Play to Win: Avoid This Common Job Search Foul (July 31, 2025)

 The number one mistake job seekers make — especially experienced professionals — is failing to tailor their approach to each opportunity.

Here's what that looks like:

• Sending the same generic resume or cover letter to every job.

• Using vague language that doesn’t align with the specific needs or mission of the athletic department or institution.

• Not researching the culture, priorities, or challenges of the program they're applying to.

• Focusing too much on what they want, instead of how they can solve problems for the employer.

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Why it hurts:

Hiring managers, especially in college athletics, are looking for people who understand their environment and can jump in with a purpose. If your application feels “copy-pasted,” it suggests you don’t fully understand (or care about) the role or institution.

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What to do instead:

✅ Customize your resume and cover letter with the department’s mission or pain points in mind
✅ Mirror the language used in the job description
✅ Show specific value — e.g., “led a strategic comms plan that increased student-athlete media coverage by 45%”
✅ Do your homework on the school, division level, and conference

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🔑 Tailored applications = interviews.
Generic applications = silence.

Want help tailoring a resume or message for a specific job? Just send it over — I can help.

Refining Your Brand as a Job Seeker (July 30, 2025)

Great question — refining your personal brand means taking intentional steps to clarify, shape, and communicate how you want to be known professionally. In the context of college athletics, it’s about aligning your experience, strengths, and values with the story you're telling to others — especially hiring decision-makers.

Here’s how to do it, step by step:

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🔍 1. Know What You Stand For

Ask yourself:

• What do I do best? (e.g., media relations, crisis comms, student-athlete mentorship, DEI, strategic planning)

• What am I passionate about in athletics?

• What kind of leader or teammate am I?

This becomes your core message — your "why" and "how."

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🧰 2. Align Your Materials

Your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn should all reflect the same themes:

• Use consistent language about your strengths (e.g., “relationship-builder,” “data-driven strategist,” “student-first mindset”)

• Include quantifiable achievements and leadership stories

• Update your LinkedIn headline and summary to clearly state who you are and what you offer (not just your job title)

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📣 3. Show Up Consistently Online

Refining your brand also means demonstrating it:

• Share posts or comment on relevant topics in college athletics

• Highlight wins from your career or insights from your experience

• Engage with others in the field to stay visible and relevant

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🤝 4. Live Your Brand in Conversations

Whether networking or interviewing, reinforce your brand by:

• Telling stories that highlight your values and impact

• Explaining how your experience solves the problems departments are facing (limited resources, student engagement, digital presence, etc.)

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🎯 In Short:

Your personal brand is the reputation you build intentionally — it's what people remember about you when you're not in the room.

Refining it means making sure every interaction, document, and post reflects the leader, professional, and teammate you want to be seen as.

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Want help crafting your personal brand statement or refining your LinkedIn profile? I’d be happy to help.

🎯 How Experienced Professionals Can Land Their Next Role in College Athletics (July 29, 2025)

Whether you're actively looking or just exploring, here’s a focused roadmap for seasoned pros in the athletics space:

1. Refine Your Personal Brand
Know what you bring to the table—years of leadership, crisis management, media relations, student-athlete development, digital strategy, or DEI initiatives. Make sure your resume, LinkedIn, and cover letter reflect that clearly and concisely.

2. Tap Your Existing Network
College athletics is relationship-driven. Quietly reach out to ADs, commissioners, coaches, and SIDs you've worked with. Ask for insights, referrals, or a heads-up on openings—not just jobs. Use platforms like NACDA, CoSIDA, or D3.ticker as networking entry points.

3. Be Strategic in Your Applications
Focus on roles that align with your skill set and career goals—don’t mass apply. Tailor every application to reflect how you’ll support student-athletes, align with campus culture, and enhance the department’s mission.

4. Get Visible on LinkedIn
Most athletic departments and conferences now check LinkedIn. Share updates, articles, and reflections on your experiences in the industry. It positions you as a thought leader and keeps you on radar.

5. Consider Adjacent Opportunities
Athletic departments value professionals with cross-campus experience. Consider roles in student affairs, compliance, advancement, or conference offices that align with your skills—even if they aren’t titled "Athletic Director" or "SID."

6. Stay Informed and Stay Ready
Use resources like NCAA Market, CoSIDA Career Center, HigherEdJobs, and D1/D2/D3.ticker. Even if the right job isn’t posted yet, being ready with materials, references, and clarity will help you move quickly when it does.

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💬 Want help revamping your materials or planning your outreach? I’m happy to help — just ask.

Using TikTok as a Job Seeker (July 28, 2025)

 Using TikTok as a job seeker can be a creative and effective way to showcase your skills and connect with potential employers. Here's how you can leverage the platform:

1. Create a Professional Presence:

• Establish your personal brand: Curate your profile with a professional photo and an "about me" section that highlights your career goals.

