Job searches at upper executive level happen as much, or more often, by choice than by buyout, mergers, or as a result of downsizing. Senior executives thrive on challenges and want to love their work. When the challenge fades or the love turns tepid, it may be time to move on to a more fulfilling position. Even when the hunt for a new post is necessitated by a job cut, experts say this should be a positive experience, a time to campaign for the job you've always wanted. We tell our clients this is the opportunity to look at where they want to go with the rest of their career and life.
Experts say executives, on average, change jobs every four years.
Principal engineer Walter Kelt has changed his job five times in the last 13 years. Although some of those job shifts were due to the vicissitudes of working as a consultant, he says he periodically evaluates where he is and where he wants to be. After a short job search of only three weeks, he was hired at Bay Networks, Inc. of Billerica this past December. I targeted companies who would help me fulfill those goals. Kelt says it is also important to evaluate overall goals, including whether the added responsibility of a senior management position and the added hours fit your personal philosophy.