The Executive’s Handbook: Proven Methods & 100 Top Executive Job Boards for Securing Top-Tier Positions
Introduction to Executive Job Seeking
Executive job-seeking is a specialised process requiring a strategic approach. Unlike entry-level or mid-level job searches, securing an executive position involves a more nuanced understanding of the market, extensive networking, and a strong personal brand. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive resource for executives to navigate the job search landscape effectively, from understanding the current market to optimising their CVs, using proven messaging templates to connect with executive recruiters, and leveraging the best 100 executive job boards which are listed at the end of this guide.
The Current Market and Best Industries to Focus on in 2024
The job market for executives in 2024 is dynamic, with several industries showing significant growth and demand for leadership talent. Key trends include:
- Technology: The tech industry continues to expand, with a high demand for executives skilled in AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.
- Healthcare: With ongoing advancements and an aging population, healthcare remains a critical sector for executive roles, particularly in management, innovation, and regulatory affairs.
- Sustainability and Green Energy: As sustainability becomes a priority, there is a rising need for leaders who can drive eco-friendly initiatives and manage sustainable business practices.
- Financial Services: The finance sector is evolving with fintech innovations and regulatory changes, necessitating experienced executives to steer organizations through complex environments.
- E-commerce and Retail: The shift to online shopping has created opportunities for executives in digital marketing, supply chain management, and customer experience optimization.
Focusing on these industries can enhance your chances of finding lucrative and impactful executive roles in 2024.
Modern CV Writing
Writing a modern CV tailored to executive roles is a crucial step in your job search. A well-crafted CV should be concise, impactful, and tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. Here’s how to create an effective executive CV:
1. Professional Summary: Start with a brief summary that highlights your value proposition, relevant strengths, career achievements and professional goals.
2. Core Competencies: List key skills and competencies relevant to the executive role you’re targeting.
3. Career Accomplishments: Use bullet points to outline your major accomplishments using the SAR technique, emphasising situation, actions and results.
4. Tailored Content: Customise your CV for each job application, focusing on the most relevant experience and skills.
5. Clean Design: Use a clean, professional layout with consistent formatting and easy-to-read fonts.
6. Keywords: Incorporate industry-specific keywords to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
For more detailed guidance on crafting an effective CV, refer to the CV & Resume Templates page on the Bigger Fish website. This resource provides a variety of templates and tips to help you create a professional and modern CV that stands out.
Additionally, when creating your CV, ensure that it aligns with best practices and industry standards. The templates available on the CV & Resume Templates page offer excellent examples and frameworks that you can customise to reflect your unique qualifications and achievements. By using these resources, you can enhance your CV's effectiveness and increase your chances of securing an executive position.
Networking Strategies for Executives
Networking is a powerful tool for job seekers, especially at the executive level. Building and maintaining a strong professional network can lead to new opportunities and valuable insights.
Tips for Effective Networking:
1. Attend Industry Events: Participate in conferences, seminars, and industry meetups to connect with other professionals.
2. Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry leaders and join relevant groups.
3. Informational Interviews: Conduct informational interviews to learn about different roles and companies.
4. Professional Associations: Join and actively participate in professional associations related to your field.
5. Maintain Relationships: Keep in touch with former colleagues, mentors, and business contacts.
Executive Job Search Strategies
A targeted job search strategy can help you navigate the competitive executive job market effectively. For more strategies and tips check the Career & Job Seeker Articles at Bigger Fish Executive Branding.
Steps to Develop a Job Search Strategy
1. Define Your Goals: Identify the type of roles, industries, and companies you are interested in.
2. Research Companies: Investigate companies that align with your career goals and values.
3. Create a Target List: Make a list of target companies and prioritize them based on your research.
4. Customize Applications: Tailor your CV and cover letter for each application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
5. Utilize Recruiters: Work with executive recruiters to gain access to exclusive job opportunities.
How to Reach Out to Executive Recruiters
Reaching out to executive recruiters can be a crucial step in your job search. Executive recruiters, also known as headhunters, have extensive networks and can provide valuable connections to top-level job opportunities. Here’s how you can effectively reach out to them.
