Whether you’re an experienced leader or someone eager to climb the corporate ladder, finding a new job in a leadership role is a journey. It requires the right mix of introspection, strategy, and action. This guide will walk you through the steps to help you land that coveted leadership role.

1. Knowing when the time is right to move on

It’s essential to recognise when it’s time to move on from your current position. Here are some signs:

• You’ve outgrown your current role.
• There’s limited room for growth or new challenges.
• You feel undervalued or unsatisfied with your work environment.

Trust your instincts. If you consistently feel like it’s time for a change, it likely is.

2. Searching for a new job in leadership

There are various platforms to find a new job in leadership:

• Job boards: Sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Reed.co.uk often have a plethora of leadership roles.
• Networking: Join professional groups and associations related to your industry.
• Recruitment agencies: Many specialise in senior roles and leadership positions.

3. Preparing for the job search

Before diving in, take these preparatory steps:

• Update your CV: Highlight achievements, leadership roles, and significant projects.
• LinkedIn: Ensure your profile is updated, professional, and mirrors your CV.
• Research: Understand the current market, industry trends, and the skills in demand.

4. Choosing the right companies to apply for

Not all companies will align with your values or career goals. Research each potential employer by:

• Reviewing their website and mission statement.
• Checking employee reviews on platforms like Glassdoor.
• Understanding the company culture and growth potential.

5. How to best prepare for an interview

Once you’ve landed an interview, preparation is key:

• Research the company: Know its history, challenges, competitors, and up-to-date news.
• Practice common leadership interview questions: This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly.
• Plan your outfit: Dressing professionally makes a positive first impression.

6. How to stand out for the job

Standing out is more than just having the required skills:

• Show passion: Be enthusiastic about the role and the company.
• Showcase achievements: Quantify results whenever possible.
• Ask thoughtful questions: This demonstrates your genuine interest and thorough preparation.

7. Knowing if a company is the right fit for you

Securing a job offer is exciting, but it’s equally essential to ensure the company is a good fit:

• Company culture: Does the environment align with your values?
• Growth opportunities: Will there be room for professional advancement?
• Work-life balance: Does the company promote a healthy balance or expect constant overtime?

Remember, an interview is as much about them getting to know you as it is about you getting to know them.

Conclusion

Finding a new leadership role requires time, patience, and strategy. By knowing when it’s time to move on, searching in the right places, preparing thoroughly, and ensuring a company aligns with your goals, you can find a job that not only matches your skills but also brings joy and satisfaction. Happy job hunting!

OUR FOCUS ON LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIPS

At re:find we have been in Executive Search for over 20 years. We believe that recruitment is not a one-off transaction but rather a long-term partnership. We aim to build long-term relationships with our clients, providing ongoing support and advice to help them find and retain the best talent for their organisation.

In addition, as a business, we understand that every organisation is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to recruitment. That’s why we offer bespoke recruitment solutions that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you need help with a single hire or a full recruitment campaign, we can help.

We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality service. As part of this, we ensure that we take the time to understand your organisation’s culture and values, as well as the specific skills and experience needed for each role.

For more information on our executive search practice and our CCS framework please get in touch with our Managing Director, James Cumming.