The #1 Mistake Mid-Career Professionals Make in Their Job Search (And How to Fix It)

Let’s be real for a second:

You’ve been in your career for a decade or more. You’ve achieved success by most people’s standards. But here you are, scrolling job boards, tweaking your resume, and wondering why the six-figure roles that?feel?right keep slipping through your fingers.

Why?

Because most job seekers make?one crucial mistake—they focus on the?superficial.

Here’s what that looks like:

• Constantly rewriting your resume but feeling disconnected from your career.
• Thinking “If I can just get this title or salary, things will be better.”
• Following the same job search playbook you used 5 or even 10 years ago.

But the truth is, a?fulfilling six-figure role?isn’t just about more money or a new title. It's about finding a career that aligns with who you are?NOW, not who you were.

The Hidden Job Search Trap: Fixing the Outside, Ignoring the Inside

Many mid-career professionals are stuck in the trap of?polishing the surface?without addressing the deeper issues:

• You're exhausted, burnt out, and need balance—not just a bigger paycheck.
• You’re feeling a nagging sense that something is?missing—but can’t quite put your finger on it.
• You’ve outgrown your current career but are unsure how to transition into something more meaningful.

Yet, what do we do??Update LinkedIn. Edit the resume.?Hope that the right recruiter magically stumbles across us.

But here's the thing: The superficial approach won’t bring you the satisfaction or alignment you truly crave. You need to dig deeper.

3 Steps to Stop Chasing the Superficial and Start Finding Alignment

If you’re ready to stop going through the motions and land a role that gives you purpose and financial reward, here are three steps to get started:

1. Reflect on Your Core Values and Priorities?Ask yourself,?What matters most to me right now??Is it work-life balance? Is it contributing to something bigger than yourself? Get crystal clear on what you value today—not what was important 10 years ago.
2. Redefine Success on Your Own Terms?Society has taught us to measure success through titles, salaries, and external validation. But it’s time to flip that script. What does a fulfilling career?feel?like to you? Whether it's creative freedom, leadership, or social impact, define success for yourself.
3. Look Beyond Job Titles and Paychecks?When evaluating opportunities, ask: Does this role align with my values? Will it allow me to thrive as a person, not just an employee? This shift in perspective will help you filter through roles that offer?real fulfillment?and avoid those that only promise superficial rewards.

Ready for a Career That Aligns with Who You Are?

You’re not just looking for another job—you’re looking for something that feels like?home. A career that supports your life, your values, and your goals.

That’s where my?60-Day Journey to a Fulfilling and Six-Figure Career?program comes in. Together, we’ll dive into:

• Clarifying your unique value and aligning it with your ideal career.
• Mastering the job search with a combination of AI tools and personalized coaching.
• Building a career strategy that reflects your purpose and long-term fulfillment.

Stop chasing the superficial and start building a career you actually?love.

>> Message me to learn more about the program and join today!

P.S.?Not ready to join just yet? No worries—be sure to follow me Veena Ramaswamy on LinkedIn for more insights on aligning your career with your true self.