Role Reversal

You can learn a lot about a person simply by how he/she/they treats others. The way we treat one another is a choice. I am very conscious of the fact that, as a father, I am setting an example of proper behavior and respect for others - for my children. I believe every person, regardless of occupation or job title, should be treated with dignity, and deserves to be heard.

Recently, we’ve seen many executives and high level professionals relieved of their duties; some for good reason, while others were a casualty of the business climate. As these individuals seek out new career options, they often find the adjustment from controlling their environment - to one of uncertainty - to be challenging. Moving from a position of control to a space with limited control is a role reversal, and it’s not an easy change to absorb. 

The old adage, ‘what have you done for me lately’ seems to apply.

One of the first things executive job seekers discover is regardless of how impressive one’s work history is, it is tremendously difficult to distinguish oneself in a market saturated with talent. Past successes diminish in meaning when you are seeking career opportunities outside your most recent organization. Your success never goes away, and should be celebrated. However, the perception of your success is often different from an outside point of view. The realization that your are not as good, not as smart, not as talented as you thought you were is a real awakening.

Another realization comes fast…you are never paid your value.

You are always paid the value of the position at a given time in a given market. Options that provide the desired compensation and the opportunity to influence may be scarce. For seasoned professionals, those who have had success, this may be reality hitting hard.

As a recruiter, I focus on skill sets and seek out opportunities for transference of skill. Sadly, many companies think very cookie-cutter. Hiring people who have worked for the direct competition often yields short term success. There is a familiarity with the industry and with the specific job-related functions. It’s also likely relationships have been fostered.

While this approach to talent acquisition may keep early training costs down, long term development can suffer.

Hiring people with the same background experience generates thinking from one place. Bringing people together with different backgrounds and similar skill sets creates an environment of innovation and collaboration. It can also open the door to new and expanded relationships which can lead to new opportunities. Recognizing there is a balance, seasoned professionals can make an impact. Here’s how:

• For starters, be humble. Appreciate the time and attention provided to you, regardless of where it comes from.
• Be respectful.
• Develop empathy; your experience is similar to what millions of others have experienced.
• Most importantly, don’t forget the challenge of navigating in this employment climate.

The tides will turn, and the rate of unemployment will go down, but the process of hunting for a new job should never be forgotten. The job search experience provides valuable insight and a frame of reference that will make you a better leader.