Networking is a great idea, but as you've probably guessed, your contacts from your new executive jobs aren't well versed in the career that you are trying for right now. Perhaps you have experience that they know of, but isn't relevant in the new career. That is why it is so important for you to make sure all of your contacts are updated and that they know what you are capable of. For the most part, your networked individuals are not going to embellish or lie for you; their reputations are on the line as well.
When trying to break into new executive careers, it is important to try to make new contacts. Can you do this? That is completely up to you, but your new job may depend on it.
You need to find people that you don't know, and try to keep in touch with them. This might sound shallow, but it is very important to make a lot of new friends based on their position and influence in the industry that you are trying to become a part of. Those in Vice President jobs would be a definite plus, but that's not always a guaranteed connection. Also make sure that you don't make it too obvious that you are using these people for connections. It might be obvious to them, but you don't need to make it obvious, if that makes any sense at all.
Executive careers are naturally going to be difficult to get into, and sometimes you might need help to get your foot in the door. Do not be ashamed to accept help from one of your connections. After all, it's not important how you made your way into a position, what matters is, what you do with it.
When trying to work your way into new executive jobs or even vice president jobs, it is important that you present yourself as a courteous person. Even though some in executive positions might not market themselves as such, you need to do so in order to make friends and show respect. You can be as cutthroat as you want when you make it into the position you want, but for the moment, try to practice some restraint!
Also, you must market yourself as being a professional in your field. Make people believe you are an expert! If you don't know something, learn all about it, because at some point it's going to become incredibly important in your career. No, it's not going to be easy, but no one ever said it was going to be.
Finally, make sure that you have a decent resume. Your resume tells people who you are, and what you are capable of. Make sure it's good, complete, and easy to read. These tips and many others will help you change your career and start the job of your dreams.
