Pod Insights No B.S. Job Search Advice Radio Winning Your Job Search About this episode EP 3037 There are 10 important steps for a successful job search. ABOUT JEFF ALTMAN, THE BIG GAME HUNTER People hire Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter to provide No BS job search coaching and career advice globally because he makes job search and succeeding in your career easier. Schedule a discovery call to speak with me about one-on-one or group coaching during your job search at www. TheBigGameHunter.us. You will also find great info and job search coaching to help with your job search at JobSearch. Community You can get free copies of 25 Interview Questions and Answers, How to Craft a Compelling Elevator Pitch in 20 Seconds or Less, Get Ready for the Job Jungle, Diagnosing Your Job Search Problems, No BS Resume Advice, and Prove Your Worth First, Then Negotiate. Receive free weekly suggestions and more. Subscribe to No BS Job Search Advice Radio, the #1 podcast in Apple Podcasts for job search with more than 3000 episodes. Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/TheBigGameHunter We grant permission for this post and others to be used on your website as long as a backlink is included to www. TheBigGameHunter.us and notice is provided that it is provided by Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter as an author or creator. Not acknowledging his work or providing a backlink to www. TheBigGameHunter.us makes you subject to a $1000 penalty which you proactively agree to pay. Please contact us to negotiate the use of our content as training data.
Transcript 0:00 Speaker 00 UKG is the workforce operating platform with unified HR, payroll, and workforce management. Built to solve the unique challenges of frontline work. Powered by People First AI and decades of labor data, UKG turns workforce intelligence into real-time decisions around staffing, pay, compliance, and productivity, enabling every worker to confidently take action as work happens. Because when work works, everything works. Learn more at ukg.com/work. UKG, HR, Pay, and Workforce Management.
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1:00 Speaker 02 Hey, everyone, and welcome to the deep dive. We're diving into how to stand out in your job search today. And we're focusing on all you experienced pros out there. So that's the 30 and over group with that college degree, ready to take the next step.
1:13 Speaker 03 We've got advice that goes way beyond the usual stuff. We're going to help you figure out what really matters to employers these days.
1:20 Speaker 02 Now, the first thing you need to do might sound a little counterintuitive. Before you even update that resume, you've got to figure out what you want in a job.
1:28 Speaker 03 It's kind of like trying to build a house without blueprints. Most people just skip this part and jump right into applications.
1:34 Speaker 02 Yeah, I could see how that could be a problem.
1:36 Speaker 03 Big time. They end up feeling lost and frustrated and often settle for a job that's just not the right fit.
1:43 Speaker 02 So they're almost setting themselves up for failure right from the start.
1:46 Speaker 03 Exactly. I've worked with some really successful people, impressive resumes and years of experience. But they were struggling. And all because they hadn't stopped to think about what they actually wanted in their career.
1:58 Speaker 02 OK, so self-awareness is key. But how do you make sure you're not just... You know, getting caught up in the hype, like a company's reputation or a fancy job title.
2:08 Speaker 03 That's where targeted questioning comes in. You really have to dig deep, uncover those potential issues. It's easy to just focus on the limited information available.
2:17 Speaker 02 Like, we're only seeing a small part of the picture.
2:19 Speaker 03 There's a name for that, the spotlight effect. And we all do it.
2:23 Speaker 02 So how do we fight against that spotlight effect during a job search?
2:28 Speaker 03 By asking the right questions. Don't be afraid to go into that interview with like 50 or more questions. This shows you're serious.
2:34 Speaker 02 Shows you're prepared.
2:34 Speaker 03 Yeah, you know, really engaged. I suggest finding a good resource, like a book or something, with lots of targeted questions to help guide you.
2:43 Speaker 02 I like that. It's like your secret weapon.
2:44 Speaker 03 Exactly.
2:45 Speaker 02 Okay, so we've got self-awareness. We've got our list of questions ready. What's next?
2:49 Speaker 03 Now it's time to market yourself, that resume. It isn't just a list of every job you've ever had.
2:55 Speaker 02 Right, it's more than that.
2:56 Speaker 03 It's about showcasing how your unique skills can help the employer reach their goals.
3:02 Speaker 02 So it's less about what you did and more about what you can do for them?
3:05 Speaker 03 Exactly. Employers are looking for solutions. Think of it this way, they're buying transformation, not features.
3:12 Speaker 02 Hmm, that's a really interesting way to put it. But how do you show that transformation on a resume? Instead of just listing features?
