The Job Search System: Navigating ATS, Networking, and Career Alignment | EP13

Are you struggling with a career transition or wondering why your experience isn’t translating in today’s job market? In this episode of The Leadership Story, host Lisa Jones sits down with two-time bestselling author Irene Chukwuma to break down the job search system.In this insightful interview, Irene shares her journey from West Africa to the US, navigating the job market as an immigrant, and overcoming challenges in career re-entry. She discusses strategic job search techniques, the importance of networking, and her inspiring approach to career resilience, including her books on job searching and career restarting.Key Topics We Explored:* ATS Optimization: Why alignment with the job description matters more than application volume.* Strategic Networking: How to find advocates to speak for you in rooms you haven’t entered yet.* The “Restart” Mindset: Leveraging your experience and international credentials in a new market.* Resilience as Leadership: Staying consistent through market ambiguity and rejection.Chapters:00:00 The Reality of the Invisible Job Search02:15 Navigating the U.S. Job Market as an Immigrant05:55 The Importance of Networking09:45 Writing and Publishing Books13:14 The Concept of Restarting vs. Starting Over15:07 Advice for Job Seekers in a Tough Market16:11 Defining Leadership: ReliabilityJoin the Community!Subscribe on Substack for exclusive content:Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.comFollow on Instagram: @theleadershipstoryReal Women. Real Leadership. Real Resilience! ™Connect with IreneLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/irenechukwuma-riskmanagementIrene’s Books101 Job Search Tips for Immigrants and New GradsShe Didn’t Start Over, She RestartedConnect with LisaFollow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com