• Link to other professional platforms: Include links to your LinkedIn profile or other relevant social media accounts.

2. Showcase Your Skills Creatively (Video Resumes):

• Produce short videos: Create engaging, concise videos (around 60 seconds) that demonstrate your skills, experience, and creativity.

• Highlight your work: If you're in a creative field (e.g., graphic design), use time-lapse videos or quick demonstrations of your projects.

• Use #TikTokResumes: This hashtag was part of a past pilot program but is still used by job seekers to make their video resumes discoverable.

• Tailor your content: Customize your videos to fit the specific jobs or industries you're targeting.

3. Engage with the Industry:

• Follow industry leaders, companies, and career coaches: Stay updated on trends and job postings.

• Join conversations: Participate in discussions using relevant hashtags like #JobSearch, #NowHiring, #CareerTok, #WorkLife, and #HireMe.

• Interact with content: Like, comment on, and share posts from companies and professionals in your field to increase your visibility.

4. Be Mindful of Your Content:

• Clean up public-facing content: Recruiters often check social media, so ensure your public profile is professional.

• Maintain professionalism: Even in a "fun" format, avoid ranting about past jobs or bosses, and be mindful of mixing personal and professional content without clear boundaries.

5. Explore Job Opportunities:

• Look for recruiters and companies posting jobs: Many recruiters and companies are using TikTok to advertise openings and showcase their workplace culture.

• Direct messaging: If appropriate, you can reach out to potential employers directly through messages, introducing yourself and your qualifications.

By being intentional and creative, TikTok can be a valuable addition to your job search strategy.

Using Facebook as a Job Seeker (July 25, 2025)

Continuing with using social media as a job seeker, today, I visit on how to use Facebook as a job seeker. Using Facebook as a job seeker can be surprisingly effective—if approached strategically. Here’s how to make the most of it:

✅ What to Do:

1. Update Your Profile (Professionally):
   Make sure your public info (profile photo, bio, work/education) reflects your current goals. Even if you're not using Facebook for direct job searching, recruiters may still check it.

2. Clean Up Your Content:
   Review your timeline and privacy settings. Remove or hide anything that might hurt your professional image.

3. Follow Relevant Pages and Groups:
   Join Facebook Groups related to your industry, job boards, or professional interests. Many local or niche groups post jobs and networking opportunities.

4. Engage in Groups:
   Ask questions, share insights, or comment on posts. Active participation can increase your visibility and connections.

5. Network Softly:
   You can reach out to former classmates, coworkers, or mutual connections through Messenger to ask for advice, leads, or informational interviews.

6. Use Facebook Jobs:
   Check out the Facebook Jobs section (if available in your area). Some companies still post there, especially local or small businesses.

7. Post Your Intentions (Tactfully):
   Let your network know you’re exploring new opportunities. A well-written, upbeat post can lead to referrals or messages from people who want to help.

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🚫 What to Avoid:

• Ranting about past jobs or employers.
  Keep your tone positive or neutral. Venting can be a red flag to potential connections.

• Oversharing personal content.
  Use privacy settings to limit who sees personal posts. Maintain a balance between personality and professionalism.

• Ignoring privacy settings.
  Make sure your public posts are appropriate for recruiters or hiring managers who may look you up.

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Pro Tip:
Even if Facebook isn’t your primary job search tool, it’s part of your digital footprint. Treat it like a secondary resume—someone might look before calling you in for an interview.

Using Instagram as a Job Seeker (July 25, 2025)

 Using Instagram as a job seeker can be powerful—especially in creative, lifestyle, sports, and marketing-related fields—if you treat it as part of your personal brand. Here’s how to use it effectively:

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✅ What to Do:

1. Audit Your Profile:

   • Use a clear, professional (but approachable) profile photo.

   • Your bio should reflect your interests or goals (e.g., “Aspiring sports marketer | Passionate about storytelling & branding”).

   • Include a link to your LinkedIn, portfolio, or resume site.

2. Share Your Journey:

   • Post about your job search milestones, projects, passion work, or professional wins.

   • Share behind-the-scenes looks at volunteer work, internships, or learning experiences.

   • Use Stories or Highlights to showcase skills or ongoing efforts (like job hunting tips or interviews).

3. Engage with Relevant Accounts:

   • Follow industry leaders, brands, and companies you admire.

   • Comment thoughtfully and reshare meaningful content to show you're active and informed.

   • Like and engage with recruiters or hiring accounts (some post job openings in stories).

4. Use Hashtags Wisely:

   • Try: #JobSearch, #CareerTips, #NowHiring, #MarketingJobs, #SportsBiz, or industry-specific tags.

   • These can help you discover opportunities or be discovered yourself.

5. Post Your Work:

   • Especially useful for creatives, marketers, and communicators.

   • Showcase writing, design, campaigns, videos, or media appearances.