3:21 Speaker 03 By figuring out what the employer needs and then framing your experience so that it addresses those needs. Like, what are the biggest challenges this company is facing? And how can your skills help them overcome those challenges and reach their goals?
3:34 Speaker 02 Makes sense. So we've got our resume speaking their language. But then there's the problem of actually getting that resume seen by the right people. I mean, submitting applications online can feel like...
3:45 Speaker 03 A black hole.
3:46 Speaker 02 Yes.
3:47 Speaker 03 Yeah.
3:47 Speaker 02 Like, you're just sending your resume off into the void.
3:49 Speaker 03 I call it the applicant trashing system. It's disheartening, makes you feel like a cog in a machine.
3:54 Speaker 02 So how do we escape that system? And make sure our application is actually seen by the right people?
3:59 Speaker 03 Target specific individuals at the companies you want to work for. The hiring managers, the team leaders, the people who have the power to hire.
4:09 Speaker 02 So we're bypassing the system and going straight to the source?
4:11 Speaker 03 You got it. This is a much more proactive approach. It's about building relationships and proving your worth directly to the decision makers.
4:20 Speaker 02 Okay, so that's got to involve some networking.
4:22 Speaker 03 It does, but not the kind where you're just spamming your entire LinkedIn network with generic messages.
4:27 Speaker 02 We've all been there, done that.
4:29 Speaker 03 That's right. This is about strategy. Create a network map. Figure out who in your network can connect you to your dream company. And when you reach out to your contacts, be specific.
4:41 Speaker 02 So no more, "Hey, I need a job. Help" messages.
4:45 Speaker 03 Exactly. Tell them your goals. Tell them how they can help. The more specific you are, the more likely they'll be able to make a useful introduction.
4:51 Speaker 02 Okay, so we've talked about a lot here already. Self-awareness, asking the right questions, marketing yourself, bypassing the system, and networking with a purpose. But what happens when you land that interview? How do you make sure you stand out then?
5:04 Speaker 03 That's where it gets really interesting. Think about it like this. Most people go into an interview playing defense. You know, just trying to answer the questions correctly.
5:13 Speaker 02 Right.
5:13 Speaker 03 We want you to go on offense. Think about what information the interviewer needs. What problems are they trying to solve? How can you show them you're the one to solve those problems?
5:23 Speaker 02 So show them how your skills have led to real results. Not just talk about the skills themselves.
5:29 Speaker 03 Exactly. And the best way to do that is through storytelling. But you've got to be strategic about what stories you tell.
5:36 Speaker 02 Like those stories where you went above and beyond or solved a tricky problem?
5:39 Speaker 03 Right. It's about connecting the dots for the interviewer.
5:42 Speaker 02 I see. So we're not just listing our skills on our resume. We're bringing those skills to life through stories.
5:48 Speaker 03 Exactly. And don't forget about the SERA technique. Context, Activities, Result. That's your framework for crafting a compelling story that showcases your impact.
5:59 Speaker 02 So we're painting a picture for the interviewer. Helping them see us in action and understand the value we bring.
6:04 Speaker 03 You got it. And don't overload them with information.
6:06 Speaker 02 Keep them wanting more.
6:07 Speaker 03 Right. Now, after the interview, a lot of people make a big mistake.
6:12 Speaker 02 They forget to send a thank you note.
6:14 Speaker 03 It seems like such a small thing, but it's crucial. Reinforces your interests and qualifications. Shows that you're genuinely interested in the position. And that you took the time to think about the conversation.
6:26 Speaker 02 Okay, so what makes a thank you note really effective?
6:29 Speaker 03 Keep it short and to the point. Professional.
6:34 Speaker 03 Focused on what the employer needs, you can thank them for their time, restate your qualifications, and really emphasize your interest in the job.
6:43 Speaker 02 So it's a chance to leave a strong, lasting impression.
6:46 Speaker 03 Exactly. A small thing that can make a big difference.
6:49 Speaker 02 Okay, so we've covered self-awareness, targeted questions, marketing yourself, bypassing the system, networking strategically, the art of storytelling in interviews, and the importance of thank you notes. Phew, we've covered a lot of ground already. What about negotiating? That can be a tough one for a lot of people.
7:05 Speaker 03 Yeah, negotiation can feel really awkward, especially if you're not used to it. People worry about looking greedy or risking the job offer. But the truth is, negotiation is completely normal. It's not about being demanding. It's about knowing your worth and advocating for yourself. And you know what? In my experience, 99% of the time, you should negotiate.
7:25 Speaker 02 Wow, 99%. That's a bold statement. Tell me more about why negotiation is so important in almost every situation.
