Find Your Dream Job: Insider Tips for Finding Work, Advancing your Career, and Loving Your Job

If you’ve been laid off or need to find a job quickly, you might feel tempted to send your resume or application materials to every open position you discover. But Find Your Dream Job guest Serena Chan says that’s not a good plan. Hiring managers and recruiters need to know you have the specific skills necessary for the position you’re applying for. Serena also says it’s important to do your own research to be sure that the company you’re applying to is a place you truly want to work, based on their vision and company culture. About Our Guest: Serena Chan (https://www.linkedin.com/in/serena-chan-79881114/) is a recruiter with Cambia Health Solutions. It’s a nonprofit health care company. Resources in This Episode: To learn more about the job opportunities at Cambia, visit their website at cambiahealth.com/careers. (http://www.cambiahealth.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As a job seeker, it’s your responsibility to know what skills and abilities you have that set you apart from other applicants. Figuring out what makes you unique isn’t difficult, according to Find Your Dream Job guest Kay Kirkman. It begins with making a list of what you’re great at, whether through job or life experience. What is something only you can do? Once you know what you have to offer, Kay suggests using job boards to get an idea of the possibilities, and to decide what jobs you might enjoy and which companies to pursue. About Our Guest: Kay Kirkman (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaykirkman/) is a career coach, speaker, and host of The GenX Career Show (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-genx-career-show/id1530650736). She helps professionals at midlife find their career passion, even if they think they’re too old or it’s too late. Resources in This Episode: To learn more about Kay’s 6-week coaching program, visit her website at yourgenxcareer.com. (https://joyfuldreamlife.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A personal brand is more important than ever in today’s job market, and if you hope to switch careers, your personal brand will be a crucial piece of the puzzle. Executing a career pivot is not as scary as it might seem, and something you may actually do more than once. The good news, according to Find Your Dream Job guest Erica Mattison, is that you don’t need to be a professional marketer to market yourself. Erica gives advice on how to build a work sample portfolio that tells your story and how to become a thought leader in your chosen field. About Our Guest: Erica Mattison (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericamattison/) is a certified career coach who specializes in helping mission-driven individuals craft fulfilling careers and lives. Resources in This Episode: If you need help clarifying your goals and building your confidence, visit Erica’s website at ericamattison.com. (https://www.ericamattison.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s not unusual to want to make a positive impact in the world, even in your career, but most people think that working in a nonprofit is the only way to do so. Find Your Dream Job guest Erin Ewart says that’s not true. You can find a social impact job in government, philanthropy, and even in the corporate world. To get started, Erin suggests first deciding what type of impact you want to make and why. Once you’re clear on your values and direction, map out the companies and roles you’re interested in, and use your network to get your name in front of the right people. About Our Guest: Erin Ewart (https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinewart/) is a career coach and the founder of Careers for Social Impact. It’s an organization that helps mission-driven professionals grow in their careers and land jobs they love. Resources in This Episode: If it’s time for you to invest in personal job search help, visit Erin’s website at careersforimpact.com.(https://careersforimpact.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do you struggle to make tough career decisions or ask for the salary you deserve in a job interview? Maybe you’re telling yourself stories that aren’t true. If you’re stuck in negative thought patterns, Find Your Dream Job guest Dr. Tega Edwin is here to share how to turn those limiting beliefs into liberating beliefs by figuring out where they come from and reframing them into positive stories about yourself. About Our Guest: Tega Edwin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tegaedwin/) is a career counselor and coach who helps women who are unhappy at work get clarity so they can find a fulfilling career. Resources in This Episode: If you’re ready for more help finding the career that’s right for you, check out Tega’s coaching options on her website at hercareerdoctor.com. (https://hercareerdoctor.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Layoffs are discouraging in the best of times, but when you lose your job during a global pandemic, finding a new one can be nearly overwhelming. How do you find the perfect position when many companies aren’t hiring? On this bonus episode of Find Your Dream Job, Blair Denniberg (https://www.linkedin.com/in/blair-denniberg-140315114/) shares how she chose which jobs to apply for and why she applied at places that weren’t currently hiring. We also discuss customizing your resume for each application and how to work with less-than-stellar technology when doing virtual interviews. Learn more about Blair’s career history below in this installment of our Success Stories series.(https://www.macslist.org/articles/success-stories) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the most important things you can do as a job seeker is to stand out from the crowd, and Find Your Dream Job guest Kyle Elliott has a specific way to do just that. Do you know what makes you fabulous? Kyle shares how to use your childhood interests and positive feedback from friends and family to figure out what makes you unique. He also tells us why showing up as your authentic self is crucial in an interview, and how to assess the level of risk you’re willing to take in order to experience more great and rewarding moments in life. About Our Guest: Kyle Elliott (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylecromerelliott/)is the career coach behind CaffeinatedKyle.com (https://caffeinatedkyle.com/). Kyle’s clients have landed jobs at Facebook, LinkedIn, Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and nearly every other Fortune 500 company you can think of. Resources in This Episode: Find out more about Kyle and his career services by visiting caffeinatedkyle.com. (https://caffeinatedkyle.