Are you SET - Strategic | Engaged | Teamwork?: August 2025

Friday, August 29, 2025

Top 10 Trends for Inexperienced or Entry-level Job Seekers in 2025 (August 29, 2025)

As I wrap up the first month of trying to post on a regular basis, I have been working on a pair of top 10 lists. Today's edition is for the inexperienced or entry-level job seeker. Here are the top 10 trends for inexperienced or entry-level job seekers in 2025, based on the most recent insights:

1. AI-Driven Screening and Over-Automation

Entry-level applicants face heavy automation: AI tools and applicant tracking systems (ATS) filter many resumes before human eyes ever see them. Overly AI-generated applications are increasingly noticeable and can even be a red flag.
CT InsiderThe TimesThe WeekForbes

2. Networking & Adaptability Are Game-Changers

With competition rising, leveraging alumni, internships, mentors, and LinkedIn connections—combined with flexibility in roles and industries—can open doors that standard applications cannot.
AP NewsThe TimesReddit

3. Rising Importance of Soft Skills

Soft skills like communication, adaptability, creativity, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence are in greater demand, often outweighing academic pedigree.
CNBCThe Interview GuysThe Times

4. Skills-Based Hiring & Real-World Credentials

Employers increasingly prioritize demonstrable skills—via certifications, microcredentials, portfolios, or even skills tests—over traditional degrees.
LinkedInblog.cvformatter.coarXiv

5. Digital Literacy Is Essential

Even in non-technical fields, basic digital skills—like data analysis (e.g. Excel, SQL), familiarity with automation tools, and digital communication platforms—can make or break your candidacy.
lookingforresume.comLinkedInThe Interview Guys

6. Remote and Hybrid Roles Drive Expectations

Flexible work arrangements are mainstream now. Employers value time management, self-direction, familiarity with virtual collaboration tools, and remote work discipline.
ForbesLinkedIn+1AP News

7. Apprenticeships & Skilled Trades as Viable Pathways

With many white-collar entry roles vanishing, trades and apprenticeship programs are seeing increased interest—often offering paid training, quicker earnings, and less automation risk.
SFGATE

8. Underemployment, Job Market Volatility & Mental Health Pressures

Entry-level job listings are down (e.g., 15% drop in Connecticut) even as applications surge; underemployment and mental health challenges are rising in parallel. Economic downturns also disproportionately affect those with less experience.
CT InsiderThe Times of India

9. Pivot Strategies: Gig, Freelance Work, and Side Projects

Many job seekers are embracing freelance platforms, side hustles, or personal projects to build skills, generate income, and stand out in dense applicant pools.
ForbesBusiness InsiderNew York Post

10. Strategic Applications & Strong Personal Branding

Mass applications no longer work. Instead, targeted resumes, clear accomplishment evidence, storytelling, quantifiable results, and tailored messaging matter—along with a polished online presence.

Thursday, August 28, 2025

Top 10 Trends for Experienced Job Seekers in 2025 (August 28, 2025)

As I wrap up the first month of trying to post on a regular basis, I have been working on a pair of top 10 lists. Today's edition is for the experienced or entry-level job seeker. Here are the top 10 trends for experienced job seekers in 2025, synthesizing insights from the most recent industry sources:

1. AI-Driven Recruitment & Applicant Tracking

Why it matters: Employers increasingly deploy AI to screen resumes, analyze video interviews, and even automate job matching. Your success depends on optimizing applications for both machines and humans—think keyword-rich, clearly formatted, and authentic content.

2. Skills-Based Hiring Over Traditional Degrees

Employers are shifting focus to practical abilities, certifications, and demonstrable experience. Itemizing key skills, projects, or microcredentials can make you a standout candidate.

3. Remote & Hybrid Flexibility

Hybrid models remain the norm for many companies. Showcasing digital collaboration tools, time management, and remote work achievements gives you a competitive edge.

4. Soft Skills Are Essential

While AI and automation take on technical tasks, human-centered skills like leadership, adaptability, and emotional intelligence are rising in value.

5. Personal Branding & Online Presence

Your digital footprint—especially a polished LinkedIn profile with keywords, engagement, and storytelling—is now as important as your resume.

6. Gig Economy & Freelance Opportunities

Even experienced professionals are tapping into gig platforms (Upwork, Toptal, freelance marketplaces) to offer specialized skills or side projects.

