Think like an ex-CEO

Want to re-enter the workforce? Take a page out of an ex-CEO's book. In the age of demanding shareholders, the job of a CEO is far from secure. After just a few bad quarters, a CEO may find his/her job on the line. Many choose to "pursue other interests", "consult" or "retire" only to find themselves trying to reinvent themselves for the next work challenge. This year an average of 6 CEOs will leave their jobs every day, according to the outplacement firm, Challenger & Gray. The number represents a record number of turnover in the CEO ranks.

Onrampers and ex-CEOs face many of the same challenges. The terms reinvention and repackaging may have slightly negative connotations but successful onrampers and ex-CEOs do both well. They highlight the best parts of their work or volunteer experience and learn from the tough times. They refine their job search and refocus their energy in high-yield areas.

According to an article in the Wall Street Journal on September 10, 2007, many ex-CEOs seek work that is personally fulfilling, rather than take the next big job. They find that patience is necessary to find the right job (are you listening, onrampers?) Some choose to go back to school to enhance their skills while others form informal support groups with other (albeit high-level) job seekers. Ex-CEOs know how to fully develop and utilize their networks.

Unlike the previous generation, many experienced workers (CEO's included) choose to work longer, delay final retirement and pursue mulitiple careers. Onrampers can benefit from this trend of "career reinvention". By using their networks, reflecting on how they define meaningful work and practicing patience onrampers can employ the same job search techniques as an ex-CEO.

In your job search, how do you think like a CEO?