How to earn an executive position in 5 steps

Taking the next step in your career journey is all about planning and intentional execution. If you want to climb the corporate ladder to your first or a new executive position, here's the best way to do it.

1. Take a professional inventory

You need to know your areas of expertise inside out. Inventory your existing skills to see which ones translate to a higher-value role. When you complete that exercise, set it aside and start noting skills frequently asked for or desired in the job descriptions of your target roles.

Once you have assembled the two lists, you can compare and contrast them to easily see gaps that might benefit from upskilling. This upskilling will make selling yourself to an ideal company much easier as they won't need to train you in every aspect of the role.

2. Find commonalities in hires at target companies

One lesser-utilized way to make yourself appealing is to look at recent hires or legacy team members at companies where you would like to work. Their LinkedIn profiles will showcase job descriptions outlining their responsibilities, skills they have earned including certifications and what people say about them through recommendations. While no one wants you to directly copy other people, learning key skills that make them hirable could serve you well.

You can even show interest and connect with people you want to emulate! But remember, don't be spammy and don't just connect with them if there's an open role! Interact with posts they make that you find smart or compelling. If they're willing, talk to them about their career trajectory. Try to forge a genuine connection and maybe someday it will bear fruit. The worst that can happen is learning something you can apply elsewhere!

3. Think about what you want

It isn't all about what the companies want. Consider your needs and what types of roles and companies would make you happy. Think about things like the salary and benefits you want, the type of work/life balance you're seeking and anything else that would make a difference for you.

4. Ensure your success

You know what isn't a good look? Maintaining application materials that aren't letter-perfect. Before you even think about submitting your resume, check that it's error-free and optimized.

Do you want to make a big splash during your application phase or interview? Prepare proof of efficacy well in advance by assembling your success metrics, stories and other materials that help show hiring managers that you are as amazing as you seem on paper.

Finally, it's crucial that you practice, practice, practice to make yourself unstoppable, especially if you're trying to earn your first executive position. It's rare for someone to hit a home run without attending weekly practice and it's just as uncommon to earn a top position without investing prep time.

5. Choose the right advocate

It can be hard to find a good match by yourself, especially within the competitive executive-level talent market. That's why recruiters are good resources.

The best recruiters are advocates for their talent. If you are open to having one support you, find someone who will:

• Help prepare you for interviews
• Find new companies that you may not have thought about
• Discuss uncomfortable topics on your behalf like salary and benefits
• Make introductions with established connections

Beacon Hill's team has over 20 years of experience helping job seekers of all levels get where they want to go. If you're ready for the next step but are struggling to step forward, consider letting us help you map out the right steps toward your dream role.

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