48. Job Search Success Insider Tips for Career Growth

Job Search — SECRETS OF THE CORPORATE GAME — EPISODE 48

With the average job search lasting 4–7 months, adopting a targeted approach to career advancement is more important than ever. Today, Kendall Berg explains why 83% of positions are filled through internal connections and why you should prioritize internal opportunities before seeking external roles. She discusses the significance of identifying 2-3 job titles that align with your skills, tailoring your resume and cover letter for each position, and leveraging Google’s job search feature to find the most recent job postings.

Regarding interviews, That Career Coach, shares tips to make a strong first impression, prepare thoughtful questions, and maintain positive body language—even in virtual settings. Kendall also covers best practices for handling job transitions, such as negotiating counteroffers, resigning professionally, and navigating salary discussions.

Master Your Job Interview Techniques for Career Success

What makes a memorable interview? The truth is, that hiring managers often make their decision within the first five minutes. That initial interaction is your chance to stand out and make a lasting impression. Forget about the usual pleasantries. When asked, “Tell me about yourself,” it’s crucial to highlight what makes you unique and what value you bring. It’s not about your entire life story, but rather who you are today and how you can contribute.

Furthermore, Kendall explains why establishing a connection is key. This might involve sharing something intriguing about yourself or asking thoughtful questions that show you’re engaged and well-prepared. Don’t settle for generic queries—dive into specifics that matter to you and the role. Whether it’s about your growth trajectory or team development, these questions reveal your priorities and help you assess if the position aligns with your career goals. Make sure your questions reflect a genuine interest in how you can contribute and grow with the company. That’s how you leave a lasting impression.

Navigating Counteroffers: When to Stay or Go

When is it the right time to discuss a counteroffer? If you’re satisfied with your current role, love your team, and someone offers you more money, it might be worth discussing a counteroffer with your boss. However, if you’re leaving due to other factors like a lack of upward mobility or a toxic work environment, a counteroffer won’t solve those problems.

Kendall discusses how it’s crucial to evaluate why you’re considering a new job before approaching your boss. Never reveal your job search until you have a solid offer, as it could lead to being managed out. If money or title is the sole reason, approach your boss calmly and non-demandingly with the details, emphasizing your happiness in the current role and giving them a chance to match the offer. If not, resign professionally, keeping your notice short and focused on the future. This approach allows you to maintain professionalism and leave on good terms, regardless of the outcome.

Key Takeaways

🎯 Job Search Strategies (00:00 – 10:07)

• Average career progression is every 2–3 years, but the reality is 4.3 years
• Current job market, taking 4–7 months to land a new job
• Look for internal moves first before external opportunities
• 83% of roles are filled by someone the hiring manager knows
• Identify 2-3 job titles that fit your skills and aspirations
• Create a tailored resume and cover letter for each title
• Use Google’s job search feature to find recent postings
• Target 3–5 companies for networking and relationship building

📈 Interview Preparation and Techniques (10:08 – 17:39)

• The first 5 minutes of the interview, are crucial for making an impression
• Prepare a strong answer for ‘Tell me about yourself’
• Have specific, relevant questions prepared for the interviewer
• Maintain good body language, even in virtual interviews
• Be prepared with stories, leadership style, communication style
• Research the company and interviewer beforehand

🔨 Handling Job Transitions (17:40–25:26)

• Only discuss counteroffer if money is the sole reason for leaving
• Don’t inform your boss about your job search until you have a solid offer
• If staying is possible, approach the boss non-demandingly about the matching offer
• If leaving, keep your resignation short and simple
• Provide constructive feedback only if it could lead to positive change
• Consider proactive salary negotiation if market research supports it

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That Career Coach

Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach?

Follow her on Instagram: @thatcareercoach_

Check out her courses on the website: https://thatcareercoach.net/

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