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🚫 What to Avoid:

• Overposting personal or unprofessional content.
  Even if your profile isn’t public, employers might find tagged photos or posts.

• Mixing signals.
  If you’re using Instagram professionally, keep tone and imagery aligned with your brand—no rants, risky humor, or careless posts.

• Neglecting consistency.
  If your Instagram is part of your job search strategy, make sure your messaging matches across LinkedIn, your resume, and other platforms.

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💡 Pro Tip:

Consider running two accounts—one personal (private) and one public/professional—if you're in a highly visual or networking-driven field like media, design, fashion, sports, or entertainment.

Let me know if you'd like Instagram bio examples tailored to your field or tips for using Reels in your job search!

Using Twitter/X as a Job Seeker (July 24, 2025)

 While LinkedIn remains the powerhouse for professional networking and job searching, Twitter/X can be a surprisingly effective complementary tool, especially for certain industries (like tech, media, marketing, and startups) and for demonstrating thought leadership. Here's how to use Twitter/X as a job seeker:

1. Optimize Your Profile for Professionalism & Discoverability:

• Professional Handle & Display Name: Choose a handle that's professional and easy to remember (e.g., @YourNameJobSearch or @YourIndustryExpert). Use your real name as your display name.

• Professional Profile Photo: Use a clear, professional headshot. Consistency with your LinkedIn photo is a good idea for personal branding.

• Keyword-Rich Bio: Your bio is crucial. Use relevant keywords that hiring managers and recruiters might search for (e.g., "Digital Marketing Specialist | SEO & Content Strategy | #TechJobs #MarketingJobs"). Include your location if you're targeting local roles.

• Link to Your Professional Portfolio: Include a link to your LinkedIn profile, personal website, online portfolio, or resume (if it's hosted online).

• Enable DMs from Anyone: Go to your privacy settings and ensure "Allow message requests from anyone" is checked. This allows recruiters and potential employers to contact you directly.

• Pinned Tweet: Pin a tweet that highlights your expertise, a recent project, a link to your portfolio, or a brief statement about the type of roles you're seeking.

2. Strategic Following and Network Building:

• Follow Target Companies: Follow companies you're interested in working for. Many companies post job openings, company news, and insights into their culture on Twitter/X.

• Follow Industry Influencers & Thought Leaders: Stay updated on industry trends, news, and discussions. Engaging with their content can increase your visibility.

• Follow Recruiters & Hiring Managers: Many recruiters and hiring managers are active on Twitter/X and often share job openings or insights into their hiring processes. Search for "recruiter [your industry]" or "hiring manager [company name]".

• Follow Job Boards and Niche Accounts: There are many Twitter/X accounts dedicated to posting job openings using specific hashtags (e.g., @TechJobs, @RemoteJobs).

• Create Twitter/X Lists: Organize the accounts you follow into private lists (e.g., "Target Companies," "Recruiters," "Industry News"). This helps you quickly monitor specific streams without cluttering your main feed.

3. Active Engagement and Content Strategy:

• Engage Meaningfully: Don't just lurk. Respond thoughtfully to relevant tweets from companies, industry leaders, and recruiters. Share your insights, ask intelligent questions, and add value to conversations.

• Share Relevant Content: Retweet articles, news, or resources related to your industry, adding your own concise commentary. This positions you as knowledgeable and engaged.

• Post Your Own Insights: Share short thoughts, observations, or questions about your field. This demonstrates your expertise and passion. Consider using the 70-20-10 rule: 70% professional insights, 20% industry news/commentary, and 10% appropriate personal content.

• Participate in Twitter/X Spaces & Chats: Join live audio conversations or scheduled text-based chats relevant to your industry. This is a great way to network, learn, and showcase your communication skills.

• Use Relevant Hashtags Strategically: Hashtags are critical for discoverability.

  • Job-specific hashtags: #jobs, #hiring, #jobsearch, #remotework, #[city]jobs (e.g., #NYCjobs).

  • Industry-specific hashtags: #TechJobs, #MarketingJobs, #SoftwareDev, #FinTech.

  • Company-specific hashtags: Some companies use unique hashtags when recruiting.

  • Don't overdo it – 2-3 relevant hashtags per tweet is usually sufficient.

• Showcase Your Work (Visually if possible): If your field is visual (e.g., design, marketing, writing), share snippets or links to your work. Tweets with images and videos tend to get more engagement.

4. Direct Job Searching Features:

• X Hiring Tab: X now has a dedicated "Jobs" tab. Click on "More" in the left-hand menu, then "Jobs." You can search by keywords and location, and some listings have direct application links.

• Advanced Search: Use Twitter/X's advanced search functionality to refine your job searches. You can search by:

  • Keywords ("we're hiring," "job opening," "looking for")

  • Exact phrases (using quotes, e.g., "project manager")

  • Words to exclude (using a minus sign, e.g., "developer -senior")

  • Accounts (from:@[companyhandle])

  • Hashtags

  • Dates

• "We're Hiring" Searches: Search for phrases like "we're hiring [your industry]" or "join our team [your skill]" to uncover less formally posted opportunities.

