If you took some time during the COVID-19 lockdown to re-evaluate your role as a leader and you have decided that you are ready and prepared for a move, now is the time to explore real options in more detail.

In the Exploration phase of the four-step APEX model of career development – Assessment and Preparation were dealt with in the previous column, published on 16 April - you are basically finding out more information about what concrete possibilities are out there and how to go about turning one of them into reality, whether you are an experienced leader or a fairly new leader near the start of your career.

For mature leaders, you will probably want to reach out to your extensive network of trusted counselors, peers and mentors for general advice and specific ideas, as well as recommendations for reputable search firms or "headhunters”. If you can’t meet anyone for lunch right now, set up a regular or video call.

And for less experienced and aspiring leaders, "be thorough in your research and keep an eye on new trends as the job market changes. What types of jobs work well with your strengths and values?”, says Norette Turimuci, Executive Director of Resonate, which helps empower young Rwandans - particularly women - and helps them develop their leadership skills.

When researching potential job-givers, Norette recommends finding out what their vision, mission and history are and what job requirements and salary expectations might be. "Research salary ranges for similar positions at other organisations to prepare for negotiating later,” she adds.

Normally, you would want to actively network with, observe and/or shadow people who are already doing what you might want to do – three weeks in a legal firm when this was writer was 14 years old were enough to make him realize that he would never make a great lawyer - but such actions are obviously more difficult to carry out right now.

But you can at least arrange informational phone interviews to find out more about the reality of doing such work and if people love what they do, they are normally more than happy to share why and give advice. 

Once you have explored these different possibilities, it will be time to move into the eXecution phase of the APEX model: showing firm interest, applying for certain jobs and hopefully negotiating terms.

Unfortunately, most people will not be flooded with offers of job interviews. Or even responses to their emails. Even if they are experienced.

"There is a confidence gap between women and men that makes it more challenging for women to pursue the jobs that they deserve, says Norette. "Unfortunately, these future leaders cannot afford to wait for opportunities to find them, or for a response from an employer they emailed months ago. They will need to be very proactive and follow up assertively.”

And in the meantime, Norette adds: "Don’t overlook unpaid opportunities, such as community projects and volunteering, as a way to gain experience and learn important skills. View every project, task or assignment as an opportunity to grow and learn.”

If you do get asked for an interview, treat every one of them seriously even if it is not your dream job. It may be a step to a better job or new career in the future. And at the very least, it will be good practice and help to calm nerves for other interviews.

"Learn to tell your story so you can stand out. Employers will connect with you and remember you if you powerfully communicate your values and why you think you are the best person for the role” says Norette, adding: "practice answering interview questions through role-play. Engage your friends or family in this exercise at home and ask them to give you feedback.”

This columnist just e-coached an experienced finance manager at a major pharmaceutical company in Australia through the whole process of applying for a different kind of job in another department. A largely lateral move to diversify his experience and skills.

The day before the crucial interview, we conducted a 10-minute mock interview, followed by a half-hour debrief with detailed, constructive feedback. When he told me he got the job, he said: "It was very useful to discuss with you the day before.”

If only, every work search had such a happy ending!

If you want to comment on this column or any other related issue, please send an email to: jeremy@jeremysolomons.com

The views expressed in this column are those of the writer