You’ve reached out to recruiters.

You’ve updated your resume.

You’ve hit “Apply” more times than you can count.

And still… crickets.

If recruiters aren’t calling back or aren’t helping you move forward in your search, you’re not imagining things. And you’re not the only one.

Let’s unpack what’s actually going on, what you can (and can’t) expect from recruiters, and how to take control of your job search when your inbox is empty.

Recruiters aren’t ghosting you to be rude. They’re just not your job search partner.

Here’s what most candidates don’t realize:

• Recruiters work for the company, not the candidate.
  Their job is to fill open roles as quickly and efficiently as possible.
   

• They focus on active openings.
  If your background doesn’t match a current search, they move on.
   

• They’re juggling hundreds of candidates.
  Even well-intentioned recruiters don’t have time to respond to everyone.

So if you’ve been waiting for a recruiter to notice you and change your career trajectory, it’s time for a new plan.

If recruiters aren’t helping, you need a strategy that puts you in the driver’s seat.

Here’s what I help my clients focus on:

Most seasoned professionals are underselling themselves—or worse, marketing themselves for the job they just left.

You need to:

• Craft a resume and LinkedIn profile that tell a clear, compelling story

• Align your materials with what hiring managers are actually looking for

• Show up online in a way that reinforces your value

At the executive level, relying on online applications is like fishing in a pond where the fish are already caught.

Instead:

• Identify 25 to 30 target companies

• Find internal decision-makers and warm network connections

• Use a compelling outreach strategy to start conversations (not just send resumes)

This is where most job seekers spin out. But when you know what to say and who to say it to, doors open.

Whether you’re actively job searching or just quietly exploring, building visibility is key.

That means:

• Staying in touch with your network

• Engaging with relevant industry content

• Sharing insights from your zone of genius

You don’t have to become an influencer, but you do need to show up in the spaces where hiring decisions are being made.

Only if you want:

• A clear strategy tailored to you

• Honest feedback from someone who’s hired and recruited

• Help repositioning yourself for better roles (and better pay)

• Support when you hit a wall or need a push

AI can’t coach you through emotional burnout. Recruiters can’t design your search strategy.

But I can.

I work directly with VPs and Directors who are tired of waiting for permission, ready to reposition their brand, and want real results—not just busywork.

→Also read: Is executive career coaching worth it? Here’s what to know before hiring one.