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By Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter
Let’s be honest: executive job searches aren’t won by clicking “Apply.”
They’re won in conversations, private emails, warm intros, and the invisible trust economy that powers C-suite hiring behind the scenes.
I’ve coached thousands of professionals and executives through job search transitions over the years. And when it comes to landing high-level roles—CEO, CFO, COO, CTO, and beyond—networking is everything.
But not just any kind of networking.
You’re not asking for favors. You’re not begging for interviews. You’re building credibility, visibility, and opportunity by showing up like a peer, not a candidate.
Here are 10 networking strategies every C-suite leader should master to tap into the hidden job market and unlock executive opportunities faster and more effectively.
1. Reconnect with Strategic Former Colleagues
Start with the people who already know your value—former bosses, board members, direct reports, vendors, or peers. These relationships often lie dormant, but they hold enormous opportunity.
Reach out with a simple message:
“Hey [Name], I’ve been reflecting on my time at [Company] and would love to catch up. I’d also value your perspective as I think about my next chapter.”
Make the outreach about them, not you. The job leads will follow naturally.
2. Use the “Board of Advisors” Approach
Create a short list of 5–7 trusted peers or mentors who will act as informal advisors during your search. You’re not asking them to find you a job—you’re keeping them in the loop and inviting their ideas, introductions, and intel.
Executives often overlook this because they think they need to go it alone. Don’t. Senior-level job searches are lonely—and high-trust feedback loops are invaluable.
3. Be Seen Where Executives Show Up
This means:
- Industry-specific conferences (even virtual ones)
- Executive roundtables and peer groups
- Webinars with PE firms or thought leaders
- Invite-only leadership forums (e.g., YPO, Chief, Vistage)
You don’t have to speak to be seen. You just have to show up, engage thoughtfully, and follow up intentionally.
4. Make Warm Introductions Your Currency
Don’t just ask for intros—give them. Be the person who connects two other high-level people for mutual value.
When you introduce others to opportunity, insight, or partnership, you build reputation capital. The kind that pays you back tenfold when you’re quietly on the market.
5. Create “Passive Visibility” on LinkedIn
You don’t need to go full influencer mode. But LinkedIn is the platform where executive recruiters and decision-makers quietly vet you.
Post or comment once or twice a week. Share a quick leadership insight, link to a recent deal or article, or comment thoughtfully on an industry topic.
Example:
“Leading through uncertainty requires clarity, not control. In my last turnaround role, we used 3 principles to keep teams aligned—transparency, rhythm, and trust.”
It shows you’re current, credible, and comfortable in the seat.
6. Target the Right Executive Search Firms
Not all recruiters are created equal. At the C-suite level, you’re dealing with retained executive search firms, not contingency recruiters.
Make a list of the top 10–15 firms in your space. Look for senior partners who specialize in your function and industry. Reach out with a short message introducing your background and ideal next step—not just a resume dump.
Better yet, find someone in your network who can introduce you to them directly.
7. Mine Private Equity & Venture Capital Networks
PE and VC firms are always hiring and upgrading executive teams in their portfolio companies—and they often bypass job boards altogether.
Identify firms whose investment thesis aligns with your experience (e.g., growth-stage SaaS, distressed retail turnarounds, healthcare roll-ups). Reach out to their talent partners or operating partners directly.
Let them know:
- What you’ve done (metrics and impact)
- What kinds of companies excite you
- What stage/scale/situation you thrive in
This moves you into their trusted talent bench before the role even opens.
8. Ask for Micro-Meetings, Not Coffee Chats
Everyone’s busy. Instead of “Can I pick your brain?” try:
“Would you be open to a quick 15-minute call to get your insights on where growth-stage firms are hiring right now?”
This is respectful of their time and sets a clear reason for the ask.
Bonus tip: Always end your meeting by asking,
“Is there anyone else you’d suggest I speak with?”
That single question can unlock an entirely new network thread.
9. Turn Speaking Engagements into Warm Leads
If you’ve got the credentials, put yourself out there: speak on panels, podcasts, webinars, or alumni events.
This does two things:
- It positions you as a thought leader (without pitching yourself).
- It gives you a reason to follow up with attendees, panelists, or organizers—people who now know your name and your voice.
Tip: Start local or within your niche. Then scale up as your visibility grows.
10. Always Stay in Touch After the Job Is Won
The #1 mistake I see executives make? They stop networking once they land.
Executives get so buried in new roles, P&L pressure, and team dynamics that they neglect the very relationships that got them there.
Set a monthly calendar reminder to touch base with 3–5 people. Congratulate them on a new role. Forward an article. Offer to help.
You’ll need them again—and sooner than you think.
🔚 Final Thought
C-suite networking isn’t about quantity—it’s about quality, consistency, and generosity.
If you invest in relationships before you need them, you’ll never need to panic when it’s time for your next move.
The hidden job market isn’t mythical. It’s just hidden from people who don’t know where (or how) to look.
But for those who network with intention? It’s wide open.
Ⓒ The Big Game Hunter, Inc., Asheville, NC 2025
ABOUT JEFF ALTMAN, THE BIG GAME HUNTER
People hire Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter to provide No BS job search coaching and career advice globally because he makes job
search and succeeding in your career easier. Schedule a discovery call to speak with me about one-on-one or group coaching during your job search at www.TheBigGameHunter.us.
You will also find great info and job search coaching to help with your job search at JobSearch.Community You can get free copies of 25 Interview Questions and Answers, How to Craft a Compelling Elevator Pitch in 20 Seconds or Less, Get Ready for the Job Jungle, Diagnosing Your Job Search Problems, No BS Resume Advice, and Prove Your Worth First, Then Negotiate. Receive free weekly suggestions and more.
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