5. Building Relationships & Making a Direct Impact:

• Direct Engagement with Companies/Recruiters: If you see a job posted by a company or recruiter you follow, don't be afraid to reply to their tweet with a thoughtful comment or question. Avoid generic "I'm interested" replies.

• Polite DMs: If you have a legitimate, concise question or a strong reason to connect after building some rapport, a polite direct message to a recruiter or hiring manager can be effective.

• Research for Interviews: Before an interview, check the Twitter/X profiles of the interviewers or the company. This can provide insights into their interests, recent projects, and company culture, helping you tailor your responses and questions.

Important Considerations for Twitter/X:

• Maintain Professionalism: Remember that everything you tweet is public. Avoid controversial topics, excessive personal sharing, or anything that could negatively impact your professional image.

• Consistency: Regular, thoughtful engagement is more effective than sporadic bursts of activity.

• It's a Complement, Not a Replacement: Twitter/X is best used in conjunction with LinkedIn and traditional job boards. It's a powerful tool for networking and uncovering "hidden" opportunities, but it might not be the primary source of applications for all industries.

By strategically curating your profile, engaging with relevant content, and actively searching, Twitter/X can become a valuable asset in your job search arsenal.

Using LinkedIn as a Job Seeker (July 24, 2025)

 LinkedIn is an indispensable tool for job seekers, offering much more than just a place to upload your resume. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to leverage it effectively:

1. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile: Your Digital Resume & Personal Brand

• Professional Photo and Banner: Use a high-quality, professional headshot with good lighting. Consider a professional banner that reflects your industry or personal brand.

• Compelling Headline: Don't just list your current job title. Craft a headline that clearly states who you are, what you do, and the value you bring. Include relevant keywords for your target roles (e.g., "Senior Marketing Manager | SaaS Product Growth | Driving Customer Acquisition").

• Keyword-Rich "About" Section (Summary): This is your elevator pitch. Tell your career story, highlighting significant achievements, key skills, and career aspirations. Incorporate keywords from job descriptions you're targeting to improve search visibility.

• Detailed Experience Section: Go beyond job titles and dates. Describe your roles, responsibilities, and, most importantly, your quantifiable accomplishments (e.g., "Increased sales by 15%," "Managed a team of 5"). Use keywords relevant to your field.

• Skills & Endorsements: List all relevant hard and soft skills. Encourage colleagues and connections to endorse your skills. LinkedIn's algorithm prioritizes profiles with relevant skills.

• Education, Licenses, and Certifications: Fill out these sections thoroughly. If you've completed LinkedIn Learning courses, you can add those badges to your profile.

• Featured Section: Showcase your best work, such as articles, presentations, projects, or publications. This acts as a digital portfolio.

• Custom URL: Change your automatically generated URL to a clean, professional one (e.g., linkedin.com/in/yourname). This looks better on resumes and is easier to share.

• "Open to Work" Status: Discreetly signal to recruiters that you're available for opportunities. You can choose to make this visible only to recruiters or to all LinkedIn members.

2. Strategic Networking and Engagement:

• Connect Strategically: Don't just send generic connection requests. Personalize your messages, mentioning how you know them, why you're interested in connecting, or a shared interest. Prioritize quality over quantity.

• Expand Your Network: Connect with:

  • Former colleagues, managers, and classmates.

  • People in your target industry or roles.

  • Recruiters and hiring managers at companies you're interested in.

  • Industry influencers and thought leaders.

• Join Relevant Groups: Participate in LinkedIn groups related to your industry or profession. This is an excellent way to connect with like-minded individuals, learn about industry trends, and discover opportunities. Engage in discussions and share your expertise.

• Engage with Content:

  • Comment on posts: Share thoughtful insights and opinions on relevant articles and posts from industry peers and companies. This increases your visibility and demonstrates your knowledge.

  • Share relevant content: Repost articles, news, or insights that are valuable to your network, adding your own commentary.

  • Post your own updates: Share what you're learning, doing, or thinking in your field. This positions you as a thought leader and keeps your profile active.

• Follow Companies: Follow companies you're interested in to stay updated on their news, job openings, and company culture. You can also identify recruiters and employees within those companies to connect with.

• Informational Interviews: Reach out to people in roles or companies you're interested in for informational interviews. This is a great way to learn about their experiences and expand your network.

3. Leverage LinkedIn's Job Search Features:

• LinkedIn Jobs Board: Utilize the dedicated "Jobs" tab to search for positions. Use filters like "Date Posted," "Experience Level," "Under 10 Applicants," and location to refine your search.

• Job Alerts: Set up job alerts for specific job titles, industries, locations, and companies. This ensures you're notified as soon as new opportunities matching your criteria are posted.

