Do Senior Executives Really Need CVs?

In today's fast-paced digital world, the humble Curriculum Vitae (CV) can feel like a horse-drawn carriage in a world of self-driving cars. With LinkedIn profiles, personal websites, and professional portfolios taking centre stage, you might wonder if there's still a place for the CV—especially for seasoned executives who've been steering the same corporate ship since day one. But before you send your CV off to the museum, let's explore whether it still holds value.

The Importance of a CV

Ah, the CV—a trusty old friend. For years, it's been the Swiss Army knife of job hunting, a neatly folded document that carries your career history, achievements, and skills, all bundled up and ready to impress. But as we scroll further into the digital age, you might ask, “Do I really need this? Isn’t my LinkedIn enough?”

Well, yes and no. A well-crafted CV is still a powerful asset. Think of it as a first impression in paper form—a summary that doesn’t just say “hello” but also “here’s why you should hire me.” Even with all the dynamic, interactive, and sometimes flashy ways to present your career online, the CV remains a concise and structured way to showcase your journey.

The Case of Senior Executives

Now, let's talk about senior executives—the captains of industry, the seasoned sailors who’ve navigated their careers within the same organization since the days of dial-up internet. For these leaders, a traditional CV can seem as redundant as a compass app on a smartphone—especially when they've risen through the ranks without ever requiring one.

These folks are usually well-known in their field, with a Rolodex (remember those?) packed full of contacts who vouch for their skills. Networking, reputation, and a proven track record are often the keys that unlock new opportunities for them.

And, let’s be honest—if you’re working for a family business, your CV is probably the last thing on your mind. After all, Uncle Bob isn’t going to ask you to send over your credentials before offering you that executive role, right?

But here’s the twist—just because you haven’t needed a CV doesn’t mean you never will. Picture this: I recently had a client who was a brilliant CEO. He was working for a couple of French companies and was moving up the ladder within the same sector. He came to me with an 11-page CV, bless his heart. His experience was extensive, but as any executive search consultant will tell you, no one has time to read a novella. He struggled to condense his CV into a digestible format suitable for an executive search process.

Even for senior executives, a CV can be invaluable in certain situations—think speaking engagements, board appointments, or consultancy gigs. It’s like having a formal passport that highlights your career achievements, designed for audiences who might not already know you.

Why Use a Career Coach? A Shortcut to Success

Let’s face it—job hunting isn’t exactly a walk in the park. It’s more like a marathon where you occasionally trip over hurdles (sometimes known as recruiters). But what if there was a way to find the right job faster, avoid unnecessary rejections, and save money in the process? Enter the career coach.

A seasoned career coach isn’t just someone who tells you to “keep your chin up” after a rejection. They’re like a personal trainer for your career—except instead of squats and deadlifts, they help you craft the perfect CV, sharpen your interview skills, and strategize your job search. With their guidance, you’re not just tossing your CV into the void; you’re aiming it straight at the right opportunities.

Imagine the time and stress you could save by getting expert advice on how to present yourself in the best possible light. Instead of blindly sending out applications and hoping for the best, a career coach can help you tailor your approach, making you a standout candidate from the get-go. And the best part? You’re less likely to waste money on missed opportunities and more likely to land the job that’s just right for you—sooner rather than later.

So, whether you’re a senior executive or just starting out, remember this: a great career is built not just on experience, but on how well you present that experience to the world. And sometimes, a little expert help is just what you need to get there faster.

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