The Job Hunting Podcast

Episode 334 - Executive headhunter Gerard Miles explains how search firms identify, assess, and approach candidates, and what experienced professionals can do to become more visible, relevant, and memorable to the recruiters who matter.Many experienced professionals reach a point in their career where the job market starts to feel strangely opaque.Earlier in their careers, they could apply for advertised roles, hear back from recruiters, attend interviews, and move through a relatively visible hiring process. But at senior levels, the rules change.The hiring process is quieter. The shortlist may be built before a role ever becomes public. And the people being considered are often not actively looking.This is why so many senior executives become frustrated when they approach the job market the same way they did ten or twenty years ago. They update their resume, apply for roles online, wait for responses, and assume that if they are good enough, the market will find them.But executive recruitment does not work that way.In my conversation with Gerard Miles, a headhunter specialising in the games and entertainment sector and co-founder of Mission One, we discussed what really happens behind the scenes in senior hiring. And although Gerard works in a very specific niche, the lessons are not limited to gaming.Replace the word “gaming” with mining, education, retail, health, technology, financial services, or government, and the same principles apply.At the senior executive level, hiring is less about applications and more about relevance, reputation, timing, and trust. Read the full Blog on the Website 31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 The Journey into Gaming and Entertainment06:52 Headhunting in the Gaming Sector12:25 Sourcing Candidates: The Headhunter’s Process18:33 Navigating the Hidden Job Market21:16 Patterns of Successful Candidates24:27 The Current State of Gaming and Entertainment31:15 Building Relationships with Headhunters39:17 Effective Networking Strategies42:00 Navigating Career Opportunities in 2026Links mentioned in this episode:Gerard's recruitment firm, Mission OneGerard's Podcast, Mission One: The Executive EdgeGerard's LinkedIn ProfileHalt and Catch FireAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 333 - Workforce participation drops sharply after 45, despite strong demand for experienced talent. In this episode, we explore the structural barriers, age bias, and outdated career models holding professionals back, and what individuals, employers, and governments can do to better support longer, more productive working lives.We have all fallen in love with NASA's crew for its Artemis II mission, the first crewed mission to orbit the Moon in more than half a century. What stood out to me was the composition of the team. Every astronaut selected was Generation Xer, in their 40s and 50s.When the stakes are high, we do not default to youth. We choose experience. That's what NASA did . They choose judgment. They choose people who have navigated complexity before and can do so again under pressure.And yet, in the labour market, we continue to behave as if the opposite were true.This contradiction sits at the heart of what has been described as the “longevity paradox”: We are living longer, healthier lives, but participating less in the workforce as we age. For the corporate professionals I work with, this is not an abstract concept. It is a lived experience, often emerging in their mid-40s and becoming more pronounced thereafter.This issue has become more personal for me recently. At the age of 54, I have just become a grandmother. It has prompted a different kind of reflection about time, work, and what the next decades should look like. Like many of my clients, I am not thinking about slowing down. I am thinking about how to work in a way that is sustainable, meaningful, and aligned with the realities of a longer life.The question is whether our institutions are prepared to support that. Read the full Blog on the Website 31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction to the Longevity Economy Paradox06:14 Understanding Workforce Participation and Aging09:02 Personal Experiences with Career Transitions12:09 The Role of Technology and AI in the Workforce15:22 Challenges of Ageism in Recruitment18:09 Strategies for Job Seekers Over 5021:23 The Importance of Networking and Community Support24:16 Midlife Career Checkup: Questions to Reflect On26:57 Final Thoughts and Action Steps for ListenersLinks mentioned in this episode:Michele Lemmens' LinkedInRebecca Hall's LinkedInAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 332 - Natalie Moore joins me to explore what leaders and professionals need most in 2026: courage, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and space to think. We also discuss burnout, work design, hybrid work, and how career pivots can happen through small, intentional steps. The themes in this week's podcast episode are not really about personal reinvention in the lifestyle sense, but they're also