NETWORKING AS A SENIOR EXECUTIVE

Networking as a senior executive can be tough, but there are ways to make it easier and more effective. Here’s how based on my experience having placed senior leaders into the C-Suite and an informative article on the topic from Harvard Business Review (HBR article). 

1. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Many senior execs hesitate to ask for help because they don’t want to seem weak. Start by reaching out to people you know well and who have been through similar situations. Practicing these conversations can build your confidence and make it easier to approach more challenging contacts later.  
   

2. Keep It Honest: While it’s natural to want to keep your job search private, being overly secretive can limit your opportunities. Be honest and direct when reaching out to your network. People often appreciate honesty and are more willing to help than you might think. 
   

3. Be Patient: Finding the right role takes time, often longer than expected. It could take anywhere from three to twelve months, so prepare for the long haul. Do your research and engage in exploratory conversations to understand the market and what you’re looking for. 
   

4. Put in the Effort: Networking requires effort that you can’t delegate. Be methodical and organized by categorizing your contacts into groups: those who provide information, those who can open doors, and decision-makers. Start with a list of all your past professional contacts and expand from there using referrals. 
   

5. Get to the Point: Don’t waste time on small talk or dwelling on past issues. Focus on your future goals and what you need now. Be brief and clear about why you’re reaching out and what you hope to achieve, respecting the time of your contacts  
   

6. Tailor Your Message: Avoid using a one-size-fits-all pitch. Customize your message to align with the specific interests and needs of each contact. Show genuine interest in their business and how you can contribute, making the conversation more meaningful and effective  

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How can executive recruiters compliment your networking? Here are a few strategies that may help: 

• Network with both large and specialized (boutique) recruiting firms as their network of opportunities may overlap less. Seek to identify and connect with the various specialists or practice leaders as they can be internal ambassadors for you within each firm.
  

• Master the art of respectful persistence. Recognize that clients pay the recruiting firm to find candidates, not the other way around. Ask the recruiter how often one should check in on the market.  
  

• Leverage trusted recruiters for insights on compensation and key contracts terms in offer letters. For example, there can be a wide range of outcomes for change of control protection and severance for CFO roles at private companies.