I’m a big fan of ExecuNet – a terrific resource for executive job seekers. Every Friday I get an email news note that  includes spot-on advice from executives who have “landed.” Here are the words of wisdom from today:

Be sure your objectives are clear to yourself and that you can communicate them effectively.

One of the most important – yet most overlooked – tasks of preparing for a job search is clarifying what you’re looking for. If you haven’t done so, your efforts will be unfocused, you message will be muddy, and you’ll confuse your network contacts. Don’t let that happen to you!

Are you afraid to specialize? Afraid that by stating your specific interests and expertise you’ll limit your opportunities?

Interestingly, the opposite is true. By trying to appeal to all interests, you appeal strongly to none. After all, employers want to hire people who are experts! If you were hiring for a very specific need, which candidate would you choose?

• CFO for any size company, public or private
• CFO with experience in public-company M&A and a background in technology start-ups

• Sales & Marketing Executive – multiple marketing channels, diverse products and services
• Sales & Marketing Executive – expert in building brands and creating demand for luxury consumer goods

It’s true that by defining your niche you won’t appeal to everybody. But… do you really want to? Wouldn’t you rather do what you love and work where your expertise is valued?

Wow, I heard 3 client success stories this week. It’s incredibly satisfying to hear, “I’ve landed!” and learn how the job search went (pretty quickly), how the new job was found (recruiter, network referral, Internet resume posting), and the enticing prospects at each exciting new position.

When it’s your turn to land, will you be prepared?

• Start with a clear understanding of your expectations for the first 6 months. You should have uncovered this during the interview process, but it makes sense to verify with your new boss. After all, how will anyone know you’ve succeeded if there is no definition of success?
• Get to know your new organization and people.
• Create a plan and invite input from your new team.
• Execute!
• Track and share results. Keep refining your plan, set new goals, and create momentum for the next 6 months.

There are countless books and articles that delve into much more detail on this topic. Here are a few:

• Mastering the First 90 Days in a New Job
• Make it or Break It: The First 90 Days at Work
• The First 90 Days: Critical Success Strategies for New Leaders at All Levels
• Fatal Mistakes When Starting a New Job
• 9 Steps to New Job Success

Just don’t forget to first celebrate your success – enjoy the moment and congratulate yourself on your effort and your results. Then you can plunge into the new, exciting challenge.