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The One-Page Strategy That Opens Doors Before CVs Do

Most executives spend hours polishing a CV that gets skimmed in seconds.

They lead with job history, titles, and keywords — hoping to tick the right boxes. But in today’s market, that’s not how doors open. High-level roles are rarely landed through formal applications. They’re unlocked through strategic conversations — and conversations don’t start with a CV. They start with clarity.

The most effective leaders I work with don’t lead with a document that looks backward. They lead with a tool that positions them forward. A one-pager. Not a resume. Not a cover letter. A one-page overview that distills their value into a sharp, strategic message.

One that makes the reader say: “We need to talk to this person.”

Here’s why it works.

First, it flips the script. Instead of listing job duties, it frames outcomes. It answers the questions every decision-maker is silently asking: What kind of problems do you solve? What results have you delivered? And what’s your strategic focus going forward?

Second, it creates immediate clarity. While CVs are long and dense, a one-pager is brief and compelling. It’s skimmable. Sharable. Memorable. It helps people place you, fast — even if there’s no open role. That’s the key. The best opportunities aren’t listed. They’re initiated. And your one-pager acts as a catalyst.

Third, it gives you control. Instead of waiting to be found, you’re proactively shaping the narrative. You’re leading the conversation with intention, not reacting to job specs. You’re showing what you stand for — and what kind of leadership you bring to the table.

What makes a one-pager work? It’s not a template. It’s a strategy. The most effective versions include four things:

  1. A strong positioning headline that frames your core value.

  2. A brief summary of your leadership approach or unique lens.

  3. A bullet-based list of strategic outcomes or wins.

  4. A section that signals your next direction or ideal impact zone.
    When done right, it works even if you’re not “looking.” It creates momentum, opens doors, and makes you referable. You’re no longer just available — you’re in demand.

If you’re tired of being overlooked, buried under job specs, or misunderstood by recruiters, it’s time to lead with a tool that actually works in your favor. A sharp one-pager not only positions you — it starts conversations that your CV never could.


You don’t need to be more polished. You need to be more placeable. And it starts on a single page.

Take the Executive Career Screening here
This 3-minute strategic self-assessment is designed to show you exactly where your biggest opportunity is — and how to position yourself to attract it.
You don’t need a title. You need traction. Let’s build it.

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