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After company sale, operations exec finds himself job seeking

KEEPING NETWORK ACTIVE, ASSESSING JOB, PROFESSIONAL GOALS KEY

Q. I find myself looking for a new job after 15 years of employment with the same company. My position was eliminated due to the fact that we were acquired six months ago by an out of state company. I have been in operations at the executive management level for the past 10 years and feel qualified to take on a chief operating officer or general manager role. I’m fortunate to have received a generous severance package so I can take my time. Do you have a checklist on the do’s and don’t of searching for a new job?

A. First let me say that searching for a job has changed a lot in the last 15 years, but what hasn’t changed is the art of networking. Networking is bigger than ever, and the sooner you get started the better. What is networking? The definition according to dictionary.com is “a supporting system of sharing information and services among individuals and groups having a common interest.”

There are so many great networking sites, stick with the professional ones such as LindedIn and Plaxo just to name a few. Google and Yahoo have multiple groups that you can join, but make sure that you connect with groups and associations that are applicable to your background. Join one or two, but beware of your personal data, this information becomes public to the world and potential employers – keep it professional. Face-to-face meetings are by far the best forms of networking, make it personal.

Other ideas: I suggest partnering with an experienced executive search consultant who has established relationships with companies in your area, one who is willing to work with you one on one to assess your professional skills/experience to establish your career goals and objectives.

This person should be professional and knowledgeable about a wide variety of businesses, industries and disciplines. They should have previous experience working with executives who are in transition or seeking new opportunities for career advancement. They should provide you with interviewing techniques, compensation negotiation assistance and transition coaching and present a range of opportunities that are well suited to your background and experience.

Since you have not been in job-search mode for awhile, it’s time for a career tune-up. To win at this game you must be a good consumer and know your requirements before you buy. Please take the time to answer the following questions:

Why are you seeking a new position? Are you looking to make a lateral move or career advancement? Are you looking to change industries? Are you looking to change disciplines? Do you prefer formal or informal environments? Best cultural fit? Do you prefer start-ups or large, well established companies? Is your preference public or privately held companies? What type of leadership do you prefer? What is your commute tolerance, and are you willing to travel? Are you willing to relocate? What are your compensation requirements, and are they realistic for the area?

If you have 10 to 20 years of experience your resume is probably more than a few pages long. I’m not a big fan of long resumes. Be aware that you have less than 10 seconds to attract the reader so it is important to hook them with an interesting summary, and be sure to list all of your accomplishments with your professional experience.

Your resume is a marketing piece, your calling card and your opportunity to make a great impression or not. What we’re talking about here is career management. Each and every person is responsible for managing their own careers.

We’re like cars, and we need regular tune-ups to operate at peak performance. Always be looking for ways to improve your skills and abilities. One should never stop networking even if you’re happily employed. Once you’ve established your network, connect with them once or twice a year by e-mail, phone or in-person to sustain the relationship. I guarantee the time and energy you extend will be a strong return on your investment.

Good luck!

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Jennifer Laxton is a senior partner with Executive Search Associates in Santa Rosa, www.esa.com. ESA is an executive search and consulting company. You can reach her at 707-525-1010 ext. 101 or jklaxton

@esa.com. If you have questions with regards to your situation, send an e-mail to askjen@esa.com.