7. Purpose, Well-Being, DEI & Sustainability

More professionals are aligning with employers whose values match theirs—whether it's environmental impact, strong wellness programs, or inclusive workplace culture.

8. Upskilling, Career Cushioning & AI Literacy

Continuous learning—especially in AI, data, and emerging tech—is critical. Many professionals are quietly enhancing their marketability as a hedge against disruption (known as “career cushioning”).

9. Video Resumes & Creative Presentation Formats

Video resumes are increasingly popular—letting you convey personality, communication style, and presence in a way traditional resumes can’t.

10. Salary Transparency & Negotiation Leverage

Salary clarity is becoming widespread, giving experienced professionals better insight and confidence when negotiating total compensation—especially as hiring slows and competition intensifies.

Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Moving from One Industry to Another But Staying in the Same Field - HOW? (August 27, 2025)

I am often asked by individuals, who want to move out of one industry to another but stay doing the same kind of work. What can you do it about it. That’s a really common challenge—when someone wants to pivot industries, the biggest hurdle is helping employers see that their skills transfer even if the job titles or industries look different.

Here’s how I’d help a job seeker make that leap:

🔎 1. Identify Core Transferable Skills

Pull out skills that cut across industries (project management, communication, leadership, problem-solving, analysis, customer service, tech tools).
Focus less on where you used them, and more on what impact they had.

📝 2. Translate Industry Jargon

Avoid using language only your old industry understands.
Swap niche terms for universal ones.
- Example: Instead of “worked with athletic compliance reporting systems” → “managed regulatory reporting systems.”

💌 3. Reframe Resume & Cover Letter

Resume: Highlight accomplishments that any employer values (saved time, cut costs, improved efficiency, built teams).
Cover Letter: Tell the career change story → why you’re moving, what you bring, and how your past strengthens your future.

🎯 4. Use a Functional / Hybrid Resume if Needed

Instead of only listing jobs chronologically, group bullet points under skill categories (Leadership, Communication, Data Analysis).
Shows hiring managers you already have the skills they’re hiring for.

🌐 5. Fill Gaps with Bridge Experiences

Volunteer work, certifications, freelance projects, or side gigs can give credibility in the new industry.

🤝 6. Leverage Networking

Many pivots happen through people, not postings.
Talk with professionals in the new industry and get referrals—this reduces bias about your background.

👉 In short: Tell the story of your skills, not your industry. Employers hire problem-solvers, not job titles.

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

Correlation and Effective Communication in a Cover Letter and Resume (August 26, 2025)

Last week, I wrote about how you can transfer skills in one sector of sports to another and I thought that I would talk about how to being effective in correlation and demonstrate effective communication in your cover letter and resume as a job seeker. This is where job seekers often miss the chance to connect the dots for an employer. Here’s how you can correlate job skills between your resume and cover letter so they reinforce each other:

🔎 Step 1: Identify Core Skills from the Job Posting

Example job asks for:

Project management
Communication skills
Data analysis

📝 Step 2: Resume = Proof Points

Your resume shows what you did and what happened as a result:

Project Management → “Led a cross-functional team of 6 to deliver a new onboarding system two weeks ahead of schedule.”
Communication → “Presented monthly progress reports to executives, improving decision-making speed by 15%.”
Data Analysis → “Analyzed survey data from 2,000+ customers, leading to a 10% increase in retention.”

💌 Step 3: Cover Letter = Context + Relevance

Take those same skills, but add the why it matters and how it translates to the new role:

Project Management → “I thrive on organizing complex projects. In my last role, I led a cross-functional team to launch a new onboarding system ahead of schedule — a skill I’d apply in managing initiatives at [Company Name].”
Communication → “Clear communication is one of my strengths. By presenting data-driven updates to executives, I built trust and sped up decisions — experience I’d bring to collaborating with your leadership team.”
Data Analysis → “I enjoy turning data into action. When I analyzed survey results from 2,000+ customers, the insights directly improved retention — an approach I’d use to support your customer success goals.”

🔗 Step 4: Correlation Framework

Here’s the formula you can always follow:

Resume = Action + Result
[Skill] + [What you did] + [Impact]
Cover Letter = Story + Connection
[Skill] + [Mini story/example] + [How it applies to new role]

👉 Together, they form a consistent message: your resume proves you’ve done it and your cover letter explains why it matters for them.