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you feel bored or discontent at work, maybe it’s time to seek a new position- in your current company. Find Your Dream Job guest Tristan Layfield says internal job-seeking can be a great way to get that promotion or gain the skills you need to further your career. Tristan suggests you begin with setting goals for performance and tracking your success, then sharing those successes with your managers during performance reviews. It’s also crucial to build relationships with others in your company that you can learn from and who will support you. About Our Guest: Tristan Layfield (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tristanlayfield/) is a career coach and resume writer. His articles have appeared in Business Insider, Black Enterprise, and The Muse. Resources in This Episode: Tristan shares more tips on career development on his podcast, Tap in With Tristan. (https://www.living-corporate.com/tag/tristan/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you send in the same generic resume to every position you apply for, you’re likely to be passed over more often than not. What can you do to make your resume unforgettable? Find Your Dream Job guest Derek Murphy-Johnson has several suggestions, beginning with using the keywords and specific language of the job description. Derek also explains how to match your experience with the job you want, the best tricks to avoid typos, and why keeping your resume simple is the best way to stand out from the crowd. About our Guest: Derek Murphy Johnson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/hrderek/) is in charge of talent attraction at KinderCare Education (https://www.kc-education.com/). It’s the largest childcare provider in the United States. Resources in This Episode: Connect with Derek on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/hrderek/) for more information on the work he does. From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do you pay close attention to the actual words you use in an interview? We all say, “um” sometimes, but does it really matter? If you feel nervous when meeting with a hiring manager, you might use fillers, disclaimers, or hedge words. According to Find Your Dream Job guest Tracy Hooper, those extra words are making you appear less than confident. If you’re ready to lose the words that sabotage your confidence, Tracy suggests recording yourself, working on losing one hedge word per month, and practicing using positive language. About Our Guest: Tracy Hooper (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracyhooper/) is a former TV news anchor, a professional speaker, and the founder of The Confidence Project. (https://www.confidenceproject.com/) Resources in This Episode: If you want to learn the skills necessary to be successful in today’s job economy, get Tracy’s new book, "The New Hello: What to Say What to Do in the New World of Work.” (https://www.confidenceproject.com/book) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume . (http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume (http://macslist.org/topresume) has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A job search can be grueling and the discouragement of not finding a job quickly is a common factor for many job seekers. One way to find a job you might love is to take a chance on a field you hadn’t considered before. On this bonus episode of Find Your Dream Job, Miranda Whitters (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwhitters/) shares how she used her psychology degree to pursue a career in recruiting and how her network helped to get her foot in the door. We also discuss why one-click applications are a waste of time, and how field-specific certifications can provide you with more exposure to the jobs you want. Learn more about Miranda’s career history below in this installment of our Success Stories series. (https://www.macslist.org/articles/success-stories) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are you considering going back to school before pursuing your dream job? What if you could get that position without paying thousands of dollars for more education? Find Your Dream Job guest Ken Coleman says it’s entirely possible, and he offers two questions to ask yourself before signing up for student loans. Ken also shares networking tips, how to pursue alternative education, and the importance of following your gut. About Our Guest: Ken Coleman (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kencoleman-/) is the nationally syndicated radio host of The Ken Coleman Show and the author of The Proximity Principle. Resources in This Episode: If you need help figuring out the next step in your career or job search, visit Ken’s website at kencoleman.com. (https://www.kencoleman.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume (http://macslist.org/topresume)has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If the statistics are true, recruiters and hiring managers spend less than 5 minutes looking at each resume they receive; even less if it doesn’t grab their attention immediately. In order to get past the first round of screening, Find Your Dream Job guest Agnes Zach says you need to use the language of the job description in your cover letter and resume. In addition, she suggests preparing specific, 3-5 minute answers to the most commonly asked interview questions. Agnes also shares the most common reasons you aren’t making it to the final round of interviews. About Our Guest: Agnes Zach (https://www.linkedin.com/in/agneszach/)is the CEO at Nonprofit Professionals Now. Her organization offers executive search, temporary staffing, and talent evaluation services. Resources in This Episode: If you’re a professional or job seeker in the nonprofit sector, Agnes offers services to help you. Find out more at her website at npprofessionals.com. (https://npprofessionals.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There are many elements involved in landing your dream job; networking, a professional resume, and solid skills are just a few of the things required. But even with all that, it can be incredibly difficult. What if there was a silver bullet to fast-track your job search? Find Your Dream Job guest Jason Alba says informational interviews are the answer. Jason adds that informational interviews are an incredibly effective job search tool that most people aren’t taking advantage of, and he shares how to get the most out of your own. About Our Guest: Jason Alba (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonalba/) is the founder and creator of JibberJobber (https://www.jibberjobber.com/login.php), the six-week job search program. Jason is also a soft skills and career expert for Pluralsight. Resources in This Episode: For help organizing and tracking your job search, visit JibberJobber.com. (https://www.jibberjobber.com/login.php) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume (http://macslist.org/topresume). Top Resume (http://macslist.org/topresume) has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’ve ever been ghosted after what you thought was a great interview, you may feel confused about what went wrong. It’s easy to get discouraged when you’ve put your all into the interview only to be rejected. But Find Your Dream Job guest Shelley Piedmont says there are ways to be better prepared next time. First, focus more on the value you bring than strictly on your qualifications. Second, be a clear communicator. And finally, remember that sometimes, not being selected gives you a better chance at job fulfillment and happiness. About Our Guest: Shelley Piedmont (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleypiedmont/) is a former recruiter and human resource director. She’s also the founder of ShelleyPiedmont.Com (https://www.shelleypiedmont.com/) Resources in This Episode: If you’re ready to find a job you love, Shelley can help. Learn more by visiting her website at shelleypiedmont.com. (https://www.shelleypiedmont.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume (http://macslist.org/topresume) has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever heard that to find the job of your dreams, you should follow your passions? But not all passions lend themselves to a career, and not everyone has passions to follow. Instead of trying to figure out your passion so that you can be happy at work, Find Your Dream Job guest Grace Lee says it’s a better idea to pursue meaningful purpose. Stop hoping to find your perfect career; take charge of your future by digging deep into what drives you and creating your own opportunities. About Our Guest: Dr. Grace Lee (https://www.linkedin.com/in/doctorlee/) is the host of the Career Revisionist Podcast (https://careerrevisionist.com/) and founder of Mastery Insights (https://www.masteryinsights.com/), a coaching and education company. She is on a mission to unleash the extraordinary in the world through insightful career development, integrating neuroscience and business development principles. Resources in This Episode: For more insights into building your career, listen to Grace’s podcast: https://careerrevisionist.com/podcast If you wait for employers to bring up salary, you’re wasting your time and energy. My guide, How to Talk About Money in an Interview (https://salary.macslist.org/), shows you how to do salary research before meeting with a hiring manager. Learn how to be more comfortable talking about money and get the tools you need to request a higher salary. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Some fields are naturally more difficult to get into, and require more than a professional resume or great cover letter. There are jobs that can’t be won without experience in the field. But how can you get that experience before you get the job you want? On this bonus episode of Find Your Dream Job, Hannah Fattor shares how she used volunteer work to hone the skills she needed for the position she wanted. Hannah and I also discuss how working at a nonprofit gave her the opportunity to begin getting the experience she needed to build her portfolio. Learn more about Hannah’’s career history below in this installment of our Success Stories series. (https://www.macslist.org/articles/success-stories) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’re like most people, you don’t enjoy talking about your greatest accomplishments. It can feel uncomfortable to “toot your own horn,” even when a hiring manager asks you about your skills and expertise. If you want to stand out in today’s tough job market, Find Your Dream Job guest Elizabeth Gross says you must overcome this reluctance. Elizabeth shares how to emphasize your accomplishments on your resume, as well as the best way to sell yourself on LinkedIn. About Our Guest: Elizabeth Gross (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethgross/) is the owner of Job Search Divas where she offers a range of career-related services, including resume writing, career coaching, job search strategies, networking skills, and interview preparation. Resources in This Episode: To find out more about Elizabeth and the services she offers, visit her website at www.jobsearchdivas.com. Nail every behavioral interview question in your next interview by learning how to prepare for them. Download 100 Behavioral Interview Questions You Need to Know. (http://www.macslist.org/questions) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What do you say when a hiring manager asks you why you’re looking for a new job? If this question makes you feel defensive, Find Your Dream Job guest Susan Peppercorn says you need to find a way to put a positive spin on your answer, even if the truth is that you were fired or laid off. Hiring managers understand difficult situations, so don’t be afraid to be honest, while not spewing negativity toward a former employer. Susan advises focusing on what you bring to the table and why you’re interested in working with that company. About Our Guest: Susan Peppercorn(https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpeppercorn/) is a coach, writer, and speaker. She’s passionate about helping people move from surviving to thriving in their careers. Susan is the author of the bestselling “Ditch Your Inner Critic At Work: Evidence-Based Strategies To Thrive In Your Career.“ (https://amzn.to/2Z49VJ7). Resources in This Episode: Wondering if you’re in the right job? Get your free Career Fit Self-Assessment at https://positiveworkplacepartners.com/ If you’re struggling with how to craft a compelling cover letter, we’ve got a free guide that can help. Download Simple Rules for a Winning Cover Letter here: https://coverletter.macslist.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you're like most people, you feel nervous when going into a job interview. And science has shown that a lack of self-confidence directly affects your body language, which can distract the hiring manager or make you appear less suited for the job. You don’t want to walk into an interview room and try to wing it. You want to walk in there with confidence. Today’s guest on the Find Your Dream Job podcast, John Ribeiro, says that confidence comes from changing your mindset, preparing what you’re going to say, and sharing stories that show your true and authentic self. About Our Guest: John Ribeiro (linkedin.com/in/ribeirojohn/) gives people what they need to ace a job interview. He prepares you with the skills and mindset to answer those tough questions that will lead you to a job offer. John is also a veteran hiring manager. And he’s a professional public speaker, podcaster, and co-author of the book Zero2hired: Successfully Break Through Your Interview Process. Resources in This Episode: Learn how to fully prepare for the interview process with John’s course, zero2hired.com/#courses, Are you jobless, underemployed, or dissatisfied with your work? John’s book, “Zero2Hired,” (zero2hired.com/get-book) provides the help you need to break through the barriers that keep you from finding a job you love. If you love this podcast, be sure to listen to the Zero2Hired podcast (zero2hired.com/podcast), where John and his colleague share helpful tips and strategies on finding your dream job. Nail every behavioral interview question in your next interview by learning how to prepare for them. Download 100 Behavioral Interview Questions You Need to Know, the free Mac’s List resource that will give you a solid foundation for any question an interviewer may ask. Visit macslist.org/questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Figuring out the next step on your career journey takes energy and focus. If your strategy so far has been to apply everywhere and see what happens, getting clear on your purpose can reap powerful benefits. Find Your Dream Job guest Erin Thomas says you need to know exactly what type of job is going to leverage your unique talents and strengths. Erin also shares the five-step process she uses with clients to get clear about who you are and about what matters most to you in a job search. About Our Guest: Erin Thomas (www.linkedin.com/in/erinfthomas/) is a career and leadership coach, organizational development expert, and human resources professional. Over the past 15 years, Erin has worked with hundreds of people from all around the globe to uncover their unique leadership stance and voice, putting them in the driver seat of their career and life. Resources in This Episode: To learn more about Erin’s career coaching, visit her website at careerandleadershipcoaching.com. Do you find yourself applying for any job that you think you could do? Before you send out your next application, stop chasing every lead and get clear about your own goals. Our free guide, Finding Focus in Your Job Search (focus.macslist.org/), can help. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you're a mid-career professional looking to make a career change, you’re likely to face obstacles as you try to find the best possible position. Since finding that next job can take a while, you need to use that time to hone in on your unique strengths and talents. On this episode of Find Your Dream Job, Alfredo Moreno (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alfredovmoreno/) shares how refining his elevator pitch helped him to see the things he valued most, as a professional and as a person. Alfredo also shares how goal setting and accountability helped him keep his focus, even during a months-long job search. Learn more about Alfredo’s career history below in this installment of our Success Stories series (https://www.macslist.org/articles/success-stories). What do you do for a career? Who do you work for? I’m the community relations manager at Portland Community College’s Rock Creek campus (https://www.pcc.edu/about/locations/rock-creek/) in Washington County. How long did it take you to find this job? It was a long process, but with different stages of intensity. I had my periscope up for about 16 months overall, but I was particularly intentional, strategic, and intense about it for the final nine months. How did you find your job? What resources did you use? What tool or tactic helped the most? I found the job the standard, not-particularly-efficient way — discovered it on a job listing website (Indeed.com, I believe) and applied online. Obviously it was one of many I applied for during the long search, but was one of the few that really resonated with me right away. It wasn’t just an intriguing opportunity, it was a role that I knew I could do at a high level and felt very confident that it would maximize both my person passions and professional skill set. I’d say it was a rare opportunity in that regard to hit that sweet spot. So, I put a good amount of time and energy into my resume and, particularly, my cover letter. My resume changed shapes over time throughout my search thanks to input I received from peers and, particularly, an agency rep I worked with. I didn’t get any job opportunities through them, but the feedback on my resume was invaluable. Also (and honestly I have no idea if this moved the needle at all) I printed off physical copies of my resume and cover letter and mailed them in a manilla envelope to the person I thought was the hiring manager for this role. Turned out, she wasn’t (it’s a little unique here), but maybe that resonated a bit with the hiring committee. At minimum, it didn’t seem to hurt me. Finally, even after I had done my initial interview, I kept networking and through some additional LinkedIn exploration I discovered that one of my PCC counterparts in this role was connected to a friend of mine. I asked for an introduction and set up a lunch meeting with my PCC counterpart a week or two before my final interview that was incredibly valuable. She wasn’t on the hiring committee, but gave me some great insight into the role and, most importantly, a real confidence boost heading into the final round. What was the most difficult part of your job search? How did you overcome this challenge? There were several large challenges in my search. The first was simply how long it took. While the end result was absolutely rewarding, having “job hunting” take over as my top extra-curricular activity for 8-9 months was draining to say the least. I will also say, it was pretty disheartening to experience the shabby way many organizations treat applicants. I’ve been on the hiring side of this process as well and know that it’s no picnic, but I was disappointed with how many companies failed to follow-up in a timely fashion, even when they promised to do so after an interview stage. The organizations that were sincerely appreciative of the great time and effort applicants put forth, and communicated clearly throughout the process, stood apart from the rest. Finally, as somebody who was well into their career (nearly 20 years) and approaching…okay, at…middle age, with all the varied responsibilities that come with it (mortgage, kid, etc.), I didn’t have the flexibility to explore lower paying opportunities, even if the role had lots of appeal. I had to make a lateral move at worst, which isn’t easy, especially coming out of a niche industry. My window of opportunity was certainly smaller than it would’ve been 10 years earlier when I had more financial and personal flexibility. I overcame these challenges by diving deeper into my goal-setting process and staying as organized as I could (I used a tool called the Best Self Journal to help). I also needed all the encouragement and understanding that I could get from my friends and family who appreciated how grueling it was to stay after this for so long. You’ve got to have advocates in this process, both personal and professional. What is the single best piece of advice you would offer other job-seekers? Get organized and set specific milestones for

If you’ve ever decided not to apply for a job because you didn’t have 100 percent of the requirements, you may want to revise your strategy. Employers know that there is no perfect candidate for the jobs they advertise. You might be the best applicant with only 60-70 percent of the skills required. But how do you explain the lack of certain skills in an interview? Find Your Dream Job guest Eric B. Horn suggests assuring the hiring manager that you are willing to pursue training and further education if necessary. Eric also shares how to know when the lack of specific skills is a deal-breaker. About Our Guest: Eric B. Horn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbhorn) is a career strategist. national speaker, trainer, and seminar leader who has a unique passion for serving professionals with seven or fewer years of work experience, and business owners, become more successful. Eric is also the author of “How Professional is Your Development” (https://amzn.to/2O6MZWj) and the co-host of the C.A.R.E. podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-c-a-r-e-podcast/id1451656665). Resources in This Episode: Pick up a copy of Eric’s book, “How Professional is Your Development,” (https://amzn.to/2O6MZWj) to learn about his mistakes after college graduation and how you can avoid them. You can avoid the resume pitfalls we consistently see job seekers make with my resource: Don't Make These 8 Killer Resume Mistakes (https://resume.macslist.org/). In this guide, I’ll show you how to avoid the most common errors and get employers to take a second look at your resume. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In most job interviews, the hiring manager will lead with questions like “Tell me about a time when …” Or, “Have you ever faced a situation where…?” These are both examples of behavioral interview questions. Before you walk into an interview, you need to be ready for every possible iteration of a behavioral interview question. Find Your Dream Job guest Gina Riley emphasizes that behavioral interview questions give you an opportunity to showcase your skills, demonstrate how you work with a team, and highlight how you’ll excel in the role. About Our Guest: Gina Riley (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginariley) is an executive career coach and leadership search consultant with Talence Group (https://www.talencegroup.com/). Her experience in recruitment, interviewing, and leadership talent development led her to develop a career coaching program to help executives clarify and better articulate their career stories. Resources in This Episode: If you’re ready for executive-level coaching or recruiting, visit Gina at https://www.talencegroup.com/. To better understand your strengths and skills, and how your personality plays into your job search and career, check out You Map (https://www.myyoumap.com). Nail every behavioral interview question in your next interview by learning how to prepare for them. Download 100 Behavioral Interview Questions You Need to Know (https://jobinterview.macslist.org/). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s not uncommon to feel as though a job interview is an interrogation and that your entire life is on display for the interviewer to pick apart. But, an interview is a two-way conversation. And while it’s important to prepare for the questions you may get, Find Your Dream Job guest Rachel Beohm says it’s also crucial that you walk into the room with confidence, and the knowledge that you belong there. Rachel shares how eye contact, positive body language, and knowing your value before you walk into the interview can help you to come across more confidently. About Our Guest: Rachel Beohm (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelbeohm/) is an executive coach and speaker who specializes in nonverbal communication and personal presence. She trains executives, HR professionals, speakers, and job seekers to present themselves powerfully through the use of nonverbal communication skills so they can achieve their goals, and helps her clients face difficult or scary situations, such as public speaking, negotiation, and job interviews with confidence and power. Resources in This Episode: For more information on Rachel’s one on one coaching or to find out where she will be speaking next, visit her website at rachelbeohm.com. Download Rachel’s free interview guide, “Ace Your Interview,” at http://rachelbeohm.com/interview/ If you wait for employers to bring up salary, you’re wasting your time and energy. My guide, How to Talk About Money in an Interview (https://www.macslist.org/cta-how-to-talk-about-money-in-an-interview), shows you how to do salary research before meeting with a hiring manager. Learn how to be more comfortable talking about money and get the tools you need to request a higher salary. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the biggest challenges that you will face in your professional life is choosing a career. It’s not only recent college graduates that face this challenge. Most of us will change careers at least once during our working lives. How do you find the job that’s the best fit for you, no matter your age? Find Your Dream Job guest, Dalan Vanterpool, says that before you begin thinking about certain roles, you need to ask yourself five specific questions. The answers to these questions can help you land a job that not only allows you to excel in your work, but also provides an atmosphere that you enjoy being a part of every day. About Our Guest: Dalan Vanterpool (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dalanv/) is a private banker and career development expert from the British Virgin Islands. Dalan hosts the Focus The Fire podcast (http://focusthefire.com/). His show helps young professionals build meaningful careers that lead to more time, money, and freedom. Resources in This Episode: Dalan’s podcast, Focus the Fire (http://focusthefire.com/), will show you how to transform from an average employee to an amazing leader. Dalan offers essential career advice for young professionals on his website, dalanvanterpool.com. If you wait for employers to bring up salary, you’re wasting your time and energy. My guide, How to Talk About Money in an Interview (https://www.macslist.org/cta-how-to-talk-about-money-in-an-interview), shows you how to do salary research before meeting with a hiring manager. Learn how to be more comfortable talking about money and get the tools you need to request a higher salary. From our Sponsor: Sneaker School is an online certificate program that lets you explore career paths in the footwear industry and learn from some of the biggest names in the business. Visit sneakerschool.com/mac to start mapping your career in the sneaker world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In order to find a career you love, you have to know what you want. Great careers don’t just happen; they’re formed by taking advantage of opportunities, setting goals, and making connections with the people who can help you get the job you want. On this episode of Find Your Dream Job, Alisyn Maggiora (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisynmaggiora/) and I discuss how setting clear goals, developing her personal network, and pursuing informational interviews allowed her to get her dream job, even in an industry that she had no experience in. Learn more about Alisyn’s career history below in this installment of our Success Stories series (https://www.macslist.org/articles/success-stories). What do you do for a career? Who do you work for? I am an administrative professional with a focus on the non-profit energy industry. I work for the NW Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) (https://neea.org/). How long did it take you to find this job? 3 months. How did you find your job? What resources did you use? What tool or tactic helped the most? I first found my job on Mac’s List and ultimately, networked my way into the position. I volunteered at a few conferences and events in the industry I was looking to transition into. I networked at those events and followed up with people to learn more about their work and possible opportunities. Eventually, paths started to cross and I received a pivotal recommendation for the position and company I was most excited about. What was the most difficult part of your job search? How did you overcome this challenge? Maintaining resilience and confidence when opportunities didn’t pan out. I kept the faith that the right opportunity would come along and continued to find ways to connect with people in the industry and discern what I was most interested in. I thought of it as both relationship building and a learning opportunity. What is the single best piece of advice you would offer other job-seekers? Get really clear about the kind of work you want to focus on AND the environment/culture in which you want to do it. Put your greatest effort into the types of opportunities that align most with the direction you want to go (applications, volunteering, etc.); don’t just plaster your resume all over the place and expect that to get you something you’ll be really happy with. Network and volunteer for activities that are related to the work you want to do; have conversations with people – build a web. If you’re clear in expressing what you want and stay curious throughout the process, people will usually reciprocate interest in you. Why do you love your job? The size of the organization, culture, and mission support the environment I thrive in. I get to work on projects that interest me and I work with smart, passionate people that have similar personal and professional interests. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When you see a job posting that you're interested in, your natural inclination might be to get your application in as quickly as possible. After all, you’ve got a better chance of being seen if you get it in early, right? Not so, according to Find Your Dream Job guest Connel Valentine. Sending in a general resume, no matter how early, is a great way to end up on a huge pile of other discarded, generic resumes. Connel says the best way to get ahead of the competition is to understand the job description, conduct extensive research, and use that research to arrange a meeting with the hiring executives. About Our Guest: Connel Valentine (www.linkedin.com/in/connelvalentine/) helps people find the job that’s right for them. He's a career coach and online course instructor at Zero2Hired (zero2hired.com/). Providing both one-on-one sessions as well as self-paced learning courses, Connel shares core skills with clients to get them into the workforce as quickly as possible. Resources in This Episode: For more information on finding the job that’s right for you, visit Zero2Hired.com. (https://zero2hired.com/) Your presence online is critical in order for employers to find you. Learn how to use your social media to make a favorable impression by enrolling in our free online course, How to Wow and Woo Employers Online (https://macslist.teachable.com/p/impress-employers-online/?src=podcast). