If you’re applying for a position in the C-Suite, chances are you’ve already had a noteworthy career and would be a desirable addition to any company. But you probably already know that. The question is- does your potential employer know that? In a sea of resumes, interviews, and LinkedIn profiles, what will tell them that YOU are the best fit?
Knowing what makes an exemplary C-Suite executive can help ensure you get the job you’re seeking. Of course, you’ll want to play up your personal strengths and achievements, but you’ll also want to make sure you cover the desirable attributes they want in a candidate.
Here are 5 of the most sought-after skills and traits of a C-Suite executive.
1. Expert Negotiator- Whether negotiating a new deal or addressing an issue with your sales team, you’ll need to be well-equipped with solid decision-making processes and relevant data to support them. Perhaps Christopher Voss, an American businessman and author, explained it best. “Successful negotiation is not about getting to ‘yes’; it’s about mastering ‘no’ and understanding what the path to an agreement is.”
2. Active Listener- We all think we’re listening well, but in high-powered jobs, many executives listen with the intent of forming a counterpoint or rebuttal. And this makes sense because, in a C-Level role, you’re used to fixing things and problem-solving. But real listening, the kind that leads to a better leader, means listening as a sounding board without needing to offer anything in return. We’d be lying if we said this was easy, but it’s worth striving for.
3. Empathetic and Relatable- Every C-Suite leader should prioritize making their work environments a place people want to be and this happens through less stress and improved morale. You’ll need to be a keen observer of your teams and the difficulties they face. By taking time to be present and understand their backgrounds and preferences, you can better tailor your leadership style so that it’s embraced to its full potential. This investment will only improve job satisfaction and workplace output, something that you can’t put a price on.
4. Willing to Take Risks- When your work involves being in charge of others and their performance, there are bound to be times when your decisions aren’t always favorable, and that’s ok. The important thing is that you can show your choices are in the best interest of all, and that you’re committed to doing what’s right, not popular.
5. Being Flexible- Having a growth mindset and being adaptable to new changes or hurdles is essential to successful leadership. Today’s employees are looking for candidates who can easily adjust directions and goals as needed. They also value leaders who are forward-thinking and prepared to do what it takes to move their company forward. It’s easy to become stagnant in corporate roles, but today’s top executives need to remain dynamic and flexible in their approach.
Remember, when applying for a position in the C-Suite you are your own brand, and how you sell yourself can be the difference between getting a job offer or a rejection. Focus on what you bring to the table that sets you apart, and try incorporating some of these attributes in your resume and interview. Looking for additional advice and guidance? Visit thedigitalhealthrecruiter.com to learn more about our extensive services.
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