How do I conduct an executive job search?

It’s not uncommon for executives to feel stuck when facing a job search, pivot, or reinvention. After all, most people don’t switch roles frequently, and each time can feel like navigating a new landscape. But the truth is, the skills leaders use to drive business success every day are the very skills that can simplify and energize a career transition.

A job search isn’t that different from launching a new product or entering a new market. By thinking of your job search in familiar business terms, you can leverage your strategic abilities and feel more confident at each step. Here’s how to translate each component of the process into the language of business - a language you already know well.

1. Job Change = New Market Strategy + Innovation Project

A career pivot or reinvention is akin to expanding into a new market or launching a groundbreaking initiative. Just like any market strategy, this process requires research, a clear value proposition, and a strategy for entering and gaining traction in new territory. Treat it as an opportunity for innovation, where you’re both the product and the brand.

2. Informational Interviewing = Market Research

Talking to people in your target industry or role is essential. But rather than feeling like a novice, approach informational interviews as market research. You’re gathering insights about the trends, challenges, and opportunities in your new space - data that will help you position yourself strategically when the time is right.

3. Resume = Product Collateral

Think of your resume as a high-level product brochure, highlighting your unique capabilities, past successes, and potential value to a new employer. Like any product collateral, it should be concise, visually engaging, and showcase the most compelling features of “Brand You.”

4. Job Search Approach = Go-to-Market Plan

Just as a product launch needs a well-thought-out go-to-market strategy, your job search benefits from a structured plan. Identify your goals, audience, and key milestones, mapping out the steps to make your skills visible to potential employers. A clear strategy keeps you focused and reduces overwhelm.

5. Networking = Lead Segmentation & Nurturing

In business, leads are the lifeblood of new opportunities. The same goes for networking. View each contact as a lead you can nurture and qualify, building relationships that will support your long-term career goals. Networking is less about quantity and more about building quality, high-trust connections that can open doors.

6. Job Search Organization = CRM

A job search requires staying organized, so treat it like customer relationship management. Track applications, follow-ups, and connections systematically to avoid missing opportunities and to ensure timely, relevant communication. A simple spreadsheet or CRM tool can make all the difference.

7. Phone Screen = Prospect / Lead Gen Call

The initial phone screen is much like a first conversation with a prospect in business development. It’s your chance to showcase enough value to move on to a deeper conversation. Keep it focused, share your core strengths, and tailor your message to meet the hiring manager’s needs.

8. Interview Prep = Client Needs Assessment Review

Preparing for an interview is no different from gearing up for a critical client pitch. Study the company’s challenges, goals, and culture, and think about how your experience and expertise align with their specific needs. This targeted approach demonstrates that you’ve done your homework and are ready to deliver value.

9. Interview = Deep Dive & Client Demo

The interview itself is like a client demo, where you’re diving deeper into their challenges and demonstrating how you can address them. Bring real examples of your past achievements and be prepared to discuss how you’d approach specific issues they’re facing.

10. Negotiation & Offer = Term Sheet

When the conversation turns to compensation and offer terms, it’s time to think in terms of a term sheet. Approach this phase with the same strategic, collaborative mindset you’d bring to negotiating a business deal. Be clear on your non-negotiables, know the market value, and seek a win-win outcome.

11. References = Client Case Studies / References

References in a job search function like customer testimonials in business: they validate your credibility and the results you can achieve. Just as a client testimonial provides specific examples of value, your references should be able to speak to your strengths and achievements in a way that resonates with potential employers.

The Takeaway: You Already Know What to Do!

Reframing your job search in business terms taps into your natural strengths and experience, making the process more familiar and empowering. By treating each step as you would a high-stakes business project, you’ll bring the same confidence and strategic clarity that have driven your success so far.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by a career change, remember: you’ve been preparing for this all along.