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A strong job search strategy includes many things, but have you ever considered that publishing content on LinkedIn should be an integral part of that strategy? LinkedIn is a great place to find your next position, says Find Your Dream Job guest Andy Foote. Andy recommends finding content that has high engagement and using it to inform your own writing. As you publish content, continue to build connections so that an audience will begin to engage with your posts. And once you have a bank of content to share, add your best posts to the Featured section of your LinkedIn page. About Our Guest: Andy Foote (https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfoote/) is a writer and coach who teaches LinkedIn strategies. Andy also hosts the podcast, Foote-Notes. (https://www.foote-notes.com) It’s an interview show with interesting people on LinkedIn. Resources in This Episode: To learn how to maximize your LinkedIn profile, head over to Andy’s website at www.linkedinsights.com/. (http://www.linkedinsights.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you are currently a graduate student, you might be waiting until graduation to look for your next position. But that’s a mistake on several levels, says Find Your Dream Job guest Liz Hererra. If you spend time at the beginning of your education figuring out where you hope to end up, you can avoid months of frustration. Liz recommends assessing your strengths, building a strong network, and taking advantage of internships to build momentum in your job search during graduate school. About Our Guest: Liz Herrera (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizherrera1/) is a professional career coach. Liz is also a director of career development and major exploration at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Resources in This Episode: For more career advice and coaching, listen to Liz’s podcast, Liz Career Coaching Podcast. (https://www.lizcareercoaching.net/podcast/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

While COVID-19 ushered in the era of virtual hiring, we can expect it to stick around long after the pandemic is over. But how do you pivot to prepare for mostly virtual interviews? Find Your Dream Job guest Shereen Rodrigues says it all starts with that first impression. She suggests dressing your best, head to toe, and having a professional-looking background for video interviews. Shereen says that you should be prepared to share digital copies of your work samples, and practice using all the technology your interview requires before the actual meeting. About Our Guest: Shereen Rodrigues (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shereenrodriguesmbaphr/) is the talent acquisition manager at Otak. (https://www.otak.com/) It’s an architecture and engineering design firm. Resources in This Episode: For more information and to connect with Shereen, contact her on LinkedIn, (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shereenrodriguesmbaphr/) or email her directly at [email protected]. (mailto:[email protected]) Be sure to mention that you heard her on this podcast. From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You’ve updated your resume, figured out what lights you up, and held informational interviews. But you might still be missing an important piece in your job search: taking advantage of your alumni network. Find Your Dream Job guest Tiffany Waddell Tate offers a reminder that you have access to people across all sectors and locations simply because of where you were educated. Tiffany suggests using LinkedIn or the Career Services Office at your alma mater to connect with others from your school, and always remember to give back as much, or more, than you ask for. About Our Guest: Tiffany Waddell Tate (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanywaddelltate/) is the CEO and founder of Career Maven Consulting. (https://www.careermavenconsulting.com/) It’s a career coaching and talent development firm. Resources in This Episode: If you’re ready to create a resume that gets noticed, take a look at Tiffany’s mini-course, The Resume Cure. (https://careermavenacademy.teachable.com/p/the-resume-cure) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Due to COVID-19, companies are now hiring for more virtual positions than ever before. But how do you prepare to find one of these virtual jobs? Your first step is to figure out what lights you up, according to Find Your Dream Job guest Amanda Nachman. Amanda says passionate people are more likely to snag one of the few jobs available in this economy. She also shares specific ways to build your network, not only while seeking your next job but as a daily practice. And lastly, make sure your background for virtual interviews is clean, and that you’re dressed professionally. About Our Guest: Amanda Nachman (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandanachman/) is the author of the new book, “#Qualified: You Are More Impressive Than You Realize.” (https://www.amazon.com/QUALIFIED-More-Impressive-Than-Realize/dp/1950367339) Amanda also hosts the podcast, Find Your Passion Career. (https://findyourpassioncareer.com/podcast/) Resources in This Episode: Want tips on how to feel more qualified in your job search? Follow Amanda on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amandanachman/)and grab a copy of her new book, “#Qualified: You Are More Impressive than You Realize.” ((https://www.amazon.com/QUALIFIED-More-Impressive-Than-Realize/dp/1950367339)) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Finding your next position involves more than just salary negotiations and seeking out a great company culture. A good job will allow you to be the same person at work as you are at home. But how do you find an employer like that? It all starts with research and self-awareness, says Find Your Dream Job guest Shelli Romero. Take some time to figure out the legacy you want to leave and the values that matter most to you. Then research employers and set up informational interviews with the companies that seem to be a good fit with your personal values. About Our Guest: Shelli Romero (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-romero-mpa-opmcp-6532162/) is the president of Rose City Chica. It’s a career coaching firm that focuses on women, people of color, and GLBTQ communities. Resources in This Episode: If you need expert help finding your next job, connect with Shelli on LinkedIn, (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-romero-mpa-opmcp-6532162/) and mention you heard her on Find Your Dream Job. From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Too many job seekers don’t use their LinkedIn page to its full potential. Instead of treating it like another place to show your resume, Find Your Dream Job guest Justin Nguyen says you need to see your LinkedIn account as a way to connect with the companies you want to work for. Each section of your LinkedIn page serves a purpose, from your photo to the copy you add. Justin also shares a specific strategy for making connections with the employers you’re interested in. About Our Guest: Justin Nguyen (https://www.linkedin.com/in/justingcgu/) is the founder of GetChoGrindUp. It's a movement to help students navigate college. Justin also hosts the podcast, Declassified College. (https://getchogrindup.com/podcasts/) Resources in This Episode: If you’re a college student who needs career education in a fun and informative format, be sure to listen to Justin’s podcast, Declassified College. (https://getchogrindup.com/podcasts/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As a job seeker, your first inclination is probably to start sending out resumes as quickly as possible. But what if you adopted a different strategy? What if, instead of submitting dozens of applications, you volunteered in your community or took on contract work doing the things you love and are good