For those looking to land the corner office, Robert Half Management Resources offers five questions executive candidates should address before beginning their search.

1. WANT TO LAND THE
CORNER OFFICE?
5 Questions to Ask
Before Embarking on
an Executive Job Search
© 2014 Robert Half Management Resources. An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.

2. 1. How visible are you?
Establish yourself as an expert. Write articles for
trade publications and blogs, take a leadership
post with a professional association or nonprofit,
and participate in online discussions, webinars
and podcasts in your field. All of these options will
get you noticed by people who can influence your
career success.
© 2014 Robert Half Management Resources. An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.

3. 2. How solid is your
network?
The strength of your network could make or break
your search, since most leadership hires result
from referrals and connections, not postings or
applications. Make sure you build your circle to
include people at all levels across many fields –
not just your industry peers. Add recruiters if they
are not already part of your network.
© 2014 Robert Half Management Resources. An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.

4. 3. What are your
geographic boundaries?
You’ll have more options if you are open to
relocation. Before you begin your search,
determine how willing you are to move and for
what type of opportunity.
© 2014 Robert Half Management Resources. An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.

5. 4. What’s your leadership
and communication style?
Firms expect accounting and finance leaders to
be more involved with other functions, like
operations and human resources. Firms also rely
on executives to be visible with internal and
external audiences, making the need for
exceptional communication skills paramount. Be
prepared to discuss your track record in
collaborating with other teams, and show your
ability to write, speak and present to various
audiences.
© 2014 Robert Half Management Resources. An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.

6. 5. What’s your timeline?
Leadership roles take longer to fill, so prepare for
a longer process. While you may be the right
technical fit for many positions, know that
organizations place a premium on cultural fit. If
you have recently left a full-time role, consider
consulting work to maintain your network, skills
and income.
© 2014 Robert Half Management Resources. An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.

7. WANT TO LAND THE
CORNER OFFICE?
5 Questions to Ask
Before Embarking on
an Executive Job Search
roberthalfmr.com
© 2014 Robert Half Management Resources. An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.