Job Search Tips From a Recruiter Who Has Been on Both Sides of the Hiring Process

Navigating the job search process can feel like a maze, with its endless applications, interviews, and the ever-daunting prospect of rejection. Nicole Fernandez-Valle , who is a recruiter and content creator, offers a unique perspective on making the job hunt less painful and more effective. She has been on both sides of the hiring table and often shares her insights on how to approach the process like a recruiter — and ultimately increase your odds of getting hired.

I sat down with Nicole for a recent episode of my Get Hired podcast. Her tips are really key to navigating a job search in today's difficult hiring landscape. Some of her top tips are below, but you can also hear them on the full episode by clicking here . A transcript of the conversation is available by clicking here .

Understand the Purpose of Each Step

Nicole encourages job seekers to learn about the “why” behind each stage in the hiring process. Understanding the purpose of each stage can help combat frustration and increase the odds of moving to the next step.

For example, a candidate may feel stuck and frustrated by the lack of feedback after an interview. Nicole explains that, often, companies “have a lot of policies around not being able to give any feedback post interviews” due to legal concerns. Knowing that fact allows job seekers to move forward without waiting on feedback. They can find alternative ways to improve, like practicing with mock interviews or seeking feedback from a mentor or career coach.

“Figure out how to hack [the process] to make it work for you,” Nicole says. This mindset can help you stop getting hung up on the parts of the process that you can’t control.

Ask for Insights from Recruiters

If you’re lucky enough to work with a responsive recruiter, use that opportunity to gain valuable information. Nicole suggests job seekers ask recruiters about common questions that get asked throughout the process or specific skills the hiring manager wants in a new hire. This can help you understand what’s expected at each stage and tailor your responses accordingly.

If you’re not getting guidance from a recruiter, do some research on the different types of interviews — like technical screens or behavioral interviews — to help you better understand what the hiring team is looking for in each round. Be sure to reach out to anyone you may know at the company (or who has worked at the company), too.

Seek Small Wins to Stay Motivated

The job search process can be long and emotionally draining. Recognizing and celebrating small wins is essential for keeping morale high.?

“If you are able to land a coffee chat or just an informational interview with somebody… that’s a win,” Nicole says. Even getting through initial interview rounds or receiving positive feedback can be wins and signs of progress.

Celebrating these milestones, no matter how small, can provide a much-needed boost. “Job seeking loves momentum,” says Nicole, explaining that a positive outlook often leads to better interactions and increased motivation.

Diversify Your Strategy

Nicole stresses the importance of being adaptable during the job search. “If one path to getting a job isn’t working for you… you need to try something else,” she says.

For example, many job seekers stick to the “spray and pray” approach, submitting as many applications as possible. However, Nicole says that sometimes taking the time to network or enhance your online presence yields better results. “People land jobs a hundred different ways,” she adds, so don’t be afraid to mix things up.

Temper Your Expectations

It’s easy to get attached to a job opportunity, especially if it feels like a perfect fit. Nicole warns that this approach can be dangerous.?

“Sometimes, it’s just about the other candidate,” she says, reminding job seekers that hiring decisions are often influenced by factors beyond their control. Sometimes, the hiring manager might choose someone who went to their alma mater, or who was already known to the company.

By keeping expectations in check and focusing on what you can control, you’ll be less likely to feel crushed by rejections and more inclined to keep moving forward.

Consistency Is Key

Nicole stresses the importance of showing up consistently, even when the process feels unending.

“In my own job search, I was posting for months before somebody ended up seeing one of my posts, realizing that there was an open role in my next company.” The takeaway? Don’t underestimate the power of steady, consistent effort, whether it’s through applying, networking, or building your personal brand.

Job searching is rarely an easy journey, but these tips from Nicole can lead to a more structures and less emotionally taxing process.

Many job seekers play hard to get when looking for work. While that approach may sometimes work during tight job markets, a person will likely not get far with that attitude when they're applying to several employers. Eliana Goldstein , a well-known career coach, joined me on the latest episode of my Get Hired podcast to talk about the best approach that job seekers can take when pitching themselves to employers.?

A transcript of the show is available by clicking here . You can listen to the episode above or wherever you like to listen by clicking here .

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