Monday, August 25, 2025

Reading a Job Description as a Job Seeker (August 25, 2025)

Often times when I am asked by people about job opportunities that they come across as a job seeker that they have difficulty in understanding the job description. So I thought I would take some time to look at that part of the job seeking process. Reading a job description as a job seeker isn’t just about seeing if you “fit,” it’s about decoding what’s really important to the employer and figuring out how you can present yourself as the solution. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

🔎 1. Start with the Job Title

Don’t take it at face value—titles vary by company.
Look at the level implied (e.g., “Coordinator” vs. “Manager”).
Cross-check responsibilities with industry norms.

📍 2. Check the Overview / About the Role

This usually reveals the “big picture” purpose of the job.
Ask yourself: What problem does this position solve for the company?

🎯 3. Focus on Responsibilities / Duties

These tell you what you’d be doing day-to-day.
Highlight tasks you’ve done before and note gaps to address in your cover letter or interview.
Pay attention to repeated themes (e.g., “collaboration,” “reporting,” “project management”)—that signals what’s most important.

📚 4. Break Down the Qualifications

Required: deal-breakers—if you don’t meet them, it’s harder to move forward (though experience can sometimes substitute).
Preferred / Nice to have: these are wish-list items, not must-haves. Don’t self-reject if you don’t check every box.

💡 5. Look at Keywords

Words like “fast-paced,” “detail-oriented,” or “self-starter” often reflect the company culture.
Jot down keywords—you’ll need them for tailoring your resume and cover letter (and for applicant tracking systems).

🏢 6. Notice the Company & Culture Signals

Phrases like “entrepreneurial environment” or “collaborative team” hint at expectations beyond the tasks.
Benefits and perks can also show whether they value work-life balance, professional growth, or hustle culture.

📝 7. Align Your Resume & Application

Mirror the language used in the description.
Highlight quantifiable results that prove you’ve done similar work.
If you lack one qualification, emphasize transferable skills.

👉 A quick trick: Print the job description and highlight in three colors

Green = You’ve got it (strengths to highlight).
Yellow = You somewhat have it (frame with transferable skills).
Red = You don’t have it (decide if it’s truly a deal-breaker).

Friday, August 22, 2025

Articles of Interest (August 22, 2025)

The Job Search: Before You Apply How to prepare in the months before you begin sending out applications. (Chronicle of Higher Education, November 1, 2024)

This article is a valuable starting point for anyone considering a tenure-track academic job. It emphasizes thoughtful planning, realistic assessment, and meaningful support. If you'd like, I can also help summarize the remaining four installments in this series—on crafting application materials, managing submissions, interview preparation, and navigating offers.

18 Effective Employee Retention Strategies (Indeed, August 5, 2025)
Instead of helping employers keep workers, this flips the lens: what job seekers should look for when evaluating an employer.

1 in 6 workers pretend to use AI amid workplace pressures, survey finds (HR Dive, August 18, 2025)
"AI-nxiety" in the workplace is real—but so too is the opportunity. For job seekers, the key is not just to "use AI," but to understand it, wield it with discernment, and pair it with human skills that AI can't emulate. This balanced approach—honest, strategic, and proactive—will serve you best in navigating the evolving workplace.

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Creating a Job Seeking Plan When You’re Already in a Job (August 21, 2025)

Creating a job-seeking plan while you’re already employed is a smart and strategic move. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you manage it effectively without jeopardizing your current position:

1. Clarify Your Career Goals

Ask yourself:

Why are you looking for a new job? (e.g., more money, growth, better culture, flexibility)
What type of role do you want next?
What industries or companies are you targeting?
What’s your timeline?

✅ Example Goal: “Find a remote mid-level marketing role in a tech company within 3–6 months.”

2. Set a Weekly Time Commitment

Decide how many hours per week you can realistically dedicate to job searching without it affecting your current work. Even 2–5 hours/week can be enough if used wisely.

3. Update Your Professional Materials

Resume – Tailor it to your target roles.
LinkedIn Profile – Turn on “Open to Work” (visible to recruiters only, if preferred).
Portfolio/Website – If relevant.
Cover Letter Template – Prepare a base version for quick tailoring.

4. Build a Job Search Routine

Structure your weekly time across key areas:

Task	Time/Week
Browsing/applying to jobs	1–2 hrs
Networking	1 hr
Resume/cover letter edits	30 mins
Interview prep or skill dev	1 hr

🔄 Repeat weekly with adjustments as needed.

