Your Career isn’t a Generic One Size Fits All

Posted By: Lauryn Franzoni
Filed Under: networking, job search, lauryn franzoni, career management

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Just because you've decided you want to do something more or different with your work, doesn't mean you have to be treated like everyone else. Aren't you tired of "one size fits all" prescriptions that, in fact, don't fit you and were never expected to fit someone who has accomplished what you have to become a senior executive in your organization?

When you decided to invest time, energy and resources in getting a better job, you already knew you were going to have to clear some time on your calendar, sacrifice some personal plans and do some new things — maybe even a little risky. That's how you got to where you are, and it's part of how you will get where you want to go. But that doesn't mean random people have the right to clutter your inbox or waste your time because they think connecting to you will help them. When you need career support to take the next step, don't settle for a generic solution.

Expect Experience. You're an accomplished executive, and you should demand to be treated like one. If you were hiring for a start-up company, you'd look for the most experienced talent in the market — people who have delivered on the tactics you need to succeed. Don't settle for less.
Seek Referrals. Is the organization one that your friends and colleagues know and value? Has it been around longer than just riding the wave of the last economic expansion? Look for the people and services to help you mobilize your efforts in a meaningful way, because they've done so time and again for leaders like you.
Keep Exclusive Company. When everything else is equal, you (and your professional profile) will be known by the connections you make. Random connections imply random action. Strategic connections to your peers will be seen as a powerful resource.
Seek Personal Attention. Your needs are special. Seek resources where you can actually talk to knowledgeable people, tap their expertise, discuss your expectation and receive personal introductions to experts who can assist you.
Be Current. Leaders can't survive if their trusted resources are out of date or narrow in focus. Look for expertise that is focused on your success five years from now, not five years ago. You shouldn't have to be the authority on market trends or best practices in career management. You know how to lead in your field; expect the same vision and expertise from the people you trust to help you move ahead.

You've spent years honing your performance to be the kind of leader successful companies dream of hiring. When you are looking for resources to help you attain your career objectives, look for people who are as experienced and exacting as you.

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Lauryn Franzoni's avatar Lauryn Franzoni
Lauryn Franzoni is vice president and executive director of ExecuNet�s membership, leading the group�s proprietary research initiatives, website and publication content, membership and customer acquisition, executive career management resources, and the building of mutually beneficial communities of interest. By harnessing the power of the collective experience of our members, we assist business leaders in connecting with each other, with new ideas and opportunities, and we provide them the expert insights, education and pragmatic assistance they need to further their careers and help their organizations grow.