not hot takes about work culture. They sit at the intersection, as so many issues do when it comes to career and our personal lives. How to we reinvent leadership, organisational design, career strategy, and human behaviour so we can cope with the new ways of working? That is where many of my clients live. They are not junior workers trying to “find their passion.” They are experienced corporate professionals, senior managers, and executives trying to make good decisions in a labour market that has become harder to read, less forgiving, and more emotionally demanding. Here is what I keep seeing in my coaching work. My clients are not simply struggling with job search mechanics. Yes, they need resumes, LinkedIn positioning, networking strategies, and interview preparation. But those are not the only things making this moment difficult. Many are also dealing with return-to-office mandates they did not choose, leadership cultures that speak the language of wellbeing without redesigning work, and AI-driven hiring processes that make the market feel more opaque than ever. LinkedIn reported in January that nearly two-thirds of people say finding a job has become more challenging, while U.S. applicants per open role have doubled since spring 2022. At the same time, 93% of recruiters say they plan to increase their use of AI in 2026. Those are not small shifts. They change how people experience work, how they think about security, and how they approach career planning. In my conversation with Natalie Moore on The Job Hunting Podcast (332), what emerged most clearly was that professionals who are coping best right now are not necessarily the most confident. They are the ones who are able to think clearly under pressure, notice when an environment is no longer working for them, and act with intention before their options narrow. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 – Welcome Back: Natalie Moore Returns01:11 – Reinvention After Closing a Business03:10 – Headline Hopes for the End of 202606:42 – How Leaders Can Stop Reacting and Start Responding08:59 – True or False: Can Resilience Training Fix Burnout?09:47 – True or False: Will Good Workers Naturally Adapt to AI?10:55 – True or False: Do Career Pivots Require a Big Leap?12:42 – Three Questions to Ask When You Feel Flat at Work16:45 – What Stress and Burnout Really Look Like in High Performers21:45 – Listening to Your Body and Noticing Your Triggers24:03 – What We’re Leaving Behind in 202625:22 – Showing Up Differently in Business and on LinkedIn28:40 – Why Workplace Wellbeing Still Feels Surface-Level30:32 – Is It Time to Redesign the Workday?32:55 – When Training and Development Add to Burnout35:19 – The High-Performance Habits That Need to Go36:50 – Why White Space Matters at Work and in Job Search38:08 – Natalie’s Career Change Story and the Power of Slow Pivots39:21 – What Matters Most in 2026: Confidence, Courage, or Clarity?41:43 – AI, Human Work, and What Still Makes Us Valuable43:34 – The Human Capabilities Professionals Need Now45:44 – Final Thoughts and Where to Find NatalieLinks mentioned in this episode:Natalie Moore's LinkedIn ProfileFollow Josh Piterman on Instagram to find out when he's running breathwork workshops in MelbourneJosh Piterman Inside TimerEpisode 130 - Post-pandemic Stress and Other Factor Affecting Your Wellbeing at Work, with Natalie Moore and Lisa SaundersEpisode 72 - Systemic Gender Biases, Double Standards, Mental and Physical Dangers Affecting Women in the Workplace - with Hannah Piterman Ph.D.About the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 331 - Your experience may speak for itself on paper, but in interviews your body language is speaking too. Linda Clemons shares practical ways to project confidence, warmth, and authority so experienced professionals can perform better in interviews, networking events, and high-stakes conversations. In Episode 331 of The Job Hunting Podcast, I speak with Linda Clemons about body language, executive presence, and the ways experienced professionals are often misread in interviews. Our conversation explores how stress shows up physically, why long tenure can mask unhelpful communication habits, and what candidates can do to present themselves with greater clarity, warmth, and authority.Experienced professionals often assume that interview performance is mainly determined by the strength of their track record and the quality of their answers. That assumption makes sense. After all, senior candidates are usually selected for interview because their credentials already suggest competence. Yet many still leave the process confused by the outcome. They feel they answered well, understood the brief, and showed relevant experience, but did not turn the opportunity into an offer. In many cases, the missing factor is not substance. It is presentation in the broadest sense of the word.This does not mean superficial polish or fake self-confidence. It means the interaction between verbal and nonverbal communication: posture, tone, pace, facial expression, emotional