at? On this bonus episode of Find Your Dream Job, Meghan Sinnott (https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghansinnott/)tells us how she used volunteering to build up her self-confidence and skill set, and how strong connections brought her next job to her instead of her having to look for it. Learn more about Meghan’s career history below in this installment of our Success Stories series. (https://www.macslist.org/articles/success-stories) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do you approach your job search with an “I could” attitude? If your response to job openings is, “I could do that,” it’s time to change your strategy because hiring managers aren’t looking for someone who “could” do the job, says Find Your Dream Job guest Mandy Allen. They want someone who has done the job or is excited about doing it. Mandy suggests looking for the common thread in your past work experience, both paid and volunteer. What is the thing you can’t help but do? That thing is likely your natural gifting or passion, so head into the job search process with that unique skillset in mind. About Our Guest: Mandy Allen (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandygallen/) is the talent and culture manager at AHA Strategy and Creative Agency. It’s an independent women-owned agency in Vancouver, Washington. Resources in This Episode: Mandy welcomes connections through Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ahapdx/?hl=en) and on her LinkedIn. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandygallen/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are you unhappy in your current job and considering a career change? How can you know whether you should change careers or just switch jobs within the same field? Find Your Dream Job guest Cynthia Pong says you need to know why you want to make a change before starting over. You begin by asking questions about why you’re unhappy and what your career goals are. Cynthia recommends making small pivots unless you’re paralyzed and feeling miserable in your job. If that’s the case, Cynthia says to go ahead and make any change and course-correct later. About Our Guest: Cynthia Pong (https://www.linkedin.com/in/embracechangenyc/)is a feminist career strategist, speaker, and author. Cynthia is on a mission to help women of color to get the money, power, and respect they deserve. Resources in This Episode: Check out all the free resources Cynthia offers on her site, embracechange.nyc/covid-19-career-guide-women-of-color-job-seekers (https://embracechange.nyc/covid-19-career-guide-women-of-color-job-seekers) If you need help making a career change, grab a copy of Cynthia’s new book, “Don't Stay in Your Lane: The Career Change Guide for Women of Color.” (https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Stay-Your-Lane-Career/dp/1735336300) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

All too often, we see layoffs as a problem instead of an opportunity. Yes, you likely need a steady income, but if you take any job you can find, you’re going to be unhappy down the road. How can you spend the layoff time productively? Find Your Dream Job guest Simone Morris says you start by getting in the driver’s seat of your career. Find gig work to put food on the table and then get serious about figuring out who you are, what you want, and where you want to be. Simone says you need to be proactive in developing relationships, learning new skills, and building your personal brand. About Our Guest: Simone Morris (https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonemorris/) is a speaker, author, and coach. She helps job seekers with career planning, partnerships, and branding. Resources in This Episode: Learn more about the career services Simone offers by visiting her website at www.connectwithsimone.com.(http://www.connectwithsimone.com/) If you’re ready to be in the driver’s seat of your career, tune in to Simone’s podcast, The Power of Owning Your Career. (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-power-of-owning-your-career-podcast/id1447297703) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’re looking for a job you will love and where you can make a difference, you need a custom resume and cover letter for every application you turn in. Find Your Dream Job guest Monica Haut says custom application materials begin with the specific company name, the keywords used in the job listing, and the unique skills you bring to the table. Monica also stresses the importance of keeping the resume concise, with plenty of white space. Custom applications give you the greatest opportunity to find your dream job. About Our Guest: Monica Haut (https://www.linkedin.com/in/monica-haut-4735449/) is the human resources manager at Hopworks Urban Brewery. (http://www.hopworksbeer.com) It’s a family-owned and operated company that employs more than 100 people across the Pacific Northwest. Resources in This Episode: Learn more about Hopworks Urban Brewery at www.hopworksbeer.com. (http://www.hopworksbeer.com) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do you wake up every morning dreading going to work? Not because of a bad boss or work environment, but because you aren’t fulfilled in the work you do? If so, Find Your Dream Job guest, Anuja Sinha, says it may be time to reinvent yourself. Reinventing yourself is a deeper process than merely switching jobs, says Anuja. It’s about figuring out who you are and what you want. Your job impacts your entire life, so why stay in a position that is draining you? Anuja recommends taking the time necessary to discover your purpose and finding a job that suits that purpose. And if you do it right, you’ll never have to do it again. About Our Guest: Anuja Sinha (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anuja-sinha/) is the human resources generalist at Boys & Girls Aid. (https://www.boysandgirlsaid.org/) It’s a foster and adoption agency that has built lifelong connections in Oregon since 1885. Resources in This Episode: For more information on the services offered by Boys and Girls Aid, visit their website at boysandgirlsaid.org. (https://www.boysandgirlsaid.org/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If it’s been a while since you did a job search, you might feel a bit rusty. And that’s completely normal. One of your first priorities should be identifying the people who will help you work through the process, whether that’s through introductions to others in your chosen industry or simply standing by as emotional back-up. On this bonus episode of Find Your Dream Job, Chris Ling (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurisuringu/) and I talk about his move from lawyer to data engineer. Chris shares how networking with others and practicing the skills necessary for his new career helped him achieve his career goals. Learn more about Chris’s career history below in this installment of our Success Stories series. (https://www.macslist.org/articles/success-stories) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When you submit a job application, you’re adding your resume to a stack of resumes. Is there any way to make yours stand out to a recruiter? According to Find Your Dream Job guest Samantha Kennen, the answer is yes. Samantha suggests beginning with enthusiasm. Show your excitement for the position by being specific about what you would bring to the job. Samantha also recommends sharing numbers to quantify your skills whenever possible, as well as listing clear objectives or career goals near the top of your customized resume. About Our Guest: Samantha Kennen (https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthakennen/) is the human resources director at Grand Central Bakery. (https://www.grandcentralbakery.com/) Her company’s hand-crafted breads and pastries are beloved locally and recognized nationally. Resources in This Episode: Connect with Samantha on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/samanthakennen/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthakennen/) To learn more about Grand Central Bakery, visit their website at www.grandcentralbakery.com/. (http://www.grandcentralbakery.