5. Use Strategic Tactics

Job hunt on your own time: During lunch breaks, evenings, or weekends.
Use personal devices/accounts: Avoid job-related activity on your work laptop or email.
Keep it discreet: Don’t talk about your search with coworkers.

6. Engage Strategically

Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, or contacts in your target field.
Attend relevant industry events or join LinkedIn groups.
Let trusted people know you’re open to opportunities—but make sure they understand your current job situation.

7. Track Your Progress

Create a simple tracker (Excel, Notion, Google Sheets) with columns like:

Company name
Job title
Date applied
Contact person
Interview stage
Follow-up notes

📊 This keeps you organized and improves follow-ups.

8. Prepare for Interviews

Practice common interview questions in your field.
Be ready with a “Why are you leaving?” answer that’s honest but professional.
Schedule interviews outside work hours or use PTO sparingly.

9. Learn & Upskill (If Needed)

If your target roles require skills you’re a little light on, block out some time for:

Online courses (LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, etc.)
Certifications
Reading industry blogs or whitepapers

10. Evaluate Offers Carefully

Once you get interviews or offers, don’t jump too fast. Consider:

Salary and benefits
Company culture
Work-life balance
Long-term fit

Wednesday, August 20, 2025

How Working in College Sports Can Help You Land a Career in Pro Sports (August 20, 2025)

A flip of yesterday's blog post — college sports experience can also be a strong foundation for breaking into professional sports. Here’s how it benefits job seekers:

🔑 Benefits of College Sports Experience in Pro Sports Careers

1. Athlete Development & Mentorship

College athletics emphasizes student-athlete growth, balance, and welfare, which translates well to supporting young or emerging pro athletes.
Many pro teams value leaders who can guide players through transitions, discipline, and off-field responsibilities.

2. Resourcefulness & Versatility

College programs often operate with tighter budgets and smaller staffs, requiring professionals to wear multiple hats—marketing, compliance, event operations, community outreach.
This versatility makes candidates adaptable and ready for the fast-paced, multi-tasking demands of pro sports.

3. Event Management Experience

Running game days, tournaments, and NCAA/NAIA events develops transferable skills in operations, logistics, and fan experience, directly applicable to professional venues.

4. Recruiting & Talent Evaluation

In college athletics, recruiting is central. That background sharpens scouting, evaluation, and relationship-building skills that are valuable for pro team player development or front office roles.

5. Compliance & Governance Knowledge

Navigating NCAA/NAIA compliance builds an understanding of rules, regulations, and ethics. Pro leagues similarly demand regulatory awareness in contracts, labor relations, and league policies.

6. Community Engagement & Education

College athletics is rooted in community ties, alumni relations, and donor engagement. These experiences translate to fan development, sponsorship activation, and grassroots marketing in pro sports.

7. Leadership & Athlete-Centered Mindset

Professionals from college athletics often bring a people-first leadership style, having worked with young athletes in formative years. This can positively influence locker room culture in pro organizations.

⚠️ Challenge:
Job seekers must show they can scale up from education-driven athletics to business-driven sports, demonstrating an understanding of entertainment, profit models, and global branding that define professional sports.

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

How Working in Professional Sports Can Help Land You a Job in College Sports (August 19, 2025)

Professional sports experience can be a major asset for job seekers in the college sports industry. While the two environments have different cultures and missions, there are several key ways that professional sports backgrounds translate into advantages:

Ways Athletic Communications Professionals Can Work with Athlete-Led Media (August 18, 2025)

Early in my career, I cringed when I found out that coaches and/or student-athletes were engaging with the media without my knowledge. As I have progressed in my career, I have seen the rise of athlete-led media and chose to embrace it. I have composed this blog to help my athletic communications colleagues embrace athlete-led media. Athlete-led media (personal podcasts, vlogs, TikTok/IG accounts, even Substack newsletters) has become just as influential as traditional sports coverage. Instead of trying to compete with it, athletic communications professionals can collaborate, guide, and amplify. Here are some strategies:

Getting Involved in Your Campus Community as an Employee (August 15, 2025)

Later today, I am going to be speaking to the students in a sports communication class at Spartanburg Methodist College. This past weekend, I was a part of the campus community that helped incoming freshman move in. Being part of a college or university isn’t just about the job description—it’s about contributing to the life and spirit of the campus. Getting involved can enrich your work experience, strengthen relationships, and create a sense of belonging.

