1. The 80/20 Rule: Flip the Script
Stop thinking of your job search as a numbers game where success comes from sending 100 applications. The reality is that the vast majority of jobs are filled through referrals and internal connections.
The new 80/20 rule of job searching:
20% Formal Applications: Use this time for tailored resumes/applications for roles you are highly qualified for and genuinely excited about.
80% Strategic Outreach & Networking: Dedicate the bulk of your time to market research, engaging contacts, and building your personal brand. This is where high-quality leads and referrals originate.
Your goal is to become the known candidate, not the random applicant.
2. LinkedIn Power-Ups: Your Personal Landing Page
LinkedIn is no longer just a digital CV; it's your professional landing page, research tool, and content platform.
Optimize for Discovery
Headline: Ditch the generic "Seeking New Opportunities." Instead, focus on the value you offer and the roles you target.
Example: B2B Sales Strategist | Driving 20%+ Revenue Growth | Expert in Customer Journey Mapping
About Section: Write this section in the first person ("I") and use it to tell your story, highlighting impact and results, not just responsibilities. Use keywords relevant to the jobs you want so recruiters can find you.
Profile Photo: Make sure it’s recent, professional, and friendly—not a blurry selfie or a holiday photo.
Strategic Engagement
Become a Creator: Switch on Creator Mode (found under your profile dashboard). This lets you select relevant skills/topics. Start sharing one insightful post per week related to your industry. This establishes you as an active, knowledgeable professional, not just someone looking for a job.
Follow the Right People: Instead of connecting with random recruiters, follow hiring managers, team leads, and high-impact employees at your target companies. Engage with their posts authentically (comment, don't just 'Like').
3. Tapping Up Your Contacts: The Art of Warm Outreach
The most effective way to use your network is to ask for advice, not a job. This low-pressure approach is more likely to open doors.
The Outreach Scripts
Always keep your messages concise, personalised, and respectful of the other person's time.
Script 1: For Former Colleagues/Managers (Tier 1 & 2 Contacts)
This is a request for advice on career direction and validation of your skills.
Subject: Quick Career Insight Request - [Your Name]
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m currently exploring my next career move and wanted to get your seasoned perspective. I’m moving into [Target Area, e.g., product marketing] and know you have extensive experience there.
I’m trying to double check if my skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2] are the best fit for this move. Do you have 15 minutes next week for a quick call/ meeting? I'd love to hear your thoughts on the current landscape.
Thanks so much,
[Your Name]
Script 2: For New, High-Value Connections (Tier 3 Contacts at Target Companies)
Use this when reaching out to someone you admire but don't know personally. Your goal is an informational interview.
Subject: Quick Question on [Company Name]'s [Department Name] Culture
Hi [Name],
I’m really interested in the work you’re doing at [Company Name], particularly [mention a specific recent project or achievement you read about]. Your role as [Their Role] seems fascinating.
As I map out my own career path into this space, I was hoping to learn from someone who has successfully navigated it. Would you be open to a quick 10-minute virtual coffee chat in the coming weeks? I have a few questions about your team’s focus on [Specific Topic, e.g., remote collaboration].
No worries if your schedule is too tight,
[Your Name]
4. Time Allocation: Where to Spend Your 30 Hours
he key is to remember: Every conversation, whether it leads to a job or not, is market research. You are gaining insight, building confidence, and planting seeds that will grow later.