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’re one of several hundred applicants for a job, you can’t afford to stand by and hope your resume gets noticed. You need to find a side door to get in. But how do you find it, and how do you best use it when you do? Your first step, says Find Your Dream Job guest Dana Pratt, is to tailor your resume for the specific company. Next, Dana recommends using business tools and resources to see if you have a connection inside the company. Don’t hesitate to reach out to anyone, online or in person, who could make an introduction for you. About Our Guest: Dana Pratt (https://www.linkedin.com/in/danacpratt/) is the founder of DCP Training and Talent Development. Her company helps employers with performance consulting, leadership development, and talent management. Resources in This Episode: To learn more about the services Dana offers, visit her website at https://www.dcptraining.net/. (https://www.dcptraining.net/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One great way to find your dream job is by getting in on the ground floor of a new field or industry. In today’s job market, the cannabis industry is wide open for growth and expansion as adult-use is legalized in more states. If you want to get into the field of cannabis, Find Your Dream Job guest Ryan Rosenfeld suggests you begin with education. Then, figure out which arm of the industry you’re most interested in, from growing to the C-Suite, and reach out to cannabis companies to inquire about hiring opportunities based on your skillset. About Our Guest: Ryan Rosenfeld (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-r-rosenfeld-greenforce/) is the president of Greenforce Staffing. It’s a full-service full-service staffing and employment agency for the cannabis industry. Resources in This Episode: Find out more about how you can get into the cannabis industry by visiting Ryan’s website at greenforcestaffing.com. (https://greenforcestaffing.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you start a job search by saying you’re open to anything, you’re really saying that you have no idea what you want. And if you don’t know what you want, how will you convince a hiring manager that you’re the right fit for a job opening? Instead of being “open to anything,” Find Your Dream Job guest Corbin C. says you have to be focused on finding a job that you will enjoy and that you are qualified for. Corbin advises not wasting time applying for jobs you don’t actually want, and learning to apply the experience you have to a specific position, even if that’s mostly volunteer experience. About Our Guest: Corbin C (https://www.linkedin.com/in/corbinc/) is a career and technology advisor at Boly:Welch. It's a B Corp that offers recruiting, staffing, and executive search services. Resources in This Episode: For more information on the workshops that Corbin and his colleagues offer for job seekers, visit https://bolywelch.com/jobseekers/. (https://bolywelch.com/jobseekers/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresum Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Finding a new job can present many challenges for anyone, but for those job seekers who are older, those challenges can sometimes seem insurmountable. While ageism is illegal, it remains an obstacle for many people hoping to change careers. On this bonus episode of Find Your Dream Job, Lisa Lawrence (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-lawrence-77806211/) and I discuss how she overcame the stigma of being an older worker and used her years of experience to her advantage. Lisa also shares the necessity of educating yourself on your chosen field and finding common ground between the career you’re leaving and the one you’re hoping to begin. Learn more about Lisa’s career history below in this installment of our Success Stories series. (https://www.macslist.org/articles/success-stories) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you are currently searching for your next position, what is it that you’re looking for? Are you interested in moving up to the next level or do you want to change fields? Perhaps you want to explore a new location. Before you apply for a new job, Find Your Dream Job guest Felicia Rivers says you have to figure out what’s driving you to make the change. After you identify your driver, choose companies that will meet that desire. But, Felicia says, don’t skip doing your homework. Going into an interview unprepared is a sign to a hiring manager that you aren’t really interested in the position or the organization. About Our Guest: Felicia Rivers (https://www.linkedin.com/in/feliciarivers/) is the director of talent at the Tillamook Creamery Association, a farmer-owned dairy cooperative headquartered in Tillamook County, Oregon. Felicia has almost 20 years of experience in talent acquisition. Resources in This Episode: From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’re applying for certain jobs just because you think you should, maybe you need a new strategy. It’s easy to let fear hold you back or make you think you have to settle for a position that’s not going to fulfill you or meet your needs, says Find Your Dream Job guest Jackie Mitchell. What you need, Jackie says, is a mindset shift. You need to get clear on what you want and develop the confidence to go after it. Focusing on what you want instead of what you think you should accept is much more likely to land you in a fulfilling and satisfying role. About Our Guest: Jackie Mitchell is a certified career coach. She helps professional women feel fulfilled, achieve financial goals, and have well-rounded careers and lives. Resources in This Episode: If you’re a high-achieving, professional woman and you’re ready to take your career to the next level, check out Jackie’s services at www.jackiemitchellcareerconsulting.com/.(https://www.jackiemitchellcareerconsulting.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’re a job seeker in the current market, you know how crowded that market is. Excellent references and a professional resume are no longer enough to get you the job you want. To stand out to an employer, you must be strategic about communicating your unique skillset, says Find Your Dream Job guest Sarah Friedell O’Connell. How do you do that? Sarah says you start by developing your personal brand. Get clarity on the positions you’re interested in and on the value, you bring to a company. Sarah also recommends using branding exercises to build your confidence in what you have to offer. About Our Guest: Sarah Friedell O'Connell (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahfriedelloconnell/) is an executive coach and the owner of ChangePoint Advisors. (https://www.changepointadvisors.com/) It’s a firm that helps senior executives navigate career changes. Resources in This Episode: Are you a senior executive working through a career transition? Find out how Sarah can help you by visiting her website at www.changepointadvisors.com/. (https://www.changepointadvisors.com/) From our Sponsor: Find Your Dream Job is brought to you by TopResume.(http://macslist.org/topresume) Top Resume has helped more than 400,000 professionals land more interviews and get hired faster. Get a free review of your resume today from one of Top Resume’s expert writers. (http://macslist.org/topresume) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.