• "Easy Apply" Feature: This feature allows you to apply for jobs directly through LinkedIn, often without needing to upload a separate resume and cover letter.

• Skills Assessments: Take LinkedIn's skills assessments to demonstrate your proficiency in various areas. Displaying your results on your profile can make you stand out.

• Interview Preparation: LinkedIn offers tools to help you prepare for interviews, including common interview questions and AI-powered feedback on your practice responses.

• Research Companies and People: Before applying, use LinkedIn to research the company culture, recent news, and key employees. If you have connections at a target company, reach out to them for insights or potential referrals.

• LinkedIn Premium Career: Consider a Premium subscription for additional benefits like:

  • "Top applicant" insights (identifying jobs where you're a strong candidate).

  • InMail credits to message people outside your network (including hiring managers).

  • "Who's viewed your profile" insights.

  • Access to LinkedIn Learning courses for skill development.

Key Principles for Job Seeking on LinkedIn:

• Be Proactive: Don't just wait for opportunities to come to you. Actively engage, network, and search.

• Be Consistent: Regular activity on LinkedIn, even short bursts of engagement, can significantly boost your visibility.

• Be Professional: Maintain a professional tone and image in all your interactions.

• Tailor Everything: Customize your profile, connection requests, and messages to be relevant to your target roles and industries.

• Quantify Your Achievements: Wherever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate the impact of your work.

By following these strategies, you can effectively use LinkedIn to increase your visibility, expand your network, and ultimately land your next job.

Using Social Media as a Job Seeker (July 23, 2025)

Using social media effectively as a job seeker can open doors to opportunities, build your professional reputation, and grow your network — if done intentionally. In the coming days, I'll do a further exploration of the various platforms with explorations on LinkedIn and Twitter (X) on Thursday, July 24, Facebook and Instagram on Friday, July 25 and TikTok on Monday, July 28.

Networking Outside Your Industry (July 22, 2025)

Networking outside your industry can lead to fresh ideas, unexpected job leads, and broader career resilience. Here are some smart strategies to do it effectively:

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🔄 Tips for Networking Outside Your Industry

1. Clarify Your Why

• Are you exploring a career pivot?

• Looking for inspiration or mentorship?

• Trying to break into a new field?

📌 Knowing your purpose helps you target the right people and ask better questions.

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2. Find Common Ground

• Shared alma mater, location, interests, mutual connections

• Volunteer groups, professional associations, or cross-functional teams

📌 Lead with what you have in common, not what you lack in experience.

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3. Leverage LinkedIn Filters

• Use job titles or industries outside your own

• Search alumni from your college who’ve made similar transitions

• Connect with people at companies you're interested in, even if the industry is new

📌 Send a short, personalized message explaining why you’re reaching out.

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4. Attend Cross-Industry Events

• Look for panels, workshops, or webinars on leadership, tech, DEI, or innovation (topics that span industries)

• Go to networking events hosted by general professional organizations or community groups

📌 These offer “neutral ground” to meet diverse professionals.

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5. Ask Smart, Curious Questions

• “What drew you to your field?”

• “What do you think someone from outside your industry might bring to the table?”

• “What are some challenges your industry faces right now?”

📌 Show interest and openness to learn — don’t try to impress, try to connect.

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6. Offer a Fresh Perspective

• Share how your background could translate or add value

• Highlight transferable skills (communication, leadership, project management, analytics, etc.)

📌 Frame your “outsider” status as a strength.

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7. Follow Up Thoughtfully

• Share a resource, thank them for their time, or update them on how their advice helped

• Stay connected — relationships across industries can grow over time

📌 Consistency builds credibility.

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Networking for Job Seekers 102 (July 21, 2025)

Here’s a guide to advanced networking strategies for job seekers who already understand the basics and want to go deeper to stand out, build influence, and access hidden opportunities.

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🚀 Advanced Networking for Job Seekers

1. Go Beyond “Just Reaching Out”

Instead of simply asking for a chat, offer value:

• Share a relevant article or event invite

• Compliment specific work (“I enjoyed your piece on…”)

• Ask for insights on something specific (“What trends are you seeing in ___?”)

➡️ Shift from transactional to relational.

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2. Build a Personal Brand

Let people come to you by establishing yourself as a knowledgeable, helpful voice in your field.

• Post weekly on LinkedIn (insights, stories, takeaways)

• Comment intelligently on industry posts

• Create a personal website or portfolio (even a Notion page works)

➡️ Be visible in the spaces where your industry gathers.

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3. Leverage “Second-Degree” Connections

The magic often happens just outside your immediate circle:

• Ask trusted contacts for introductions (“Do you know anyone at ___?”)

• Use LinkedIn filters to find alumni or company connections

• After informational interviews, ask, “Is there someone else you think I should connect with?”

