Question 1

How do I use a headhunter for my job search as an executive?

Accepted Answer

Headhunters (executive search) work on behalf of the company, not for you — that is the crucial difference. They earn their commission when they place the right candidate. LinkedIn Economic Graph: 70–80% of senior positions are not publicly advertised — headhunters are the access channel. How to become attractive to headhunters: public visibility (LinkedIn, industry publications, conferences), clear positioning as an expert in a field, a network that speaks about you (NBER Q022: referrals also apply to headhunters). What to keep in mind when a headhunter contacts you: you are not obligated to accept. Your data is stored in their database (GDPR right of access Q008). Reference checks are conducted at the end of the process — not at the beginning.

Question 2

How does an executive application differ from a standard one?

Accepted Answer

Executive applications (VP, Director, C-Level) work differently: 80% via network and headhunters, rarely via job portals. The CV focuses on company impact and P&L responsibility, not on operational details. An executive summary (3–5 lines at the top of the CV) is mandatory. Interview partners are often board members or CEOs — preparation must go deeper. Processes take 3–6 months instead of 4–6 weeks.

Question 3

How does an executive application differ from a standard one?

Accepted Answer

Fundamentally. LinkedIn Economic Graph: executive roles (VP, Director, C-Level) are filled 70–80% via network and headhunters, not via job portals. The CV focuses on company impact and P&L responsibility, not on operational details. An executive summary (3–5 lines at the top) is mandatory. Interview partners are board members, CEOs, external advisors — preparation must go deeper. Destatis and Cedefop: executives are the group least affected by the skills shortage — the market is tighter and more selective. WEF: leadership competency combined with digital competency and change management is most strongly in demand. Processes take 3–6 months instead of 4–6 weeks.

Executive Applications

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Executive Applications

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