April 2025

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You’ve probably heard of SMART goals, but let’s level up. I recommend using the CLEAR Goal Framework for your job search:

• Collaborative – Engage with others (networking, informational interviews).
• Limited – Keep your goals manageable.
• Emotional – Tie your goals to your “why” to stay motivated.
• Appreciable – Break big goals into bite-sized steps.
• Refinable – Be flexible and adjust when needed.

Instead of saying, “I want a new job soon,” try something like, “I will connect with three people in my industry each week, apply to five quality roles, and attend one virtual networking event per month to secure a new marketing manager role within three months.”

See how clear, actionable, and human that feels? That’s how you win.

Here’s the thing: job searching isn’t something you do when you "have time." If you want results, it needs to become part of your daily rhythm—just like brushing your teeth or scrolling social media (but way more productive).  Example

Your resume and LinkedIn profile are basically your marketing billboard—so make them sparkle. Tailor your resume for each role, highlighting your unique value, not just duties. Use action words and quantify your achievements.

On LinkedIn, your headline should scream, “Here’s why you need me!” not “Looking for opportunities.” Post, comment, share content—it boosts your visibility.

Here’s a little-known truth: Many jobs are filled through networking. That doesn’t mean cold-calling strangers and begging for jobs. It means reaching out for genuine conversations, learning about others’ career journeys, and staying top of mind when opportunities arise.

Start by connecting with former colleagues, people in your target industry, recruiters, and even people you admire. A simple message like, “Hey, I admire your work in [industry]. I’d love to hear about your career path over a virtual coffee!” can open doors you didn’t know existed.

If you don’t track it, you can’t measure it. Create a simple job search tracker, whether it’s a spreadsheet, Trello board, or Notion page. Log every application, follow-up, interview, and connection.

And don’t forget to celebrate along the way. Did you get an interview? Land a coffee chat? Receive positive feedback? Celebrate! Those small wins build momentum.

• Spend 30 minutes reviewing fresh job postings.
• Apply to 1-2 well-matched roles (no mass-applying!).
• Send one or two LinkedIn connection requests or follow-up messages.
• Spend 10 minutes learning something new—a quick podcast episode, an article, or a free course.

Truth: Quality beats quantity every time.

Spraying your resume everywhere without tailoring it will rarely work. Focus on applying strategically to roles that align with your skills, and spend time customizing your resume and cover letter. A well-thought-out application to 10 jobs will yield better results than blindly applying to 100.

Truth: There is no magic page number.

If you have relevant experience, a two-page resume is perfectly acceptable—especially for professionals with 10+ years of experience. What matters is clarity, relevance, and impact, not length.

Truth: Job descriptions are wish lists.

Most hiring managers know they may not find a unicorn candidate. If you meet 70-80%of the qualifications, apply! Showcase how your transferable skills and experience make you the right fit.

Truth: Many companies, especially large ones, use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), but humans still review resumes.

Recruiters and hiring managers read resumes daily. Optimizing for ATS is helpful, but don’t forget the human reader.

Truth: Good recruiters want you to succeed.

Their job is to find qualified candidates. Building a relationship with recruiters can open doors to roles you might not find on your own. Stay professional, respectful, and communicative.