There’s an undeniable mixed blessing in doing contract-based work:
The bad news is that just about every contract has an end date. So you know you need to find another contract and revenue source by then to avoid a gap in revenue/income.
The good news is that you know from the start exactly what that end date is, so you can start planning well in advance to ensure that the next contract is already lined up before the first one ends.
At least there’s no surprise.
But what about when you’re a corporate employee—especially as a leader or executive?
Regular employment doesn’t come with a pre-set end date. You never know when layoffs might strike, regardless of how loyal, successful, and effective you’ve been.
Just look in the most recent edition of the Philadelphia Business Journal (ironically featuring the annual “Best Places to Work” list). It says:
- Wells Fargo is closing two more regional branches (p.6), AND
- Radian Group is laying off about 70 employees (over 15%) at its HQ, including a member of the C-Suite, (also p.6) AND
- Spark Therapeutics is also preparing for layoffs (p.8).
The writing is on the wall for hundreds of employees—apparently from entry level up to senior executives—in these organizations. Some already know their positions will be affected; others don’t, but now are probably wondering.
Much like in Aesop's fable about the Ant and the Grasshopper, you have a choice to make: Be like the grasshopper, waiting until winter comes and the layoff hits, and then scramble to make a plan; or be like the ant, preparing well in advance so you’re in control of your situation and ready for winter, if and when it arrives.
Maybe you already are in this transitional state through no fault of your own, looking for the next role, whether or not you saw it coming.
Or maybe your current job seems stable, but it’s time to look for something new, exciting, challenging, and different simply because you want to explore options, rather than waiting until you need to.
To help ensure that you’re in the strongest position possible, here are a few tips to consider:
- Update your LinkedIn profile: Keep it current with your latest achievements and make sure it reflects the roles you’re targeting.
- Talk to colleagues in other organizations: See if they think it’s a good place to work and if there are any openings that match your skills and aspirations.
- Work on your 30-second elevator pitch: Clearly communicate your unique value proposition, not just your role or daily tasks.
- Reach out to relevant people on LinkedIn: Initiate, strengthen or rekindle relationships that could be valuable resources in your job search.
- Think about the stories you might tell in an interview: Prepare examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and potential.
- Get crystal-clear on your goals: How can you negotiate for the ideal role and package if you don’t even know what you truly need and/or want?
If you’re reading this and getting a knot in your stomach, feeling overwhelmed by the thought of where to even start, you’re not alone. It’s easy to feel paralyzed when the stakes are this high.
But the simple fact is that whether you’re in the middle of an unexpected job search or just want to make sure you’re never caught off guard, now is the time to take action.
Imagine the confidence you’ll feel knowing that you’re prepared for whatever comes next.
That’s exactly what my Quantum Leap: Executive Transition Coaching program prepares you for. It’s your roadmap to not just surviving but thriving in your career.
This is your chance to take control of your future, to write your own story instead of letting circumstances dictate it.
Quantum Leap is exclusively designed to be a personalized, 90-day, results-oriented program for an intimate group of leaders looking to work together with me to get results fast.
Did I mention the group is intimately small? As in single digits. Once the group is full, the door is closed.
And if you join the Quantum Leap program today, you’ll also receive exclusive access to a bonus one-on-one strategy session with me, where we’ll tailor the program to your unique needs.
Plus, as soon as you start your new role, for whatever remains of your 90 days, you’ll take me with you as your Executive Transition Coach into your new job to help you:
- Create your first 90-day plan for the new role
- Navigate the new workplace culture (and office politics)
- Establish your brand and reputation
- Build rapport with your new team
And more!
Just reply to this email and let me know if you’re curious to learn more about the Quantum Leap program.
Don’t let this chance slip away—your future self will thank you.
In addition to this program, here are two more resources that will be helpful to everyone:
- Mastering the Three Cs of Executive Presence: In a recent Q&A interview I did with Planned Giving magazine, I discuss how to “Command the room, Connect with the audience, and Close the deal.” Read the full interview here.
- The Empowered Podcast’s 300th Episode: I had the pleasure of joining Kari Schneider to talk about what it means to inspire people as a leader. You can watch an excerpt here or listen to the full episode on Spotify or iTunes.
Because it’s never too soon to be prepared!
Here are a few more inspiring past episodes of the Speaking to Influence podcast you may have missed:
- Christine Proffitt, Executive Vice President of Sales at Integrity Staffing Solutions, Inc.: Be Prepared
- Ellen Weber , Executive Director of Robin Hood Ventures : How to Influence without a Hierarchy
- Ellen Gallagher, CEO-Wilkes University: Matching Your Message: Adapting Your Style for Maximum Influence