➡️ Warm intros are the gold standard.

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4. Join Niche Communities

Find Slack groups, Discord servers, LinkedIn groups, or professional associations specific to your industry.

• Participate in discussions

• Attend virtual or in-person meetups

• Volunteer or contribute (host an event, moderate a panel)

➡️ Smaller communities = deeper relationships.

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5. Treat Informational Interviews Like Gold

• Do thorough research beforehand

• Ask questions they’ll enjoy answering (career stories, challenges)

• Follow up meaningfully — months later, send an update or thank-you if their advice helped

➡️ People remember follow-through more than follow-up.

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6. Host Your Own Conversations

Take initiative:

• Start a small Zoom roundtable with peers

• Write a LinkedIn post inviting others to share their experiences

• Interview professionals for a blog or podcast (even a short series)

➡️ Networking as the organizer builds credibility.

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7. Network With Recruiters (Strategically)

• Engage with recruiter content on LinkedIn

• Send a brief, tailored intro message (include your résumé/portfolio link)

• Ask how they prefer to be contacted and what roles they typically hire for

➡️ Respect their time and tailor your outreach.

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🧠 Bonus Pro Tips

• Maintain a networking tracker (e.g., Notion, spreadsheet, CRM)

• Schedule 1–2 networking activities weekly — build the habit

• Keep long-term relationships warm (birthday message, promotion congrats, etc.)

Networking for Job Seekers 101 (July 18, 2025)

For the blog, I am going to transition into another topic - networking. Here’s a simple guide to the basics of networking for job seekers, especially helpful if you’re just starting out or trying to be more intentional with your connections:

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🔗 What Is Networking?

Networking is building and maintaining relationships with people who can share information, advice, and opportunities. It’s not about asking for a job — it’s about building trust and exchanging value.

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👣 Basic Steps to Start Networking

1. Clarify Your Goals

• What industry or role are you targeting?

• Are you looking to learn, get referrals, or find mentors?

2. Start with Who You Know

• Friends, classmates, professors, past coworkers, family

• Let them know what you’re looking for and ask for guidance or introductions

3. Use LinkedIn Effectively

• Have a strong, updated profile

• Connect with classmates, coworkers, and people in your target field

• Follow companies and engage with posts

4. Reach Out Thoughtfully

• Keep it short and respectful

• Mention shared interests or connections

• Example:
  “Hi Jordan, I’m exploring roles in sports marketing and saw you’ve worked in that space. I’d love to hear about your experience if you’re open to a quick conversation.”

5. Attend Events (Even Virtual Ones)

• Industry meetups, alumni panels, professional association events

• Always follow up with people you meet

6. Ask Great Questions

• “What do you enjoy about your role?”

• “How did you get started in this industry?”

• “What advice would you give to someone trying to break in?”

7. Give, Don’t Just Take

• Share articles, congratulate promotions, offer help where you can

• Networking is a two-way relationship

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✅ Best Practices

• Follow up within 24–48 hours of meeting someone

• Keep a simple spreadsheet or notes on who you’ve talked to

• Stay in touch periodically (e.g., every few months)

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🚫 What Not to Do

• Don’t immediately ask for a job or referral

• Don’t send generic copy-paste messages

• Don’t disappear after one interaction — relationships take time

News Articles on Job Seeking (July 17, 2025)

  🎯 News Articles on Job Seeking

Article: Job Searching Feels Like A Full-Time Job. That’s Because It Is (Forbes, Julia Korn, July 16, 2025)

Treat your job search with the same structure and discipline you would a real job—by setting clear goals, blocking time, pacing yourself, and celebrating small wins. This approach helps maintain momentum and preserves mental well-being. Check it out here.

Want help structuring a weekly plan or breaking down tasks? I can help with that!

Best Job Seeking Tools in 2025 (July 16, 2025)

 Here’s a roundup of some of the best job-seeking tools in 2025, categorized to help you streamline every part of your job search—from finding openings to interview prep:

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🔍 Job Boards & Marketplaces

• LinkedIn – Great for job listings, networking, and company research. Use "Open to Work" and job alerts.

• Indeed – One of the largest aggregators; easy to search and apply.

• Handshake – Best for students and recent grads (used by many colleges).

• Glassdoor – Combine job listings with salary info and company reviews.

• Wellfound (formerly AngelList Talent) – Focused on startup jobs.

• FlexJobs – Curated listings for remote, hybrid, and flexible positions (paid service, but vetted).

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🛠️ Résumé & Cover Letter Tools

• Jobscan – Analyzes your résumé against job descriptions for keyword optimization.

• Zety / ResumeGenius / Novoresume – Intuitive builders for clean, professional résumés.

• Rezi – AI-enhanced résumé builder designed to pass applicant tracking systems (ATS).

• ChatGPT – Use it to brainstorm bullet points, customize your résumé for specific roles, or generate a compelling cover letter draft.