Tips for Reaching Out to Executive Recruiters
1. Research the Recruiter: Search LinkedIn and find relevant recruiters in your desired industry. Understand the recruiter’s specialisation and the types of roles they typically handle. This will help you tailor your message.
2. Personalize Your Approach: Avoid generic messages. Personalize your communication to reflect your knowledge of the recruiter’s work and your alignment with the roles they fill.
3. Be Clear and Concise: State your purpose clearly and succinctly. Mention your background, current role, and the type of opportunity you are seeking.
4. Highlight Your Achievements: Provide a brief overview of your key accomplishments and how they make you a strong candidate for executive roles.
5. Attach Your CV: Include a well-crafted CV that highlights your executive experience and achievements.
6. Follow Up: If you don’t hear back within a week or two, send a polite follow-up message.
LinkedIn Messenger Introduction
When you're not connected on LinkedIn, messages are limited to just 100 characters. This constraint can make it challenging to convey your full message. When contacting professionals you don't know on LinkedIn, it's crucial to keep your messages short, concise, and always include a CTA (call to action). For job seekers reaching out to recruiters, the initial goal is to connect, build a basic relationship, and then send your CV.
Initial LinkedIn Messages (Under 100 Characters)
Message 1
Hi [Recruiter’s Name],
I’m [Your Name], currently [Your Job Title] at [Your Company]. With extensive experience in [Your Industry], I’m exploring new executive roles. I’d love to connect and discuss potential opportunities.
Best,
[Your Name]
---
Message 2
Hello [Recruiter’s Name],
I’m [Your Name], [Your Job Title] at [Your Company]. I have [X years] in [Your Industry] and am seeking new executive opportunities. Can we connect to discuss?
Thanks,
[Your Name]
---
Message 3
Dear [Recruiter’s Name],
I’m [Your Name], [Your Job Title] at [Your Company]. With a strong background in [Your Field], I’m looking for new executive roles. Would love to connect!
Best,
[Your Name]
Follow-Up LinkedIn Messages (Under 100 Characters)
Message 1
Hi [Recruiter’s Name],
Following up on my previous message. I’m [Your Name], [Your Job Title] at [Your Company]. I’m keen to discuss executive opportunities. Can we connect?
Best,
[Your Name]
---
Message 2
Hello [Recruiter’s Name],
I wanted to follow up. I’m [Your Name], [Your Job Title] at [Your Company]. Seeking new executive roles in [Your Industry]. Let’s connect if possible.
Thanks,
[Your Name]
---
Message 3
Dear [Recruiter’s Name],
Just following up. I’m [Your Name], [Your Job Title] at [Your Company]. Exploring new executive opportunities. Can we discuss?
Best,
[Your Name]
These concise messages are designed to introduce yourself and express your interest in executive opportunities while staying within LinkedIn's character limits for non-connections.
Follow up after connecting messages
Once you're connected, this character limit significantly increases, allowing you to share more detailed information. Bigger Fish Executive Branding recommends sending your CV in PDF format so that your design is locked in and the document displays correctly on a variety of devices, including mobile. Your CTA now changes from “let’s connect” to “can we schedule a call to discuss”. Here are 3 message templates for reaching out to a recruiter after they’ve accepted your connection:
Template 1: Professional Introduction
Hi [Recruiter's Name],
Thank you for connecting! I’m an experienced [Your Job Title] with a strong background in [Industry/Field]. I'm currently exploring new executive opportunities and would love to discuss how my skills and experiences align with any available roles you might have.
Please find my CV attached. Can we schedule a call to discuss?
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Number]
---
Template 2: Specific Interest in a Role
Hi [Recruiter's Name],
I appreciate you connecting with me! I recently came across the [Job Title/Role] position listed on your profile, and I believe my background in [Relevant Experience/Industry] makes me a strong candidate. I’ve attached my CV for your review.
Could we schedule a time to discuss this opportunity further?
Thank you,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Number]
---
Template 3: Open to Opportunities
Hi [Recruiter's Name],
Thanks for accepting my connection request. I am currently seeking new executive opportunities in the [Industry/Field], and I’m confident my experience in [Specific Skill or Experience] could be valuable to potential employers.