regulation, and the overall impression of steadiness. Employers do not assess these factors separately from capability. They fold them into their judgment of capability. For experienced professionals, especially those who have spent a long time inside one organisation, this creates a specific challenge. They may be highly competent, but no longer practised in making that competence clear to strangers in a short, high-pressure setting.That issue came through clearly in my conversation with Linda Clemons, a global expert in nonverbal communication and executive presence. One of her most useful observations is that people are constantly judging alignment. They listen to the words, but they also notice whether the rest of the person appears to support them. When language, tone, movement, and emotional state line up, credibility rises. When they do not, doubt enters the room, even if nobody says it out loud.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 The Evolution of a Podcast Host01:14 Understanding Body Language and Nonverbal Communication04:04 The Impact of Posture on Communication06:55 Reading Nonverbal Cues in Real Life10:01 Preparing for Job Interviews12:56 Navigating Interview Dynamics16:01 The Importance of Presence in Communication18:17 Body Language and Interview Presence21:03 Navigating Behavioral Questions23:37 The Importance of Authentic Communication26:01 Understanding Communication Dynamics28:09 The TAP Framework: Truthful, Authentic, Purposeful30:33 Vulnerability in Leadership33:11 Emotional Barriers: Frozen, Flooding, and Flat38:00 The Impact of Long Tenure on Interview Performance43:35 Linda's Book and Final ThoughtsLinks mentioned in this episode:Linda Clemons LinkedIn ProfileLinda Clemons' BookAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 330 - Patrick Dunlop, organisational psychologist and Future of Work professor, shares what he learned from studying recruiters, what’s overhyped, what’s still painfully manual, and how experienced candidates can move with confidence through modern selection processes.Spend enough time around job seekers and you will hear the same diagnosis: “Hiring is broken.”Spend enough time around recruiters and you will hear a different one: “We’re drowning.”Both can be true. What has changed in the last few years is not simply the technology inside recruitment. It’s the volume, the noise, and the mismatch between what candidates think is happening and what is actually happening inside organisations.In my conversation with Professor Patrick Dunlop, an organisational psychologist at Curtin University, one theme kept resurfacing: the biggest misunderstanding is not about AI. It’s about realism. Hiring varies wildly from one organisation to the next, and much of what candidates assume is “automated” is still surprisingly manual, uneven, and dependent on human judgement.What follows is a structured, evidence-informed way to think about modern hiring if you are an experienced professional, particularly in your 40s and beyond.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Understanding Assessment Tools00:52 The Importance of Job Analysis03:48 Designing Effective Assessment Processes06:53 The Role of Simulations and Case Studies09:59 Concerns About Psychometric Testing12:56 Faking in Assessments and Its Implications15:50 Cultural Differences in Assessment Responses26:44 Cross-Cultural Assessment in Personality Testing30:57 Candidate Experience and Recruitment Processes36:10 The Impact of AI on Job Applications39:04 Adapting to New Technologies in Job Search49:19 Future Trends in Recruitment and AssessmentLinks mentioned in this episode:Patrick Dunlop's LinkedIn ProfileAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 329 - We unpack what interviewers are really reacting to, how to show agility at any age, and how to stay authentic while adapting to different cultures and expectations. I understand why Brené Brown and Adam Grant can say “thumbs down” on executive presence and get a standing ovation. In their conversation on Dare to Lead, they frame executive presence as “party of one” and contrast it with leadership as a “collective capability.” It’s a compelling point, and a necessary correction for leaders who confuse charisma with competence or confuse performative confidence with real stewardship.But in my day-to-day work as a career coach for experienced corporate professionals, executives, and senior technical specialists, executive presence is not a fad, a buzzword, or an outdated corporate relic. It is a hiring variable. It’s the most searched term on my podcast’s website. And pretending otherwise leaves job seekers at the mercy of unspoken rules.That’s why I devoted Episode 329 of The Job Hunting Podcast to executive presence, alongside two experts who don’t treat it as a personality type or a costume: Dr. Alexa Chilcutt, executive coach and faculty lead for the Johns Hopkins Carey Business School’s Executive Education Business Communication Certificate, and Dr. Carl DuPont, Associate Professor of Voice at Johns Hopkins University’s Peabody Institute and Executive Education faculty at Carey.What I took from our discussion is this: executive presence is real because the question isn’t whether it exists. The question is whether we teach it responsibly, in a way that helps professionals be read accurately, without forcing them into a narrow mould.