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📅 Job Search Management

• Huntr – Visual job tracker with boards to manage applications, notes, and follow-ups.

• Teal – All-in-one toolkit for job tracking, résumé tailoring, and application management.

• Airtable / Notion / Google Sheets – Customizable job search tracking tools if you prefer DIY options.

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🧠 Interview Prep Tools

• Big Interview – Practice common interview questions with video recordings and coaching.

• Interviewing.io – Anonymous mock interviews with real recruiters and engineers (great for tech).

• Voomer – AI-based tool that provides feedback on virtual interview responses.

• Prepper (by Teal) – Generates interview questions based on job postings.

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📚 Skill Building & Certifications

• LinkedIn Learning – Short, career-focused courses that also integrate with your LinkedIn profile.

• Coursera / edX – Learn from top universities and earn certificates in high-demand fields.

• Google Career Certificates / HubSpot Academy / IBM SkillsBuild – Free or low-cost industry-recognized certifications.

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💼 Portfolio & Personal Branding Tools

• Canva – Easily build a clean résumé, digital portfolio, or personal brand visuals.

• About.me / Carrd – Create a simple one-page professional website.

• GitHub / Dribbble / Behance – Showcase your work if you're in tech or design.

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🤖 AI-Powered Job Search Assistants

• Teal’s AI Assistant – Helps analyze job descriptions and write tailored content.

• ChatGPT – Your multipurpose coach for drafting outreach messages, preparing interview answers, and brainstorming career direction.

• Kickresume – AI-driven résumé, cover letter, and website creator.

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💬 Networking & Informational Interview Tools

• Lunchclub / Polywork – Platforms for connecting with professionals beyond LinkedIn.

• Calendly – Schedule informational interviews or networking calls easily.

• Alumni databases – Many colleges provide searchable alumni networks you can tap into for mentorship or advice.

Top Advice for Job Seekers in 2025 (July 15, 2025)

1. Set Clear Goals

Define what you're looking for—industry, role, location, salary range, work culture, and growth potential. A focused search is far more effective than applying to everything.

✅ Tip: Use the SMART framework to guide your goals. Read more in Monday's post.

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2. Tailor Every Application

Customize your résumé and cover letter for each role. Use keywords from the job description and highlight your most relevant achievements.

🧠 Employers spot generic applications instantly—show them you're genuinely interested.

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3. Optimize Your Online Presence

Update your LinkedIn profile. Highlight recent achievements, add a professional photo, and include keywords that match your ideal role.

🚀 Recruiters use LinkedIn like a search engine—make sure you’re discoverable.

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4. Network Intentionally

Most jobs are found through people, not postings. Connect with alumni, attend events, and reach out for informational interviews.

💬 Start with: “I admire your work at [Company]. I’d love to hear how you got started.”

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5. Use AI as a Job Search Assistant

Leverage tools like ChatGPT or résumé builders to help you brainstorm achievements, prep for interviews, or polish documents.

🤖 Don’t let AI do everything—but use it to stay sharp and save time.

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6. Prepare for Virtual Interviews

Virtual interviews are now standard. Practice on camera, ensure good lighting, and research the company beforehand.

📹 Bonus: Record yourself answering common questions to fine-tune delivery.

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7. Track Your Progress

Keep a job search spreadsheet with application dates, follow-up reminders, and interview feedback.

📊 Staying organized helps you avoid duplication—and shows you where to improve.

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8. Stay Resilient

Rejections happen—even to top candidates. Learn from each one, adjust your approach, and stay confident in your abilities.

💡 Remember: It only takes one “yes.”

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9. Keep Learning

Upskill with certifications, webinars, or short courses related to your field. Show employers you're committed to growth.

🎓 Sites like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning are great places to start.

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10. Follow Up (Politely)

After interviews, send a thoughtful thank-you email within 24 hours. It shows professionalism and keeps you top of mind.

✉️ Include a quick reminder of why you’re a great fit for the role.

The Power of Goal Setting in Your Job Search (July 14, 2025)

 Searching for a job can often feel overwhelming. Between tailoring résumés, writing cover letters, networking, and staying on top of applications, it's easy to feel lost in the process. But there’s one strategy that can bring clarity and confidence to your search: goal setting.

🎯 Why Goal Setting Matters

When you're intentional about your goals, you're no longer just looking for a job—you’re working toward one with purpose. Setting goals helps:

• Provide Direction: It’s easy to get sidetracked. Clear goals act like a roadmap, helping you focus on opportunities that align with your interests, values, and strengths.

• Measure Progress: Without milestones, it’s hard to know how far you’ve come. Setting benchmarks—like sending out five tailored applications per week or reaching out to three new contacts—lets you track success and build momentum.

• Boost Motivation: Achieving even small goals gives you a sense of accomplishment. These “wins” build confidence and help you stay motivated, even when rejections come.

