In the not-too-distant past, climbing the corporate ladder meant a bigger office, a better compensation package, and a more secure future. But today, executives are being warned: Don't get too comfortable in that corner office, and don't go out and buy that flashy new car or boat you've always wanted - because your job is just as vulnerable as everyone else's. Evidence suggests that as you advance up the corporate ladder, your position may become more precarious!
In recent years, attitudes toward executives and the roles they play within organizations have shifted dramatically. I've seen executives who have worked for the same company for 20 years or more.
They worked their way up the corporate ladder, believing they had proven their worth, only to be fired as if they had been hired as an entry-level employee.
It is my job as a Career Consultant to re-instill the client's confidence, identify his or her strengths, and "re-package" that individual for the current job market.
However, in order to successfully navigate the career transition process and ultimately make your career bulletproof, you must first be informed about what's really going on in the workplace. I see several significant trends affecting executive-level job stability and security, including:
Today's Difficult Employment Trends
Contract or temporary positions are increasingly being offered, even at senior levels. In these cases, the position lasts only as long as the employer's contract with their client requires. This necessitates that job seekers think differently, more like an independent consultant working on assignment rather than a permanent employee. In many business sectors and industries, the "permanent, full-time job" as we know it no longer exists. This trend also places the executive in the position of consistently promoting and marketing himself or herself for the next opportunity - and the one after that!
2nd Job Market Trend:
Companies are still very cautious when it comes to hiring for high-paying, senior management positions. Executives seeking such positions must now "sell themselves" more than ever before. They must demonstrate how they will increase the company's productivity, efficiency, and profitability - or they will most likely be passed over for the position. This means that the job seeker must learn how to present and market himself or herself effectively. Simply having the right job titles or technical skills for the job on one's résumé is no longer sufficient.
Executives are receiving smaller career transition programs from large outplacement firms than ever before, and many displaced professionals are receiving no career transition programs at all. As a result, an increasing number of executives are seeking assistance from smaller, more personal career consulting firms and career support groups.
Bulletproof Your Career Strategies
Although the above-mentioned transition programs provide important career management techniques, let me share the most important activities you should always be doing to overcome the challenges outlined above and bulletproof your career for the future:
-
Maintain the accuracy of all your success documents.
-
Set aside time each week for active networking.
-
Join and assume leadership positions in appropriate organizations.
-
Produce articles or give presentations in your field of expertise.
-
Continue your professional education by earning new credentials.
-
Investigate and be aware of the competition
-
On a regular basis, offer to assist people in your network.
-
Look for new jobs and other opportunities.
-
"How can I contribute more?" you should always ask yourself.
-
Practice networking, interviewing, and negotiating skills.
If you want your career to be truly bulletproof, you'll need to educate yourself on topics like self-marketing, networking, interviewing, and negotiating that you probably thought you'd never have to worry about again. Many management professionals are discovering useful online programs, free audio seminars, local networking groups, and other resources to help them master these skills.
And here's the GOOD NEWS: If you seek out the right support and leverage vital resources like those mentioned above, you may find yourself grateful for the experience of transitioning, eventually finding a career or landing a job that will be a much better "fit" than those you've previously had.
