition. It requires a robust, compelling, and value-oriented profile that leverages the Linkedin algorithm and creates interest.
If your profile is not complete (according to Linkedin’s definition), you will not come up at the top of recruiter searches. Your goal is compelling and complete … and that includes giving and getting recommendations as well as joining groups.
Networking
It’s a must. Social media is great, but the real value of social media for Chief Financial Officers and other executives is building visibility among a targeted audience. Job search – passive and active – requires face-to-face networking.
And yes, the very best time to build your network is while you are gainfully employed and between searches.
Let me know if I can help you structure and execute your passive job search plan!
Copyright CFO-Coach 2018
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Cindy Kraft is the CFO-Coach and America’s leading Career & Personal Brand Strategist for Corporate Finance Executives helping clients understand their marketability, articulate their value, and position themselves as the clear and compelling choice. She is a Certified Reach Personal Brand Strategist, Certified Reach Online Identity Strategist, Certified Career Management Coach, Certified Professional Resume Writer, and Job & Career Transition Coach. Cindy can be reached via email Cindy@CFO-Coach.com, by phone 813-727-3037, or through her website at www.CFO-Coach.com.