Attached is my CV for your consideration. I’m eager to discuss any opportunities that align with my background. Can we schedule a call?
Best,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Number]
---
Feel free to customize these templates to better match your personal style and the specifics of your career.
Example Email Templates
Initial Email
Subject: Experienced [Your Job Title] Seeking New Opportunities
Dear [Recruiter’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am currently the [Your Current Title] at [Your Current Company]. With over [X years] of experience in [Your Industry/Field], I have successfully [Briefly mention a key achievement or responsibility].
I am reaching out to explore potential executive opportunities within [specific industry or role]. Given your expertise in [Recruiter’s specialization], I believe you could provide valuable guidance and potentially connect me with suitable opportunities.
Please find my CV attached for your review. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and accomplishments align with your current or future searches.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of connecting with you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your LinkedIn Profile]
[Attachment: Your CV]
Follow-Up Email
Subject: Follow-Up: Experienced [Your Job Title] Seeking New Opportunities
Dear [Recruiter’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to follow up on my previous email regarding potential executive opportunities within [specific industry or role].
As mentioned, I am currently the [Your Current Title] at [Your Current Company], with significant experience in [Your Industry/Field]. I am eager to leverage my background and achievements, such as [Briefly mention a key achievement or responsibility], in a new executive role.
Please find my CV attached once again for your convenience. I would appreciate any advice or opportunities you could share.
Thank you once again for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your LinkedIn Profile]
[Attachment: Your CV]
Salary Negotiation for Executives
Negotiating your salary and benefits package is a critical step in securing a new executive role.
Tips for Successful Salary Negotiation
1. Do Your Research: Understand the typical salary range for the role and industry.
2. Highlight Your Value: Emphasize your unique skills, experiences, and achievements that justify your desired salary.
3. Be Prepared: Know your minimum acceptable salary and be ready to negotiate other benefits if salary flexibility is limited.
4. Practice Your Pitch: Practice your negotiation conversation to ensure you are confident and clear.
5. Consider the Whole Package: Evaluate the total compensation package, including bonuses, stock options, and other benefits.
You can learn how to expertly negotiate a salary in the Bigger Fish Executive Branding Interview Coaching Course here.
Transitioning to a New Executive Role
Transitioning to a new executive role can be challenging. Proper planning and execution are key to a smooth transition.
Strategies for a Successful Transition
1. Understand the Company Culture: Learn about the company culture and values to integrate smoothly.
2. Set Clear Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals for your first 90 days.
3. Build Relationships: Develop strong relationships with your new team and key stakeholders.
4. Seek Feedback: Regularly seek feedback to understand your performance and areas for improvement.
5. Stay Flexible: Be adaptable and open to change as you settle into your new role.
Interview Coaching
Interview coaching is a critical component for anyone aiming to secure an executive position. Effective coaching can make a significant difference in your performance and confidence during the interview process. Here’s what you need to know about interview coaching, inspired by Bigger Fish’s interview coaching course.
Key Components of Effective Interview Coaching
1. Understanding the Role: Deep dive into the job description and company culture to align your responses with what the employer is looking for.
2. Storytelling Techniques: Craft compelling narratives that highlight your accomplishments and how they relate to the role.
3. Behavioral Interview Strategies: Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your answers to behavioral questions.
4. Body Language and Presentation: Improve your non-verbal communication to convey confidence and professionalism.
5. Follow-Up Practices: Learn how to effectively follow up after an interview to leave a lasting positive impression.
For more detailed information on interview coaching and to explore courses, visit Bigger Fish’s Interview Coaching Course.
100 Top Executive Job Boards for Securing Top-Tier Positions
1. LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com) - The world’s largest professional network, ideal for job seekers to connect with recruiters and find executive roles.
2. Indeed (https://www.indeed.com) - A comprehensive job search engine with a wide range of executive job listings across various industries.
3. Glassdoor (https://www.glassdoor.com) - Offers job listings along with company reviews and salary information, helping executives make informed career decisions.
4. ExecuNet (https://www.execunet.com) - A membership-based network focused on executive job searches and career development resources.
