1️⃣ Lead with focus to help reduce your workload.
Before sending a single application, define three things: your target roles, the top 5 things you want in a job, and what problems you solve best. Applying to too many types of jobs all over the place creates more work for you in having to prep multiple types of resumes, cover letters, and answers to interview questions.
2️⃣ Your resume isn’t a complete list, it’s a sales page.
You don't need everything you've ever done o your resume. Focus on what matches best with the job, and show results, not responsibilities. Replace “managed social media” with “grew engagement by 38% in 4 months.” Numbers, outcomes, and impact will push your resume to the top.
3️⃣ Keyword alignment isn’t cheating, it’s translation.
Applicant tracking systems are literal and they don't understand synonyms. Mirror the key skills and language from the posting exactly so your resume speaks their dialect and pushes you to the top of the list.
4️⃣ Networking is just saying hi.
Out of sight, out of mind, so be sure to touch base with people and be open to making new connections in your interested field. Comment thoughtfully on LinkedIn posts, reconnect with former colleagues, and ask how life is for them. Yes, you want to make sure people know about your job hunt and your goals, but you also want to be someone who is available to help others when you can as well.
5️⃣ Prepare stories, not scripts
Interviewers remember a good story. Build a small set of short success stories (using STAR or another method) that show how you think, collaborate, and solve problems. And remember, some stories can be used for multiple questions, so keep in mind all the common interview questions each of your stories can help answer.