In this episode, Sarah breaks down how executive recruiters actually operate - and why the typical “send your CV and wait” approach doesn’t work at a senior level. If you’re aiming for leadership roles, you’ll learn how to position yourself strategically, build strong recruiter relationships, and stand out as a credible, low-risk candidate.

What You’ll Learn

The biggest misconception about executive recruiters
How recruiters assess senior candidates
Why positioning matters more than your CV
5 practical ways to work with recruiters effectively
How to make recruiters a powerful part of your job search strategy

Timestamps

[00:00] Welcome & podcast introduction

[01:00] Global reach milestone + episode overview

[02:00] Client story: feeling stuck and overlooked by recruiters

[03:00] The biggest misconception about recruiters

[04:00] Why a passive job search strategy fails

[05:00] Case study: shifting positioning and strategy

[06:00] How executive recruiters actually think

[07:00] What makes you “easy to place”

[07:30] 5 practical strategies to work with recruiters

[07:30] 1. Be specific about what you want

[08:00] 2. Lead with value, not your CV

[08:30] 3. Build relationships, not transactions

[09:00] 4. Prepare properly for recruiter conversations

[09:30] 5. Don’t rely on recruiters alone

[10:00] The mindset shift: recruiters are part of your strategy

[11:00] Final thoughts + how to get support

Key Takeaway

Recruiters don’t find you a job - you position yourself so they can confidently place you. When you get clear, strategic, and visible, they become valuable allies rather than a frustrating dead end.

Useful Links

Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

Rate & Review the Podcast

If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

Episode 75 How to Work Effectively with Executive Recruiters