5. The Ladders (https://www.theladders.com) - Specializes in high-end job searches for positions paying $100K+ annually.
6. Ivy Exec (https://www.ivyexec.com) - An exclusive community for high-level professionals offering curated job listings and career resources.
7. Simply Hired (https://www.simplyhired.com) - A job search engine that aggregates listings from various sources, including executive positions.
8. CareerBuilder (https://www.careerbuilder.com) - A popular job board with a broad range of job listings and career advice resources.
9. Monster (https://www.monster.com) - One of the most established job search platforms with numerous executive job opportunities.
10. Hired (https://www.hired.com) - Connects tech and sales professionals with top companies through a streamlined job matching process.
11. ZipRecruiter (https://www.ziprecruiter.com) - A job search engine that uses AI to match job seekers with relevant opportunities.
12. ExecThread (https://execthread.com) - A members-only job board focusing on exclusive executive-level opportunities.
13. Job.com (https://www.job.com) - Uses blockchain technology to improve the hiring process and offers a wide range of job listings.
14. AngelList (https://angel.co) - A platform for startups to find talent, including executive roles in emerging companies.
15. CrunchBoard (https://www.crunchboard.com) - Job board associated with TechCrunch, focusing on tech industry positions.
16. TechCareers (https://www.techcareers.com) - Dedicated to tech industry jobs, including executive and managerial roles.
17. Dice (https://www.dice.com) - A leading job board for technology professionals, featuring many executive positions.
18. eFinancialCareers (https://www.efinancialcareers.com) - Specializes in finance and banking jobs, including senior executive roles.
19. BlueSteps (https://www.bluesteps.com) - A career management service for senior executives offering job search resources and listings.
20. CEO Worldwide (https://www.ceo-worldwide.com) - Connects top executive talent with companies globally.
21. Experteer (https://www.experteer.com) - Offers premium job listings and career advice for senior-level professionals.
22. The Muse (https://www.themuse.com) - Provides job listings along with company profiles and career advice.
23. FlexJobs (https://www.flexjobs.com) - Focuses on flexible and remote job opportunities, including executive positions.
24.Remote.co (https://remote.co) - Specializes in remote job listings across various industries, including executive roles.
25. Just Executive Jobs (https://www.justexecutivejobs.com) - A job board dedicated exclusively to executive-level positions.
26. Exec-appointments (https://www.exec-appointments.com) - Offers a wide range of executive job opportunities across multiple sectors.
27. Careers in Government (https://www.careersingovernment.com) - Job board for public sector positions, including senior leadership roles.
28. Good Food Jobs (https://www.goodfoodjobs.com) - Focuses on job listings in the food industry, including executive roles.
29. HigherEdJobs (https://www.higheredjobs.com) - Specializes in jobs within higher education, including administrative and executive positions.
30. Hound (https://www.hound.com) - Aggregates job listings from employer websites and job boards, including executive roles.
31. Idealist (https://www.idealist.org) - Nonprofit job board with listings for executive positions in the social sector.
32. InHerSight (https://www.inhersight.com) - Focuses on job listings and company ratings from women’s perspectives, including executive roles.
33. Institute of Directors](https://www.iod.com) - Offers job listings for director-level positions, along with resources and professional development opportunities for board members.
34. LiveCareer (https://www.livecareer.com) - Offers job listings and career advice resources, including resume and cover letter tools.
35. Mediabistro (https://www.mediabistro.com) - Specializes in media and communications jobs, including senior roles.
36. MightyRecruiter (https://www.mightyrecruiter.com) - A job posting service with a wide range of job listings, including executive positions.
37. MilitaryHire (https://www.militaryhire.com) - Connects veterans with employers, featuring executive roles suited for military experience.
38. MyFutureJob (https://www.myfuturejob.com) - Job search engine with a variety of job listings, including executive positions.
39. National Labor Exchange (https://www.usnlx.com) - A public job board with a wide range of job listings, including senior roles.
40. Nexxt (https://www.nexxt.com) - Offers job listings and career resources for job seekers at all levels, including executives.
41. OnGig (https://www.ongig.com) - Helps companies create engaging job listings and includes a variety of executive positions.
