The Applicant Network

“No one makes it on their own. The right people in your corner can change everything.”

"No one’s coming to save you. If you want the job, you’ve got to outwork, outthink and outlast everyone else in the room. Survival’s not about luck—it’s about preparation and grit..."

1. You Don’t Need a Perfect Job—Just the Right One for Now

Stop hunting for "The One." Jobs aren’t lifelong commitments anymore. The goal isn’t to find your "soulmate" in job form—it’s to find a role where you can learn, contribute and grow for the next chapter of your career.

Ask yourself:

• What kind of work excites me right now?
• What problems do I genuinely enjoy solving?
• What kind of environment (remote, hybrid, in-office) fits my life best today?

Once you have clarity, focus on roles that match your current reality—not a fantasy version of yourself.

2. Build a Simple, Honest Resume

Resumes don’t need bells and whistles; they need clarity and truth. Focus on accomplishments that show your impact—not just tasks. Think results and stories, not lists.

What to do ?

• One page is enough. No one wants to read your life story.
• Lead with outcomes: “Increased sales by 20%,” “Reduced onboarding time by 30%,” “Built a new process that saved the team 10 hours a week.”
• Cut the fluff. No need for generic jargon. If it sounds like it could be on anyone’s resume, delete it.

What not to do ??

• Avoid over-designed resumes that distract from the actual content.
• Keep it simple and concise.
• Fancy layouts and graphics confuse Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). If it can’t read it, no one will. Keep it clean and simple (scannable) for recruiters.

3. Your LinkedIn Profile Matters More Than Ever

Think of your LinkedIn as your professional storefront. It should tell a story—not just your job history.

How to optimize it:

• Write a headline that reflects who you are and what you do. "Helping SaaS Companies Simplify Complex Processes," not just “Project Manager.”
• About section = your elevator pitch. Short, punchy, human. Explain who you are, what you love doing, and why it matters.
• Engage and comment: Networking is now digital. Share insights, comment thoughtfully on posts in your field, and show up consistently.

4. It's WHO you Know—But It’s Different Now

"What you know gets you in the game. Who you know changes the outcome..."

Networking isn’t schmoozing at awkward events. It’s about building real connections. Relationships are the fastest way to land your next role.

How to network in 2025:

• Start with your circle. Reach out to people you know. Reconnect. Let them know what you’re up to and what you’re looking for.
• Ask for advice, not favors. People love to share their perspective. You’ll get way more insight this way. Also, ask what you can do for them.
• Be active online. Join the conversations happening in your industry. Comment thoughtfully. Share ideas. Help where you can.

5. Know How Companies Actually Hire

The way companies hire hasn’t changed much—referrals still open doors—but the tools have. Before a human even sees your resume, algorithms are deciding if you make the cut. Knowing how this works gives you an edge.

What to do:

• Tailor your application. One-size-fits-all does not work. Customize your resume to match the role. (If you're applying)
• Keywords matter. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan for them. Use language from the job description (but don’t keyword-stuff).
• Follow up. No response after two weeks? Follow up politely. Be persistent, not pushy.

6. Be the Solution

Employers hire to solve problems, not give you a job. Frame your experience in terms of how you can help.

Think like this:

• What’s the problem this role exists to solve?
• How can my experience solve that problem?
• How can I make the hiring manager’s life easier?

7. Interviews: Be Curious, Be Real

Interviews aren’t exams. They’re conversations. Be real, be curious, and remember—you’re interviewing them too. Honesty wins over rehearsed answers every time.

How to stand out:

• Do your homework. Know the company, their challenges, and what’s happening in their industry.
• Ask thoughtful questions. (Example: “What’s the biggest challenge this role will face in its first 90 days?”)
• Tell stories. Use real examples from your experience to back up your answers.

If it sounds like a script, it probably is. Keep it human. (AI Robots haven't taken over...yet.)

8. Don’t Get Stuck in the Waiting Game

Job hunting feels like waiting in line for a ride that never comes. Don’t just apply and wait—keep moving. Momentum is everything. (Keep it flowing!)

What to do:

• Keep networking. Stay visible and connected.
• Apply for multiple roles. Options give you power.
• Work on side projects. Freelance, build something, or learn new skills in the meantime.

Momentum builds confidence. Confidence gets you hired.

9. Take Care of Yourself

Job hunting is tough. It can drain you if you let it. Take breaks. Mind your health (mental/physical). Reflect. Celebrate the small wins. Remember: no job is worth your well-being. If something feels wrong, it probably is.

10. When in Doubt, Be Human

Automation is everywhere, but the human touch still matters most. Be polite. Be authentic. Be clear. People remember kindness, honesty, and the ones who make things easy.

Final Word

Jobs are temporary, but your reputation, skills, and network are forever. Focus on those, and you’ll never be truly out of opportunities.

?? Note To Readers:

• These are my opinions, shaped by experience and inspired by all the great thinkers and creators before me. Take them for what they are—a perspective through my lens, not an absolute truth.

• My advice follows the Just Sharing Principle. I’m "Not" prescribing solutions; I’m "Sharing" ideas and observations. If they resonate with you, great. If not, that’s okay too. Take what’s useful and leave the rest.