Ways to get involved:

Join campus committees or task forces — Share your expertise in shaping policies, programs, and campus culture.
Support campus events — Attend athletic games, theatre productions, lectures, and student showcases to show school spirit.
Volunteer with student organizations — Serve as an advisor, mentor, or resource for clubs and student initiatives.
Participate in professional development — Take advantage of workshops, trainings, and conferences offered through the institution.
Engage in community service — Join campus-led outreach projects that connect the institution with the local community.
Be visible and approachable — Take time to connect with students and colleagues outside of your immediate role.

When employees engage in the campus community, they help create a more vibrant, supportive, and connected environment—making the institution a better place for everyone.

Thursday, August 14, 2025

Getting Involved in a CSC Committee (August 14, 2025)

One of the most rewarding ways to get involved in College Sports Communicators is by serving on a committee. Committees are the heartbeat of CSC, driving many of the organization’s initiatives and providing members with a direct role in shaping the future of our profession.

When you join a committee, you’re not just signing up for meetings—you’re joining a small team of professionals who share your passion for sports communications. It’s a chance to:

Work alongside industry leaders and peers from all levels of college athletics.
Gain hands-on experience in areas like awards selection, professional development programming, advocacy, membership engagement, and diversity and inclusion.
Develop leadership skills that translate back to your campus or organization.
Expand your network far beyond your immediate circle, often forming lasting professional and personal relationships.
Have a voice in decisions that impact the profession and the resources CSC offers.

Committees typically meet virtually throughout the year, making participation possible regardless of location or schedule. And you don’t need decades of experience to contribute—fresh perspectives are welcomed and valued.

By joining a committee, you’re not just helping CSC thrive—you’re helping to ensure that sports communicators everywhere have the support, recognition, and tools they need to succeed.

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Getting Involved in Your Professional Organization (August 13, 2025)

I recently renewed my membership in College Sports Communicators (CSC). This membership has afforded me an abundance of opportunities—both personally and professionally. It was through CSC that I learned about my first opportunity beyond my campus: a volunteer position at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia.

On a personal note, CSC has introduced me to many of my closest friends—some of whom were there on one of the biggest days of my life: my wedding. Long-time College Sports Communicators member Roy Pickerill refers to those in the CSC organization as a family. I agree wholeheartedly.

If you’ve come across my blog and are wondering what getting involved means, I thought I would share some of my thoughts with you.

If you want to grow your career in sports communications, few investments pay off like active involvement in College Sports Communicators. CSC isn’t just a membership—it’s a network of peers who understand the unique challenges of our profession and are eager to share solutions, ideas, and opportunities.

Ways to get involved:

Join a committee — From awards to education to advocacy, there’s a place to share your skills and learn new ones. More on this to come in my next blog.
Attend conferences and webinars — Stay ahead of trends while making face-to-face connections that can last a lifetime.
Volunteer for projects — Small contributions can have big impacts on the profession while raising your visibility.
Share your expertise — Whether presenting at a session or writing an article, your experience can help others grow.

When you’re active in CSC, you’re not just improving your own career—you’re strengthening the profession for everyone.

Because in college sports communications, the best work happens when we connect, collaborate, and elevate each other.

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

First Day of School Advice for Athletic Communications Professionals (August 12, 2025)

Today marks the first day of classes for the students of Spartanburg Methodist College. I thought I would write this quick blog post to provide some insight to my colleagues. It’s a key opportunity for you to set the tone for your coverage all year long. Here are some quick tips:

1️⃣ Capture the Energy – Snap candid photos of student-athletes walking to class, meeting teammates, or reuniting after summer. These moments make great social posts.

2️⃣ Reintroduce Your Brand – Use the day to share your department’s voice, mission, and hashtags so they’re fresh in everyone’s minds.

3️⃣ Build Relationships Early – Check in with coaches, student-athletes, and yes… their parents. Strong connections now make coverage easier later.

4️⃣ Organize Your Coverage Plan – Finalize your fall sports content calendar and double-check your templates, graphics, and rosters.

5️⃣ Be Visible – Attend events, walk campus, and show up where the action is. Visibility builds trust and makes you the go-to person for stories.

💡 Pro Tip: A simple “Welcome Back” post with action shots or team smiles can rack up engagement and set a positive tone.