42. OneWire (https://www.onewire.com) - Focuses on finance and banking jobs, featuring senior executive roles.
43. Opportunity (https://www.myopportunity.com) - Professional networking and job matching platform with executive job listings.
44. PNet (https://www.pnet.co.za) - South African job board with a wide range of job listings, including executive roles.
45. RecruitMilitary (https://recruitmilitary.com) - Connects veterans with employers, featuring senior-level positions.
46. Resume-Library (https://www.resume-library.com) - Job board with a wide range of job listings and resume tools.
47. Robert Half (https://www.roberthalf.com) - Recruitment agency specializing in finance, tech, and administrative roles, including executive positions.
48. Scouted (https://www.scouted.io) - Job matching platform focusing on fit and potential, featuring executive job listings.
49. SimplyLawJobs (https://www.simplylawjobs.com) - Specializes in legal industry jobs, including senior roles.
50. Snagajob (https://www.snagajob.com) - Job board focusing on hourly jobs but also includes senior-level positions.
51. Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) (https://www.shrm.org) - Offers HR job listings, including executive roles in human resources.
52. Stack Overflow Jobs (https://stackoverflow.com/jobs) - Job board for tech professionals, featuring senior roles.
53. TheJobNetwork (https://www.thejobnetwork.com) - Job search engine with a wide range of job listings, including executive positions.
54. Top Echelon (https://www.topechelon.com) - Network of recruiters offering executive job listings and recruitment services.
55. TopResume (https://www.topresume.com) - Provides resume writing services and features executive job listings.
56. Totaljobs (https://www.totaljobs.com) - One of the UK’s largest job boards, featuring a wide range of job listings including executive roles.
57. Trovit (https://www.trovit.com) - Job search engine that aggregates listings from multiple sources, including senior positions.
58. TrueCareers (https://www.truecareers.com) - Offers job listings and career advice for professionals at all levels, including executives.
59. U.S. Jobs (https://us.jobs) - National job board with a wide range of job listings, including senior roles.
60. Upwork (https://www.upwork.com) - Platform for freelancers, including opportunities for executive consultants.
61. VentureLoop (https://www.ventureloop.com) - Job board for startup jobs, including executive roles in emerging companies.
62. Virtual Vocations (https://www.virtualvocations.com) - Specializes in remote job listings, including executive positions.
63. Wall Street Oasis (https://www.wallstreetoasis.com) - Focuses on finance industry jobs, featuring senior roles.
64. WayUp (https://www.wayup.com) - Job board for students and recent graduates, including entry-level executive roles.
65. We Work Remotely (https://weworkremotely.com) - Specializes in remote job listings, featuring executive positions.
66. WhatJobs (https://www.whatjobs.com) - Job search engine with a wide range of job listings, including senior roles.
67. Working Not Working (https://www.workingnotworking.com) - Job board for creative professionals, including senior creative roles.
68. WorkInSports (https://www.workinsports.com) - Focuses on sports industry jobs, including executive roles.
69. Workopolis (https://www.workopolis.com) - Canadian job board with a wide range of job listings, including senior positions.
70. Wzayef(https://www.wzayef.com) - Job board focusing on the Middle East, including executive positions across various sectors.
71. XING (https://www.xing.com) - Professional networking site popular in German-speaking countries, offering executive job listings.
72. YardAndGroom (https://www.yardandgroom.com) - Specialized job board for equestrian professionals, including senior roles.
73. YourMembership (https://www.yourmembership.com) - Provides job board solutions for associations, featuring executive positions.
74. Zippia (https://www.zippia.com) - Job search engine with data-driven job recommendations, including senior roles.
75. 100kCrossing (https://www.100kcrossing.com) - Job board focusing on positions paying $100K+ annually.
76. 6FigureJobs (https://www.6figurejobs.com) - Specializes in executive and high-paying job listings across various industries.
77. America’s Job Exchange (https://www.americasjobexchange.com) - Job board with a focus on diversity hiring, including executive roles.
