The following is an excerpt from BlueSteps' webinar Navigating the Executive Search Process. If you are a BlueSteps member, access your full recording here. If you are interested in becoming a BlueSteps to access our webinar archive, along with other career management solutions, learn more here.

The following is an excerpt from BlueSteps' webinar Navigating the Executive Search Process. If you are a BlueSteps member, access your full recording here. If you are interested in becoming a BlueSteps to access our webinar archive, along with other career management solutions, learn more here.

Kathy Simmons, Director, BlueSteps Executive Career Services:  John, can you talk a little bit about how executive search fits into a candidate's overall executive career strategy?

As trusted advisors to organizations worldwide across industries, AESC Members help attract top executive talent, advise boards and develop internal talent for leadership roles. Thus, they are in a unique position to gauge the pulse of the global business climate. 

AESC’s Global Executive Talent Outlook 2019 outlines business intelligence for C-Suite leaders related to talent trends and new opportunities in the market. AESC Member consultants share input on top organizational challenges and opportunities business leaders are facing and forecast industry, functional and geographic market trends. 

I’ve been thinking a lot recently about the importance of three things: a positive mental attitude, a willingness to embrace change and the need to take a balanced, medium- or long-term view of the world around us.

There’s been so much going on out there – and negative news has been easy to find.

Sometimes it’s worth taking the time to look below the surface, then step back and take in the broader picture. And I do like to put a positive spin on things!

Let’s talk about Brexit

Making connections within the executive search community can dramatically increase your professional options and skyrocket your career trajectory. But understanding the intricacies of executive networking can be a stumbling block for many executives.

If connecting with recruiters is your New Year’s Resolution, here are our top tips on how to put your best foot forward to make valuable, long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationships.

1. Build Your Network Before You Need It

I'm not sure if I'm a typical executive recruiter in saying this but I receive thousands of unsolicited resumes. Thousands. What does that mean for you? How can you stand out?

Retained executive recruiters work for companies to help find great talent for senior roles. At any given time, I am unlikely to be working on the exact role that you are looking for.

Given those realities, what part should executive recruiters play in your search for your next career chapter? Here's how to think about it:

First of all, consider a relationship with a recruiter as one that should play out over the course of your career, not just when you are in transition. Secondly, know that direct networking is often the most productive route in looking for a job.