This past week I produced a seminar for senior executives - many of whom are in career transition - called "Get Back in the Game". My colleague Linda Holroyd, CEO of FountainBlue, and I were concerned about the increasing number of executives we were meeting who were in an extended job search or in roles they did not find satisfying but reluctant to plan their exit strategy. The ongoing recession and very tough executive job market - there are more than 6 candidates for every job - were creating a sense of paralysis, fatigue and fear. People were giving up - just at the time when they should be redoubling their efforts to stand out from the crowd and achieve their goals.
Thus - "Get Back in the Game" was launched. There are many parallels to sports competition and career management in these challenging times. It's very easy to get discouraged; you can't envision reaching your goal, crossing the finish line, experiencing victory. You question your ability to 'go the distance' and whether your teammates and supporters share your goals. Your energy level sags and you wonder where much-needed inspiration will come from.
One thing is certain; you can't give up. How many times have you seen professional athletes, Olympic competitors and even the kids in your local soccer league come within seconds of defeat - only to somehow find the inspiration, discipline and singular focus on their goal to win. There are many things executives can do now to proactively manage their careers; here are our three key steps to getting back in the game:
(1) be absolutely clear on your goals - the promotion you are seeking, the job targets you have set or whatever your next move is. In this crowded job market having clarity on your goals and reflecting that in everything you do and say is the key to differentiation
(2) have a plan - sounds simple and obvious but without a plan and structure to your efforts you can be easily distracted and worn down. Whenever I compete in an Ironman race my ultimate goal is to finish....but my plan from hour to hour changes from getting to the next aid station, running to the next mile marker...whatever it takes to manage myself and my performance through a long day
(3) get support - you need to rely on others to provide input, guidance and inspiration during an extended job search. Get outside of yourself - find out how you can support others, get involved in your community, and be grateful for what you have.
Finally, have perspective and look at this time in the overall picture of your career. All athletes experience a slump on occasion; and while it feels really lousy and frustrating while you are in it, you will eventually come out the other side stronger, more confident and ready to get back in the game!