7:33 Speaker 03 Well, it shows the employer you're confident, that you know what you bring to the table. Of course, there might be a rare exception where it's not appropriate, but most of the time, you're doing yourself a disservice if you don't at least try.
7:44 Speaker 02 So, don't leave money on the table. Be ready to make your case, but always be respectful and collaborative during the process.
7:51 Speaker 03 Exactly. It's a conversation, not a battle.
7:54 Speaker 02 All right. We've covered a lot in this first part of our deep dive. We talked about everything from self-awareness and asking targeted questions to interview prep and even negotiation. What are some of the key takeaways you want our listeners to remember?
8:07 Speaker 03 It's all about being strategic, proactive throughout your entire job search. Don't just sit back and apply to jobs. Take control.
8:16 Speaker 02 And remember, it's not about luck. It's about taking action.
8:20 Speaker 03 You got it.
8:21 Speaker 02 Great. We'll be back soon with part two, where we'll dive even deeper into actionable strategies to help you land that dream job.
8:31 Speaker 02 Welcome back to the Deep Dive. We're picking up right where we left off, talking about how to really stand out in your job search.
8:37 Speaker 03 Yeah, it can be tough out there, especially when you're up against so many other qualified people.
8:42 Speaker 02 You're definitely right about that. Preparation is key. But it's not just about, you know, researching the company and the position.
8:49 Speaker 03 Right. It's also about really understanding what you bring to the table.
8:53 Speaker 02 Being able to explain it well, so the hiring manager gets it.
8:56 Speaker 03 Exactly. You can't just list skills on a resume or talk about past experience in some vague way.
9:01 Speaker 02 So you need to help them connect the dots.
9:02 Speaker 03 Yep. Show them how your skills and experience can help them solve their problems. Because, at the end of the day, that's what they're looking for.
9:10 Speaker 02 Someone who can make a difference.
9:11 Speaker 03 Exactly. Now, think about this. Most people go into an interview playing defense.
9:17 Speaker 02 Oh, I know what you mean. Trying to guess what the interviewer will ask and giving the right answers.
9:21 Speaker 03 Right. But we want you to be on offense. Don't just answer their questions. Think about the information they need to make a hiring decision. Like, what problems are they trying to solve?
9:30 Speaker 02 And how can you show them that you can solve those problems?
9:33 Speaker 03 You got it. And the best way to do that? Storytelling. But not just any stories.
9:40 Speaker 02 So those aha moments, where you went above and beyond, or figured out a solution to a tough problem.
9:45 Speaker 03 Right. It's those stories where you made a real impact. And think about the skills you used in those situations, and how they connect to the job you're applying for. Practice telling those stories out loud.
9:56 Speaker 02 So they're clear and engaging.
9:57 Speaker 03 Exactly. And don't be afraid to use those little details that really bring the story to life. Because ultimately, you want to paint a picture, help them see you in that role, and understand the value you would bring to their team.
10:09 Speaker 02 So we're not just listing our skills, we're bringing those skills to life through stories. That makes a lot of sense.
10:16 Speaker 03 You know, there's one thing people often forget to do after an interview, and it's a big mistake.
10:21 Speaker 02 Oh, you mean the thank you note?
10:23 Speaker 03 Yeah, it seems so small, but it's so important. Reinforces your interest, re-erates your qualifications. It shows you're serious, and it shows that you took the time to think about the conversation.
10:35 Speaker 02 So how do you write a really effective thank you note? Should I be super detailed?
10:40 Speaker 03 No, actually, keep it brief, professional, focus on the employer's needs, thank them for their time, restate your key qualifications, and really emphasize that you're still interested. You can even use the thank you note to address any concerns that came up during the interview.
10:55 Speaker 02 Oh, that's a good idea. Like if they had a question about something and you didn't have all the information.
10:58 Speaker 03 Exactly, or if you want to share some extra information. But the most important thing is to keep it short and relevant.
11:04 Speaker 02 Okay, that makes sense. All right, let's switch gears a bit and talk about negotiation. For a lot of people, that's the scariest part.
11:11 Speaker 03 I get it, it can be awkward, especially if you're not used to it. People are afraid to seem greedy or risk the offer.
11:18 Speaker 02 Definitely.
11:18 Speaker 03 But remember, negotiation is normal. It's not about being pushy, it's about knowing what you deserve and advocating for yourself. And from my experience, I can tell you this, 99% of the time, you should negotiate.
11:33 Speaker 02 99%, that's incredible.