• Reduce Anxiety: Structure reduces stress. When you know what you’re doing today, this week, and this month, you’re more in control and less reactive.

🛠️ Types of Job Search Goals

Not all goals are created equal. A strong job search strategy includes both short-term and long-term goals:

Short-Term Goals:

• Update your résumé and LinkedIn profile this week

• Research and apply to at least three positions per week

• Schedule informational interviews with professionals in your field

• Attend one networking event this month

Long-Term Goals:

• Land a role in your desired field within the next 3–6 months

• Build a professional brand through writing, speaking, or sharing insights

• Gain a certification or complete a course that strengthens your marketability

• Transition into a new industry or function within the next year

🧭 SMART Goals Work Best

The best goals are SMART:

• Specific – What exactly do you want to accomplish?

• Measurable – How will you know you’re making progress?

• Achievable – Is the goal realistic given your situation?

• Relevant – Does it align with your broader career aspirations?

• Time-bound – What’s your deadline?

Instead of “I want to get a job,” try:
💡 “I will apply to 4 roles in marketing communications this week and follow up with a connection at one of the companies by Friday.”

🧠 Final Thought

Goal setting transforms your job search from a reactive process to a proactive journey. It’s not just about getting a job—it’s about getting the right job, one that aligns with your goals, values, and growth potential.

So grab a notebook or open a new doc. Write down your goals, break them into actionable steps, and start checking them off. The more intentional you are, the closer you’ll get to the opportunity you’ve been working for.

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Ready to turn your job search into a strategic success? Start by setting your first goal today.

#JobSearch #CareerDevelopment #GoalSetting #ProfessionalGrowth #CareerAdvice #JobSeekerTips #SMARTRoadmap

Articles of Interest (July 11, 2025)

  🎯 Articles of Interest

Article: The Art of Professionalism (Inside HigherEd, Rhonda Sutton, July 7, 2025)

Technical skills open doors, but professionalism—expressed through Attitude, Responsibility, and Trust—creates enduring impact and reputation. Check it out here.

Leveraging AI for Smarter Networking in Your Job Search (July 10, 2025)

 In today’s job market, landing the right role isn’t just about submitting applications—it's about strategic networking. And while face-to-face connections and genuine relationship-building remain critical, AI is quietly reshaping how job seekers approach professional networking.

Whether you're looking to break into a new industry or elevate your career, here’s how AI can help you network smarter, not harder.

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🤖 1. Smarter Contact Discovery

One of the biggest challenges in networking is finding the right people to connect with. AI tools integrated into platforms like LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and Sales Navigator now help users:

• Identify professionals with similar interests or mutual connections.

• Suggest relevant people based on your career goals or job search activity.

• Highlight "open networkers" or hiring managers in your field.

Tip: Use AI-driven search filters to find alumni, industry influencers, or second-degree connections in your desired companies.

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📬 2. Personalized Outreach with AI Assistance

Gone are the days of generic “Can we connect?” messages. Tools like ChatGPT, Copy.ai, and Lavender can help craft:

• Custom intro messages

• Follow-up emails after events

• Thank-you notes after informational interviews

Just feed the tool a few key details—like the person’s background or a shared interest—and let it help you craft something meaningful. Just remember: edit to sound like you. AI is a tool, not a substitute for authenticity.

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🗓️ 3. Managing and Nurturing Connections

AI-powered CRMs (Customer Relationship Management tools) like Clay, Dex, or Folk help job seekers:

• Track who they’ve met or contacted

• Set reminders to follow up

• Get suggestions on when to reconnect based on activity or shared news

Networking isn’t a one-time act—it’s a long-term investment. AI can help keep your relationships active, not transactional.

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📡 4. Staying Informed and Relevant

AI tools can also help you stay in the know about your network:

• Get alerts when someone changes jobs, publishes content, or is mentioned in the news.

• Receive digest emails summarizing updates from your connections.

These insights create natural touchpoints to reach out and reconnect—with a personalized note that shows you’re paying attention.

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🧠 5. Practicing Networking Conversations

For introverts or those re-entering the workforce, even the idea of networking can be intimidating. AI tools like ChatGPT or Interview Warmup (from Google) can simulate:

• Informational interview scenarios

• Elevator pitches

• Common networking questions

Practicing with an AI “coach” can reduce anxiety and boost confidence before the real thing.

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🔑 The Bottom Line

AI won’t replace human connection—but it can remove friction, make outreach smarter, and free up time to focus on building real relationships. If used thoughtfully, it becomes a quiet ally in your networking strategy—helping you stand out not just for what you know, but for who you know and how you connect.

As you rethink your job search this year, consider adding a few AI-powered tools to your networking toolkit. The future of work is human—but augmented by smart technology.

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Have you tried using AI for networking? What tools or strategies have helped you most? Share in the comments or message me—I'd love to learn from your experience.