Expert Advice from an Executive Recruiter

Debra Boggs
5 days ago
3 min read

A Candid Conversation with Nicole Spain of Artemis Executive Search

If you’ve been firing off applications and hearing crickets, you’re not alone. But you may be aiming at the wrong goal.

We recently sat down with executive recruiter Nicole Spain, a partner with Artemis Executive Search, a firm that works exclusively with mid-market PE and VC-backed companies.

She shared candid, behind-the-scenes insight into what’s actually working in today’s tight executive market and what’s not.

Her advice? It’s time to get focused and show up ready to win.

1. Stop the "Spray and Pray" Approach and Start Advocating for Yourself

Nicole shared that she often hears that people are applying to 100 or more jobs online and not hearing back.

However, applying through LinkedIn with no plan is almost always fruitless and emotionally taxing, especially for senior leaders. “You’re one of 1,000 applicants and it’s ineffective,” she shared.

Instead, she urges executives to build a better strategy. This means aligning your resume to the role, being crystal clear on your goals, and coming to every conversation prepared to articulate your value.

In a private equity-backed market where companies have money but are still cautious right now, she says it’s your job to capitalize on every shot on goal that you get.

2. A Clear Focus Is Compelling

Nicole advises leaders to resist the temptation to cast too wide a net. Saying you can do a lot of things well isn’t convincing.

Hiring managers want to know where you bring the most value and that you’re confident in it. In a cautious hiring environment like we’re in right now, companies aren’t hiring generalists.

Executive recruiters like Nicole want to help, but only when they know what you want and where you’re heading. “I’m thrilled when a candidate shows up knowing their goal, having done their research, and with a specific ask,” she said. “I can’t figure out their direction for them.”

3. Lead with Lessons Learned, Not Just Accomplishments

What stands out to hiring managers right now? Nicole says it's not just success stories. It’s self-awareness.

Be ready to talk about what you’ve learned, the roadblocks you’ve overcome, and how you can now recognize potential problems from a mile away and get ahead of them.

“It is invaluable to tell a company that I tried this, it didn’t work, I learned on someone else’s dime, and I won't make that mistake again.”

4. Don't Let Rejection Derail You

Finally, Nicole reminds executives to protect their energy. “You need an emotional wall,” she said.

“You have to embrace the uncomfortable. If someone doesn’t want to talk to you, move on. Rejection isn’t personal.”

Instead, she recommends staying focused on what you can control: your clarity, your outreach, and your preparation.

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