Monday, August 11, 2025

Working with Parents in Athletic Communications (August 11, 2025)

As I start my 25th year of working in college athletics, I am very thankful from the first day of the profession to now that I have forged a relationship with many of the parents of my student-athletes.

Networking within your organization (August 8, 2025)

As I mentioned yesterday, I talked about how important it is to network outside your industry. At my employer, it’s pretty well known that my connection goes all the way back to my college days. I actually met a co-worker on my very first day of college, who also happened to be the best man at my wedding! Over the course of my nine jobs in college athletics, I’ve worked with lots of athletic administrators, staff, support people, and coaches—many of whom have moved on to other opportunities. Being intentional about networking has really helped me, both personally and professionally.

Networking within your organization means building relationships with colleagues across different teams, levels, and departments to boost collaboration, increase your visibility, and support your career growth. Today, I want to dive into why networking within your own employer matters so much.

Here’s how you can do it effectively:

Start with your immediate team: Build strong connections with those you work with daily to establish trust and a solid reputation.
Attend internal events: Join company meetings, social gatherings, training sessions, or cross-departmental projects to meet people outside your team.
Seek out mentors and sponsors: Identify leaders or experienced colleagues who can offer guidance and advocate for you.
Volunteer for committees or special projects: This exposes you to diverse groups and demonstrates initiative.
Schedule one-on-one coffee chats: Reach out to colleagues in other departments to learn about their roles and share your own.
Use internal communication platforms: Engage in company chats, forums, or social networks to contribute ideas and stay visible.
Offer help and share knowledge: Being a resource to others builds goodwill and encourages reciprocity.

Effective internal networking helps you understand the bigger picture, discover opportunities, and build allies for your career growth.

Thursday, August 7, 2025

Networking Outside Your Industry (August 7, 2025)

I have spent the last 25 years working in the college sports and athletic communications industry. One of the best decisions I’ve made is intentionally networking beyond this field—not just within college sports and athletic departments, but across other disciplines and areas. This approach involves building relationships outside your immediate circle to gain fresh perspectives, uncover unexpected opportunities, and expand your influence.

As a special bonus, I have also provided this tip sheet to help you out.

Here’s what it entails:

Exploring diverse industries: You learn how different sectors operate, which can inspire new ideas or career pivots.
Finding transferable skills: Conversations can reveal how your skills apply elsewhere, opening doors you might not have considered.
Accessing broader networks: These connections might introduce you to people in their circles, amplifying your reach exponentially.
Gaining fresh insights: You get exposed to different challenges, trends, and innovations that could enrich your approach.
Increasing adaptability: Understanding other industries makes you more flexible and resilient in your career.

Overall, networking outside your industry is about building bridges, not walls, and creating a more versatile, future-proof career path.

Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Networking 102 (August 6, 2025)

Being strategic as a job seeker—especially when networking—means you're not just reaching out randomly or reacting to job postings. You're intentional, focused, and efficient with your time and energy. Here's what that really looks like in practice:

🎯 1. You Know What You Want

You’ve clarified:

The types of roles you’re pursuing.
The industries or companies that interest you.
Your top skills and what sets you apart.

💡 Strategic job seekers don’t cast a vague, wide net. They target with purpose.

🧭 2. You Map Your Network Before You Use It

Start by identifying:

First-degree connections in your field.
Second-degree contacts who could intro you to someone.
People at your target companies.

Use LinkedIn or even a spreadsheet to build a map—then prioritize who to reach out to based on relevance and strength of relationship.

🧩 3. You Match Outreach to Goals

Strategic networking isn’t just "Let’s grab coffee." It's:

Asking a hiring manager about team structure.
Asking a peer what challenges their company is tackling.
Asking a recruiter about the timeline for a role.

Each interaction moves you one step closer to a job—not just a chat.

🛠️ 4. You Prepare Before Each Conversation

Before any networking call or email, know:

Who they are.
What they’ve done recently.
Why you’re reaching out to them (not just anyone).

🚫 Strategic networking is not copy-pasting the same message to 50 people.

⏳ 5. You Don’t Waste Time on Dead Ends

If someone:

Doesn’t respond after 2 tries,
Is clearly uninterested, or
Can’t realistically help you…

You move on. Strategic job seekers protect their energy.

🪜 6. You Treat Each Contact Like a Stepping Stone

Every networking conversation is a chance to:

Ask for one new contact (“Is there anyone else you think I should speak with?”)
Learn something you didn’t know.
Build a reputation as someone thoughtful and serious.

