Common Executive Job Search Mistakes to Avoid

A job search at any professional level has the potential to cause a lot of stress, especially it if seems that it just isn’t working out. However, at the executive level, it can be more difficult because so much more effort is required with each application process.

Any executive who is searching for work wants to minimize the seeking process and quickly get the job. However, if you’re in this position and find that you’re not getting callbacks as much as you’d like, you may be making some mistakes along the way. Here are just a few you want to try to avoid…

Using Multiple or Complicated Email Addresses
Yes, this sounds like a "duh" kind of mistake, but believe it or not, many job seekers at every level fail to use the same email address throughout a job search (including on the application, resume, etc.), which absolutely can make it difficult for a recruiter or hiring manager to keep in touch. Keep in mind that digital technology is how most people communicate, so if they can’t reach you by email, they may stop trying to reach you at all if the first email address doesn’t work.

Also, when choosing your professional email address, consider making it simple enough that someone could remember it and actually type it in if necessary. In other words, rather than going with johnjoethomasdavidsonIII@emailaddress.com, you may instead want to try jdavidson@emailaddress.com because it’s easier to read, remember and type.

Failing to Create Bonds with Executive Recruiters
Another mistake that some executive job seekers make is failing to create bonds with executive recruiters. Of course, you don’t want to overwhelm them with how great you are 24/7; however, it’s a good idea to make sure to stay connected with them.

So how do you create a healthy balance? When you first connect with an executive recruiter, it’s good to keep your communication simple and only present your resume and cover letter, not a ton of recommendations, awards, references and more. As you’re asked for more, quickly respond with the goods. And most important, drop a quick hello every now and then to let the recruiter know you’re there.

Nurture Your Resume
While you may be placing greater focus on your interviewing process than your resume, it’s important to nurture it as well. Think about it, your resume offers recruiters and hiring managers a first impression of you. The last thing you want is to put a ton of energy into your interviews then never get called in for any. So before you practice for another interview, be sure to read over your resume, make sure that it is stellar then begin submitting the new and improved version. You will have time for the rest after you receive some callbacks.

A job search can be tough enough even when you’re doing everything right, so don’t make it more challenging by making common mistakes. Take time to look over what you could change them make those adjustments sooner than later. Hopefully, correcting these small errors will make a huge difference in your executive job search.