Alan was the picture of corporate success: a senior-level executive entrusted with critical responsibilities at his organization. From the outside, his career appeared to be thriving, but inside, Alan was battling an intense struggle. For years, he had worked tirelessly, routinely logging 17-hour days. The pressure was unrelenting, and despite his efforts, he began to feel a growing sense of dissatisfaction and burnout. The company he had once been proud to serve no longer aligned with his personal mission, vision, and values. Worse still, despite his monumental contributions, he felt increasingly unappreciated and overlooked.
Alan often asked himself: Is this all there is? He knew that staying in a role where he felt misaligned and undervalued wasn’t sustainable, but he didn’t have the time or energy to dedicate to finding something better.
The grind of his daily responsibilities left little room for anything else—let alone the daunting task of launching a job search at his level.
Alan was caught in a trap familiar to many high-performing executives: too busy working to take control of his future.
Alan’s Experience Was Not Unique
Alan’s situation was far from rare. Research shows that many senior executives experience similar struggles. A Deloitte survey revealed that 82% of executives reported feeling exhausted, with many showing clear signs of burnout. Another study by the American Hospital Association found that 74% of healthcare executives had felt burned out in the past six months, while 93% believed that this exhaustion had a detrimental impact on their organizations.
Despite the prevalence of executive burnout, finding a new role isn’t straightforward for leaders like Alan. Senior executives face unique challenges in the job market, including a limited pool of suitable roles, a need for discretion, and the importance of finding a position that aligns with their strategic goals and personal values. Alan knew he needed help—and that’s when he turned to ExecuNet.
How ExecuNet Made the Difference
From the first consultation, the ExecuNet team took the weight of Alan’s job search off his shoulders. They understood that Alan didn’t just need a new job; he needed a role where he could feel truly valued and where his personal mission and professional aspirations could coexist.
Here’s how ExecuNet supported Alan through his career transition:
- Clarifying His Goals and Value Story: ExecuNet’s coach began by helping Alan articulate his personal mission, vision, and values. Through deep, strategic conversations, they worked together to define what Alan truly wanted from his next role. This clarity allowed Alan to focus his search on organizations that aligned with his values and offered opportunities for meaningful impact.
- Projecting a Compelling Executive Brand: The team at ExecuNet helped Alan revamp his executive resume and LinkedIn profile, among other marketing materials. They emphasized his leadership achievements, strategic acumen, and ability to drive cultural alignment within organizations. The result was a powerful and consistent personal brand that resonated with top recruiters and hiring managers.
- Providing Access to Hidden Opportunities: Alan’s ExecuNet coach facilitated introductions with key decision-makers, ensuring Alan had access to high-quality roles that fit his criteria.
- Personalized Guidance and Emotional Support: Transitioning from one high-level role to another can be an emotional rollercoaster. ExecuNet’s coach provided Alan with ongoing support, offering practical advice and encouragement every step of the way. They helped him prepare for interviews, negotiate offers, and maintain his confidence throughout the process.
- Managing the Process Efficiently: Perhaps most importantly, ExecuNet handled the heavy lifting of the job search, freeing Alan to focus on his current responsibilities and well-being. They managed timelines, followed up on leads, and ensured that Alan remained on track without feeling overwhelmed.
The Outcome: A New Role and Renewed Purpose
Within a few months, Alan found a new role with an organization whose mission, vision, and values aligned perfectly with his own. The position not only offered professional growth but also provided a supportive culture where Alan felt genuinely appreciated.
Reflecting on his journey, Alan realized that working with ExecuNet had been a game changer. The process, which once seemed insurmountable, became manageable with the right support. Alan was able to regain control of his career and, most importantly, rediscover his sense of purpose.
The Broader Lesson
Alan’s story highlights a reality faced by many senior executives: even those at the top of their fields can feel stuck, unappreciated, and misaligned. But with the right partner, navigating a complex job market becomes not only possible but empowering.
ExecuNet’s specialized approach to executive career transitions makes it an invaluable resource for leaders like Alan. By taking the burden off executives and providing expert guidance, ExecuNet helps leaders find roles where they can thrive—professionally and personally.
For executives feeling overwhelmed or undervalued, Alan’s story serves as a reminder that they don’t have to go it alone. With the right support, they can reclaim their career trajectory and find fulfillment once more.
