Unlocking High-Ticket Fractional Executive Roles via LinkedIn
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Chapter 1: Attracting High-Ticket Roles
Securing high-value fractional executive positions can be a complex endeavor, particularly in the startup realm. Balancing a side hustle with a primary job is a pursuit that many professionals find appealing. Personally, I find greater fulfillment working as a Fractional Chief Pitching Officer for an AI-driven retail startup, investing only 15 hours a week, rather than spending 40 hours in a corporate cubicle.
While traditional employment has its merits, I thrive in roles where I can actively contribute my insights. However, landing these lucrative fractional roles is a challenge, as they are often not publicly advertised. The key to attracting such opportunities lies in leveraging LinkedIn effectively.
Section 1.1: Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
To draw attention to yourself, your LinkedIn profile must reflect relevant experience in areas such as startups, entrepreneurship, sales, digital strategies, product design, project management, and pitching to investors. You don’t need to master every aspect; having a few key competencies is sufficient.
It's crucial to present your achievements clearly, including the outcomes and the timeframes in which you achieved them. Authenticity is vital; fabricating experiences can lead to difficulties during interviews.
Subsection 1.1.1: Highlight In-Demand Roles
Startups are often on the lookout for specific roles that contribute to their growth trajectory. Here are some positions that typically attract startup interest:
- Product Manager
- Strategy Consultant
- Technology Consultant
- Former CIO or CEO of notable companies
- Chief Commercial Officer for various organizations
These roles are integral to helping startups scale quickly. If you possess experience in any of these areas, make sure to feature them prominently in your LinkedIn summary. This will increase your visibility to high-return side-hustle opportunities.
Section 1.2: Networking Beyond LinkedIn
Unlike traditional job markets that require multiple rounds of interviews, securing fractional executive roles often comes down to just one or two meetings. The emphasis is on establishing mutual trust and chemistry.
For instance, I secured my current role after just two informal coffee meetings, totaling 45 minutes. During these discussions, I and Cristina, the startup founder, shared our expectations candidly, focusing solely on the practicalities of the job. We quickly aligned on my contributions and compensation.
Demonstrating your knowledge and being direct is essential, as startup owners can easily recognize genuine talent.
Chapter 2: The Role of Content Creation
You might be surprised to learn that content creation can significantly enhance your chances of landing high-ticket roles. I can personally attest to this, as several individuals reached out to me via LinkedIn after discovering my YouTube videos.
In fact, I received three enticing opportunities solely because of my online presence. One sought a fractional Chief Product Designer to guide product monetization, another was for a fractional Chief Digital Marketing Officer, and the last invited me to join as a co-fractional CIO. I ultimately declined these offers due to existing commitments, but they illustrate how valuable quality content can be in attracting lucrative roles.
Description: In this workshop, discover step-by-step strategies for securing high-ticket clients through LinkedIn.
Description: Explore effective content marketing and outbound strategies to attract high-ticket clients on LinkedIn.
The Reality of Startup Life
While working in a startup can seem glamorous, it comes with its own set of challenges. Your personality plays a significant role in determining the types of opportunities that come your way.
Yes, being a fractional executive allows for an active role and the chance to influence business direction. However, the pressure can be intense. Performance is scrutinized, and the expectations are high; failure to deliver can lead to quick exits.
The ability to thrive under such stress is a personal choice that only you can make.
Summary
High-ticket fractional executive roles are often hidden from view, making it essential to create a compelling LinkedIn profile to attract these opportunities. Remember, it’s not just about the number of hours you can contribute; your ability to deliver results in high-pressure situations is what truly counts. If you can succeed in that environment, these roles can provide some of the most rewarding side-hustles available outside of a traditional job.
About the Author
I share insights based on my life experiences and business interactions, as these perspectives shape our unique viewpoints. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn and Twitter!