11:35 Speaker 03 It's about knowing your worth. So do your research, know what you're worth in the market, understand how the company handles compensation, and be ready to explain why you're asking for what you're asking for. It's really a conversation, not a fight.
11:49 Speaker 02 Right, we're trying to find a solution that works for everyone.
11:51 Speaker 03 Exactly. Now, remember earlier when we talked about the applicant trashing system? Those online job boards that can feel like a black hole?
11:59 Speaker 02 Ugh, yes. You spend hours on your resume and cover letter and it just disappears.
12:03 Speaker 03 It's incredibly frustrating. So how do you avoid getting lost in that system? Well, remember the boss hunting strategy?
12:09 Speaker 02 Oh yeah, go straight to the hiring manager?
12:11 Speaker 03 Exactly, that's one way to get around it. Another is to network strategically. Find people in your network who can connect you with the right people at those companies you want to work for.
12:21 Speaker 02 So networking is really all about using your connections to your advantage.
12:25 Speaker 03 And that's where a network map can help. It's a way to visualize your network and see who can help you reach your goals. And don't be afraid to reach out to people you haven't spoken to in a while.
12:35 Speaker 02 That's true, you never know who might be able to help.
12:38 Speaker 03 It's all about those connections. Now, let's talk about something that can be a real challenge for people with more experience: ageism in the workplace.
12:46 Speaker 02 It's definitely a sensitive subject. But an important one to talk about.
12:50 Speaker 03 Absolutely. It's a real issue. And it can be tough to overcome. But there are things you can do.
12:57 Speaker 02 Like what? How do you fight against that?
12:59 Speaker 03 Focus on what you bring to the table, all that experience and those skills you have. Your maturity. Show off what you've accomplished and highlight your ability to learn and adapt. You can even acknowledge your age directly, but frame it as a strength.
13:12 Speaker 02 So instead of trying to hide your age, you own it?
13:15 Speaker 03 Exactly. You know, I've been in the workforce for 20 years, so I've seen a lot of changes. But I've always been able to adapt and learn new things. It's all about turning that potential negative into a positive.
13:28 Speaker 02 I like that. Makes a lot of sense. Now, what about career transitions? A lot of experienced professionals want to make a change. But it can feel daunting.
13:37 Speaker 03 I understand. It's like starting from scratch. But it is possible, and it can be really rewarding.
13:43 Speaker 02 So where do you even start?
13:44 Speaker 03 Start by figuring out your transferable skills. The things you've learned in your past roles that can be used in a different field. And network. Talk to people in that industry.
13:53 Speaker 02 So go into events and things like?
13:55 Speaker 03 Yeah. And informational interviews. The more you learn, the better prepared you'll be.
13:59 Speaker 02 It's like anything else, the more you know, the better.
14:01 Speaker 03 Exactly. And be realistic. You might have to start at a lower level than you're used to.
14:05 Speaker 02 That's okay. It's a chance to start fresh and build your credibility in that new field.
14:09 Speaker 03 That's the right attitude. You know what else can make a big difference in your job search? Personal branding.
14:15 Speaker 02 Personal branding. What's that exactly?
14:17 Speaker 03 It's about creating a clear, consistent message about you. Who you are, what you do, what you stand for. It's your professional reputation.
14:25 Speaker 02 Makes sense.
14:26 Speaker 03 And nowadays, your online presence is super important. So create a professional website, a good LinkedIn profile. Share content that shows what you know.
14:35 Speaker 02 Kind of like becoming a thought leader in your industry.
14:38 Speaker 03 Exactly. And network online. Join those industry groups and participate in discussions. The more visible you are, the more likely you are to be found by the right people. All right, let's wrap up this section with something that's essential for success in your job search. Mindset.
14:55 Speaker 02 So like staying positive.
14:57 Speaker 03 Yeah. Believing in yourself, being persistent, don't give up. Job searching can be discouraging, especially when you're facing rejection.
15:04 Speaker 02 That's for sure.
15:04 Speaker 03 But remember, this is your career and you have the power to make it what you want.
15:09 Speaker 02 I like that a lot. Okay, so in this part, we've covered power stories and thank you notes, negotiation, ageism, and career transitions. Wow, it's a lot to take in.
15:18 Speaker 03 It is, but the main takeaway here is this. Job searching is a process. It takes time, it takes effort, and it takes strategy. But if you have the right attitude and the right tools, you can definitely get that dream job.
15:32 Speaker 02 And stay tuned for part three of our deep dive, where we'll cover even more tips and strategies for rocking your job search in 2025. Welcome back to the deep dive. We're wrapping up our job search deep dive today, and we've saved some of the best stuff for last.
