Maximise your chance of being approached for your next role

The market has changed significantly over the last five years. The ‘you seek me’ mindset is the new norm where highly skilled executive, professionals have the expectation that they will be approached by search consultants rather than proactively seeking out opportunities.

With search becoming a key element at all levels of recruitment, it's crucial to position yourself in a way that maximises your chances of being noticed for your next big role. Here’s how you can do that in 2024.

Get online & stay visible

The digital landscape continues to evolve, and so does the way recruitment operates. To be found, you must have a strong online presence.

LinkedIn remains the go-to platform for professionals. Search consultants and research teams spend a significant amount of time on LinkedIn, hunting for unique talent. A quick survey in our office revealed that our consultants spend over 30% of their time sourcing talent on LinkedIn. This figure doubles for our talent engagement specialists and researchers.

Another important platform is SEEK. No longer just a job board, SEEK now offers the SEEK Profile, a tool that allows candidates to showcase their skills and experience even if they aren’t actively looking for a job. This profile increases your visibility to potential employers who may reach out with opportunities that match your background.

In both instances, ensure that your online profiles are up-to-date, fully detailed, and optimized with relevant keywords. The more accessible and visible you are online, the better your chances of being approached.

Be seen & know your industry           

Visibility within your industry is key. It’s not just about being online but also about being active and engaged within your professional community.

To be known, you need to connect with key players in your industry. This includes joining industry associations, participating in professional bodies, and expanding your network through personal connections—be it colleagues, clients, or acquaintances.

Attending industry conferences, forums, seminars, and networking events is another powerful way to increase your visibility. These settings provide opportunities to meet key industry figures and have conversations that could lead to future opportunities. By being seen and known, you raise your profile, making it more likely that you’ll be approached when an opportunity arises.

Be open to conversations

Even if you’re not actively seeking a new role, staying open to conversations can be beneficial. The best talent is always on the radar of recruiters, HR managers, and industry leaders who maintain networks of top professionals.

Engaging in these conversations, even when you’re happy in your current role, can provide you with valuable insights into your market positioning and industry trends. It can also open doors to unexpected opportunities that may be perfect for you in the future. Remember, being open to dialogue keeps you informed and connected, which is critical for career advancement.

Don’t be modest about your achievements 

Your professional achievements are a testament to the value you bring to any organisation, so don’t be afraid to showcase them. Highlighting these on platforms like LinkedIn can significantly increase your chances of being noticed by search consultants.

Your LinkedIn profile is essentially your modern-day CV. Ensure it’s detailed, showcasing not only your responsibilities but also your accomplishments, metrics, and the impact you’ve had in previous roles. The more people who can see this information, the better your chances of being approached for roles that align with your expertise.

Build relationships with mentors & peers

Developing a relationship with a mentor can provide you with valuable guidance and support in your career progression. A mentor takes a vested interest in your personal and professional development and can even become a sponsor for you when opportunities arise.

In addition to mentorship, actively engage with your professional network. Don’t hesitate to seek advice, share knowledge, and offer support in return. Engaging with your network can lead to new opportunities and help you build a reputation as a collaborative and resourceful professional.

Engage & give back

Networking is more than just building connections; it’s about maintaining and nurturing those relationships. Engage with your network regularly—ask for advice, offer support, and participate in discussions. This reciprocal relationship builds trust and ensures that you remain top of mind when opportunities arise.

Showing gratitude and giving back to your network also strengthens these connections. By being open, honest, and receptive to others, you create a positive professional presence that attracts opportunities.

If you're looking for more career advice on how to stand out in a competitive market - reach out to our team of expert consultants here.