🔄 7. You Give Back, Even Before You Get

This is what makes you memorable and respected:

Share relevant articles.
Congratulate them on a new role or post.
Mention someone you think they should meet.

This turns networking into relationship-building, which has long-term value.

Bottom line:
Strategic job seekers don’t just hope to get lucky. They build a process, set goals, and treat people like people—not just leads.

Networking 101 (August 5, 2025)

Networking is often the most effective—but also the most misunderstood and uncomfortable—part of job searching. If you've had to network (or are in the thick of it), here are honest, practical tips to make it work better, especially when your goal is to land a job.

✅ 1. Don’t Just “Ask for a Job” — Ask for Insight

People are more likely to help when:

You ask about their journey, company, or industry.
You say something like:
"I'm exploring roles in [field]. I’d love 15 minutes to learn how you broke into it or what trends you’re seeing."
This opens doors without putting pressure on them.

🧠 2. Know What You're Asking For

Be specific. Know if you’re:

Looking for an introduction to someone.
Hoping for a referral to a company.
Needing info about the hiring process or team structure.

People are more helpful when they know exactly how they can help.

✍️ 3. Follow Up the Right Way

If someone gives you their time:

Send a thank-you note (email is fine).
If they gave advice, show them you acted on it.

"I took your suggestion and reached out to [X company]—thanks again!"

This builds credibility and makes people more likely to refer you later.

🧩 4. Use Warm Intros When You Can

The best kind of networking is:

Someone you know introducing you to someone they know.
Ask: "Is there anyone you'd recommend I speak to?"
Then follow up and say: "X suggested I reach out to you..."

Even lukewarm connections are better than cold emails.

🔄 5. Treat Networking Like a Two-Way Street

Even if you feel like you have nothing to give, you can:

Share a helpful article or job lead.
Offer to support their work (e.g., signal-boost their content, events, etc.)
Be genuinely curious about their work—people like being seen.

📈 6. Keep a Simple Tracker

Use a spreadsheet or app to track:

Who you spoke to.
What you discussed.
When to follow up.

This avoids awkward forgetfulness and helps you spot which connections are warmest.

🛑 7. Know That Not Everyone Will Help — And That’s Okay

Some people will ignore you. Some will say no. Some will flake. It’s not personal. The goal isn’t for everyone to help—just the right few.

Networking is a volume game with a quality filter.

🎯 Bonus Tip: Be Ready for the Moment

When someone says:

"Sure, send me your resume"
Make sure:

Your resume is sharp and tailored.
You include a brief, confident message like:
"Thanks again for offering to pass this along. Here’s my resume and a short paragraph you could include if helpful."

Make it easy for them to help you.

👋 If you’re job hunting or just looking to connect with people in the industry, I’d love to network with you. Feel free to or drop a comment—always happy to chat, trade tips, or make intros if I can.

Let’s support each other.

Monday, August 4, 2025

Articles of Interest (August 4, 2025)

The last week had some articles of interest for job seekers from Business Insider, Kiplinger and Times of India).

This week, I wanted to explore the role of networking. Networking is essential because it opens doors to opportunities that aren’t always publicly advertised, allowing you to connect with decision-makers and industry insiders. Building genuine relationships helps you gain valuable insights, referrals, and support throughout your career journey. Ultimately, networking transforms your job search from a solo effort into a collaborative process.

📰 Biggest Red Flags in Job Posts and Applications (Business Insider, August 3, 2025)

Readers overwhelmingly report frustration with:
- Listings that omit salary info or feature vague compensation ranges
- Buzzwords like “fast‑paced” or “sense of humor,” which signal unclear expectations or bias
- Entry‑level roles requiring excessive experience or offering insufficient compensation
- A lack of clarity around flexibility or work‑life balance, which many now consider non‑negotiable

📰 Six Winning Moves to Land a Job After 50 (Kiplinger, July 30, 2025)

This Kiplinger article offers actionable strategies tailored for job seekers over 50. Highlights include resumé age-proofing, leveraging networks, upskilling online, and pursuing flexible roles like part-time or freelancing.

📰 One in Three U.S. Professionals Trusting ChatGPT for Career Counseling, but at What Cost? (Times of India, July 30, 2025)

This Times of India piece documents the rising use of AI like ChatGPT for career advice. It also cautions against overreliance on automated tools, stressing the importance of human mentorship and nuanced judgment.