15:49 Speaker 03 We've talked about a lot of great strategies already, but now we're going to get even more specific. How to fine tune your approach for different industries and how to stay motivated when things get tough.
15:59 Speaker 02 Because let's be real, job searching can be a real roller coaster.
16:03 Speaker 03 It really can. It's not enough to just have a perfect resume and ace those interviews. You need the right mindset. You got to be resilient to handle all the ups and downs.
16:11 Speaker 02 Okay, so let's talk about those different industries. What works in tech might not work in healthcare or finance, right?
16:16 Speaker 03 Yeah, you're right. Every industry has its own culture, its own way of doing things. You got to speak their language, show them you understand their world.
16:23 Speaker 02 So how do you do that?
16:24 Speaker 03 Research. Talk to people who work in that industry, read their publications, go to their events, you know, really immerse yourself. Pay attention to the trends, the challenges, even the words they use.
16:35 Speaker 02 So basically do your homework.
16:37 Speaker 03 Exactly. Don't just scratch the surface. Like, let's say you're switching from a corporate job to a startup. You need to show them you can handle that fast paced, you know, entrepreneurial environment. Things change quickly.
16:49 Speaker 02 You got to be flexible and willing to do a bit of everything.
16:52 Speaker 03 Right. And when you're in those interviews, be ready to talk about why you're passionate about the company's mission. Show them you understand the startup world, that you're not just looking for any job, you want to make a real difference.
17:03 Speaker 02 Okay, that makes a lot of sense. Now, let's talk about staying motivated. It can be so draining, especially when you're facing rejection or it feels like you're not getting anywhere. Any tips on how to stay positive and focused?
17:16 Speaker 03 Remember your why. Why are you looking for a new job? What are your goals? What gets you excited?
17:22 Speaker 02 So, connect back to the bigger picture. Your purpose.
17:26 Speaker 03 Exactly. When you know why you're doing this, it's easier to push through those tough times.
17:31 Speaker 02 And I'm guessing it's important to set realistic expectations, too.
17:34 Speaker 03 Oh, yeah. Don't expect to land your dream job right away. Break down your job search into smaller steps and celebrate those little wins along the way.
17:44 Speaker 02 That's a good point. It's easy to get overwhelmed if you're only focused on the end goal.
17:48 Speaker 03 Right. And take breaks when you need them. Burnout is real and it can really sabotage your job search.
17:53 Speaker 02 It's like a marathon. Gotta pace yourself, take care of yourself, too.
17:57 Speaker 03 Exactly. Get enough sleep, eat healthy, exercise. It might not seem directly related, but when you take care of your body, your mind is sharper, too. You'll be more resilient.
18:08 Speaker 02 So, it's about more than just resumes and applications. It's about taking a holistic approach to your job search.
18:14 Speaker 03 I like that. Holistic. And don't forget your support system. Talk to your friends, your family, a career coach. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, people who can give you a boost when you need it.
18:25 Speaker 02 Yeah, sometimes you just need someone to talk to. Now, I want to touch on something that's becoming more and more important. Continuous learning.
18:32 Speaker 03 Super important. The job market is constantly changing. If you want to stay ahead, you have to keep learning.
18:38 Speaker 02 So, how do we make sure we don't fall behind?
18:40 Speaker 03 Invest in yourself. Take online courses, go to workshops, read books and articles about your field. This is how you learn new skills and stay up to date. And it shows employers that you're serious about growing and developing.
18:52 Speaker 02 With a win-win. Okay, as we wrap up this job search deep dive, what's the one thing you want our listeners to remember?
19:00 Speaker 03 Job searching is not about luck. It's about strategy, preparation, and having a proactive attitude. Follow these tips and you'll be able to navigate the job market with confidence. You can land that dream job.
19:11 Speaker 02 And remember, the most important thing is to believe in yourself. Never give up on your goals. Thanks for joining us for the deep dive. We hope you learned a lot and feel ready to tackle your job search. Until next time, keep learning, keep growing, and keep diving deep.
19:27 Speaker 00 UKG is the workforce operating platform with unified HR, payroll, and workforce management. Built to solve the unique challenges of frontline work. Powered by People First AI and decades of labor data, UKG turns workforce intelligence into real-time decisions around staffing, pay, compliance, and productivity, enabling every worker to confidently take action as work happens. Because when work works, everything works. Learn more at ukg.com/work. UKG: HR, Pay, and Workforce Management.
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