78. Archinect (https://archinect.com) - Job board for architecture professionals, including senior positions.
79. Behance (https://www.behance.net) - Creative job board featuring senior roles in design and multimedia.
80. BioSpace (https://www.biospace.com) - Focuses on life sciences and biotechnology jobs, including executive positions.
81. ClearanceJobs (https://www.clearancejobs.com) - Job board for positions requiring security clearances, including senior roles.
82. Women on Boards](https://www.womenonboards.net) - A job board and network aimed at promoting gender diversity on boards, featuring director and NED roles.
83. ComputerJobs (https://www.computerjobs.com) - Job board specializing in IT and tech positions, including senior roles.
84. Crunchboard (https://www.crunchboard.com) - Tech industry job board associated with TechCrunch, featuring executive positions.
85. CyberCoders (https://www.cybercoders.com) - Recruitment firm specializing in tech and engineering jobs, including senior roles.
86. Eluta (https://www.eluta.ca) - Canadian job search engine that aggregates job listings from employer websites, including executive positions.
87. EnvironmentJobs (https://www.environmentjobs.com) - Focuses on environmental and sustainability job listings, including senior roles.
88. FashionJobs (https://www.fashionjobs.com) - Job board for fashion industry professionals, including executive positions.
89. Getwork (https://www.getwork.com) - Job search engine that sources listings from company career sites, including senior roles.
90. GreenBiz (https://www.greenbiz.com) - Focuses on sustainable business job listings, including executive positions.
91. HigherEdJobs (https://www.higheredjobs.com) - Job board for higher education positions, including senior administrative roles.
92. Idealist (https://www.idealist.org) - Nonprofit job board featuring executive roles in the social sector.
93. iHire (https://www.ihire.com) - Network of industry-specific job boards, including executive positions.
94. Internships. com (https://www.internships.com) - Job board for internships and entry-level roles, including opportunities for aspiring executives.
95. ITJobPro (https://www.itjobpro.com) - Job board for IT professionals, featuring senior positions.
96. Ladders (https://www.theladders.com) - Specializes in high-end job searches for positions paying $100K+ annually.
97. MyFutureJob (https://www.myfuturejob.com) - Job search engine with a variety of job listings, including executive positions.
98. Robert Half (https://www.roberthalf.com) - Recruitment agency specializing in finance, tech, and administrative roles, including executive positions.
99. NEDonBoard](https://www.nedonboard.com) - A dedicated platform for Non-Executive Directors, offering a range of board-level job opportunities and resources for NEDs
100. ZipRecruiter (https://www.ziprecruiter.com) - A job search engine that uses AI to match job seekers with relevant opportunities.
Further Advice on CV Writing
Writing a compelling CV is crucial for executive job seekers. It must clearly convey your leadership skills, strategic vision, and ability to drive organizational success. Here are some tips from Bigger Fish Executive Branding
1. Tailor Your CV to the Job: Each CV should be customised to match the specific requirements of the job you are applying for. Highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the role.
2. Focus on Achievements, Not Responsibilities: Demonstrate your impact with quantifiable achievements. Instead of listing job duties, focus on how you improved processes, increased revenue, or led successful projects.
3. Showcase Leadership and Strategic Thinking: Emphasize your leadership qualities and strategic decision-making abilities. Provide examples of how you have guided teams, influenced company direction, and achieved long-term goals.
4. Keep it Concise: Executive CVs should be concise and focused. Aim for two to three pages, highlighting your most significant achievements and roles.
5. Use a Professional Format: Ensure your CV is well-organised and professionally formatted. Use bullet points, clear headings, and consistent fonts to make it easy to read. Download advanced cv templates here.
6. Include a Strong Personal Brand Statement: Start with a compelling executive summary or personal brand statement that encapsulates your professional identity and value proposition.
7. Highlight Continuous Learning and Development: Demonstrate your commitment to professional growth by including relevant certifications, courses, and continuous education.
By following these strategies and leveraging the top executive job boards, you can enhance your chances of securing a high-level position that aligns with your career aspirations.
For more detailed guidance, Bigger Fish Executive Branding offers valuable resources on CV writing, LinkedIn optimisation and interview coaching specifically tailored to executive job seekers. They emphasise the importance of a well-crafted CV in standing out in a competitive market .
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