3 Ways to Actually Land a Job: Because Sending 300 Applications is NOT the Answer
Let’s be real: job hunting right now is like trying to find a decent avocado at the grocery store—frustrating, time-consuming, “expensive”, and often disappointing in the end. You send out dozens of applications, only to get ghosted, reminding you just how lonely you are. But listen, it doesn’t have to be this way. I’m here to give you three strategies that are actually working. Spoiler alert: It’s not about applying to every job under the sun—it’s about being smart, strategic, and probably a little outside of your comfort zonne. Ready to stop spinning your wheels and start seeing results? Let’s go.
1. Craft a LinkedIn Narrative That Tells YOUR Story
Okay, so here’s the deal: your LinkedIn profile is basically your online dating profile, but for jobs. You wouldn’t list “likes long walks on the beach” without some context, right? (Please say no.) Your LinkedIn should do more than just list your past jobs—it needs to tell the world what makes you you.
Key Points:
Show Off, Just a Little: Talk about what you’ve done, but don’t just list your job titles like it’s a boring resume. Share your biggest wins, the stuff that makes you glow.
What Gets You Out of Bed in the Morning: Your summary should be more than just “I’m a hard worker.” (Yawn.) Talk about what you’re passionate about and what kind of work makes you excited to roll out of bed—even on a Monday.
Drop in Those Soft Skills: You’re more than just a bunch of bullet points. Tell them how your killer communication skills have saved the day more times than you can count.
Keywords are Your BFF: Think of these like hashtags, but for your career. Sprinkle them throughout your profile so recruiters can find you faster than you find your phone at the bottom of your bag.
Actionable Takeaway: Time to Marie Kondo your LinkedIn profile. If it doesn’t spark joy or help you get hired, get rid of it.
2. Make 7 to 10 Calls [minimum] Per Week
Stop Hiding Behind Emails and Get on the Phone! Listen, I get it. The idea of cold calling someone makes you want to crawl under the nearest blanket and never come out. But here’s the thing: jobs aren’t just about what you know, they’re about who you know. And who knows you back. I’m talking 7-10 outreach calls or Zooms a week. Yes, you read that right.
Key Points:
It’s Not About Begging for a Job: This isn’t an interview, so take a deep breath. You’re just reaching out to chat, catch up, and remind people that you exist and are awesome.
Go Beyond Your Inner Circle: Sure, talk to your besties, but don’t stop there. Reach out to old colleagues, that guy you met at a conference once, or even your cousin’s roommate’s brother. You never know where a job lead might come from.
Keep It Consistent: Like doing squats at the gym, you’ve got to keep at it to see results. Set a weekly goal and stick to it, even if it feels awkward at first. (Spoiler: It will.)
Actionable Takeaway: Pick up your phone and start scheduling those calls. You’ll thank me later when one of those convos lands you an interview.
3. Join Active Networking Groups
LinkedIn is great and all, but let’s be honest—everyone’s there because they have to be. It’s like the mandatory family reunion of the professional world. Want to network with people who are actually excited to connect? It’s time to branch out into places like Slack and Discord, where the cool kids (a.k.a. serious networkers) hang out.
Key Points:
Why Slack & Discord Rock: These groups are like a VIP lounge for networking—people join them because they actually want to connect, share ideas, and help each other out.
Make Friends Outside Your Bubble: Don’t just stick to people in your field. Expand your horizons and you might just find yourself being passed an amazing job lead that’s perfect for you but not right for them.
Be a Regular: Lurking isn’t going to cut it. Participate in discussions, share insights, and be the person who people remember for all the right reasons.
Actionable Takeaway: Find a few industry-specific groups and dive in. Contribute, share, and watch your network (and opportunities) grow.
Conclusion:
If you’re tired of hitting “submit” on endless job applications and hearing nothing but crickets, it’s time to switch things up. By crafting a LinkedIn profile that actually says something, getting on the phone and talking to people, and joining active networking groups, you’re going to start seeing results.
Need more career help? Need someone in your ear hyping you up and telling you what to do? This is not only what I do, but it’s what I love to do. Sign up for a 20-minute consultation, or jump in with both feet and grab 50 minutes with me! You won’t regret it. These sessions are action-packed and deliver real value. [Book a meeting now!]
Or sign up for my newsletter below to stay in the loop on all things career related.