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:My websiteMy InstagramSubscribe to my newsletterGroup coaching wait listWork with Renata: All my courses and coaching servicesAlexa Chilcutt, PhDCarl DuPont, DMAAlexa and Carl's websiteAlexa and Carl's book - for 25% discount, enter the code Pres26 at checkoutLinks mentioned in this episode:00:00 Introduction to Executive Presence01:51 Defining Executive Presence04:43 The Importance of Communication07:36 Challenging Traditional Views on Executive Presence09:54 Navigating Ageism in the Workplace12:52 Cultural Dissonance and Code Switching28:33 Authenticity vs. Performance in Executive Presence32:27 The Evolution of Personal Branding34:22 Navigating Cultural Expectations in Professional Appearance37:42 The Role of Voice in Executive Presence41:23 Embracing Diversity in Professional Narratives46:52 The Art of Communication: Finding Your Voice52:03 Overcoming Barriers to Executive PresenceAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 328 - I borrow two tools from elite sport psychology: the difference between thoughts and attention, and the difference between internal and external focus. You’ll learn how to stop fighting your nerves and start directing your attention.Job searching can feel deeply personal, but the mechanics of it are closer to a high-performance environment than most people want to admit. You are assessed in real time. You are compared, often invisibly, against other candidates. You are expected to communicate with clarity, confidence, and restraint while navigating uncertainty, rejection, and the emotional weight of change.For experienced corporate professionals and executives, this becomes even more complex. The stakes feel higher, the stories are longer, and the margin for error can seem smaller. Many of the people I work with are excellent at their jobs, yet they find the job search uniquely destabilising. That’s not because they are not capable. It’s because job hunting creates a different cognitive and emotional context than most leadership roles do.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 The Competitive Nature of Job Hunting03:26 Understanding Thoughts vs. Attention19:27 Internal vs. External Focus in Job Search33:02 Applying Focus Techniques in Real ScenariosLinks mentioned in this episode:My InstagramSubscribe to my newsletterGroup coaching wait listReset Your Career online courseAll my courses and coaching services:Video with Alex Cohen that I mentioned on the podcastMovie WimbledonNetflix series Break PointAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 327 - I share six tools I use with experienced professionals who feel stuck in job search. You will leave with clearer direction, a simple decision filter, and practical ways to build momentum. January has a particular sound in my inbox. It is the quiet urgency of people who are either ready for change or exhausted from trying. Many are senior professionals with decades of achievement behind them, now facing a job search that feels unfamiliar, slower, and strangely impersonal. The temptation is to treat that discomfort as a personal flaw. Please, do not. Instead, treat it as a signal. If you feel overwhelmed right now, you are not broken. You are overloaded. And the overload is not only emotional. It is structural. As 2026 begins, multiple signals point to a labor market that is “stuck in place,” with slow hiring and slow firing, and a growing divide between sectors that are hiring and those that are simply holding. That “low-hire, low-fire” reality creates a special kind of psychological strain for corporate job seekers. You can do everything “right” and still hear nothing. You can have a strong resume and still feel invisible. You can be an excellent leader and still find yourself tweaking a LinkedIn headline at midnight, as if the correct adjective will unlock a recruiter’s calendar. This is the context in which mindset stops being motivational fluff and becomes a practical career asset. The market is sending a clear message: there is less room for vague positioning, passive applications, and comfort-zone job searching. The good news is that experienced professionals are unusually well equipped for this moment, once they stop trying to recreate the last chapter and begin designing the next one. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Welcome to 2026: A New Beginning00:11 Changing Your Mindset for Job Searching04:17 Six Mindset Tools for Career Success07:22 Designing Your Professional Character10:34 Outsmarting Your Internal Monster14:44 The Third Person Audit for Clarity18:54 Taking Action: From Ideas to Execution20:52 Podcast Changes and Future EngagementLinks mentioned in this episode:My websiteSubscribe to my newsletterGroup coaching wait listRB Lnkdn Club, a support group to grow your LinkedIn presenceWork with Renata: All my courses and coaching servicesVideo I mentioned on the podcastAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 326 - Navigate career uncertainty with strategies to stay relevant amid AI disruptions and global shifts.Rebroadcasting as Episode 326 during our holiday break, this episode (originally released as Episode 295) continues to be one of the most practical and impactful guides for professionals feeling threatened by uncertainty in the job market, especially from AI.The job market feels like it's operating in a dense fog. For many professionals, particularly those in mid-to-senior corporate roles, navigating a career today is less like following a GPS and more like learning to read a compass in the dark. This uncertainty is not just emotional, it’s systemic. We’ve seen a wave of redundancies ripple across different sectors. My own coaching clients, many of whom are experienced professionals, were affected. The catalyst? A perfect storm of geopolitical issues, reduced funding, and yes, artificial intelligence.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Navigating Job Search Challenges08:31 Facing Uncertainty in the Job Market17:00 The Fog of Uncertainty in 202536:44 Taking Action Amidst UncertaintyLinks mentioned in this episode:Reset Your CareerTalentPredixBook a consultation with meEpisode 23 - Adapting to Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity - with Janet SernackEpisode 59 - The Power of Self-Fidelity: How to Be True to Yourself and Thrive Professionally - With Author Cassandra GoodmanSubscribe to the newsletterAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 325 - In a world that celebrates hustle, rest can feel counterintuitive. But for ambitious professionals, learning to pause is not optional. It’s a strategic necessity.Rebroadcasting as Episode 325 during our holiday break, this episode (originally released as Episode 298) continues to be one of the most practical and impactful guides for professionals feeling burned out at work.If you’ve spent the last few months feeling more exhausted than usual, struggling to focus, or wondering why your motivation has gone missing despite a looming job application or promotion deadline, you’re not alone. In my coaching work with experienced professionals, these themes are everywhere. And they’re not the result of laziness, lack of ambition, or poor time management. They are the hallmarks of burnout, which is now a routine part of corporate life.Burnout isn’t new. But its spread among high-performing professionals is growing quieter, deeper, and more normalized than ever. The World Health Organization gave it official status as an “occupational phenomenon” in 2019, describing it as the result of chronic workplace stress left unmanaged. Yet the language around burnout still lags behind the reality: many professionals don’t realise they’re burning out until their relationships suffer, their health declines, or their job search stalls despite their best efforts.You don’t need to be working in a hospital during a pandemic to feel burned out. Today, it’s just as likely to show up in the corner office, the Zoom window, or the resume file named “final_final_FINAL.pdf”. From senior executives navigating hybrid workplaces to job seekers attempting to “optimize” every aspect of their applications, the common thread is emotional depletion disguised as diligence.And the real danger? Burnout thrives in silence.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Understanding Burnout02:02 Defining Burnout and Its Impact07:40 Strategies to Combat Burnout15:55 The Role of Rest in Career SuccessLinks mentioned in this episode:The Times articleThe Guardian articleWintering, by Katherine MayWork with meWrite us a review on Apple PodcastsAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 324 - If you've ever felt frustrated by job search advice that doesn’t seem to work for you, this episode will help you understand why, and what to do instead. This episode is being rebroadcast as Episode 324 during our holiday break. It originally aired as Episode 277, and it remains one of the most useful episodes I’ve recorded for professionals who feel stuck in their job search.If you spend any time on LinkedIn these days, you’ll find no shortage of job search success stories. Posts from professionals who landed a new role in record time are often presented as if they hold the ultimate secret formula. The implication? If you’re still struggling to land your next opportunity, you must be doing something wrong.But the reality of job searching, especially for experienced corporate professionals, is far more complex than these polished narratives suggest. As a career strategist and coach, I work with professionals every day who are trying to navigate a labor market that has changed drastically. Their frustrations, struggles, and triumphs reveal an inconvenient truth: job search success is rarely as simple as social media makes it seem.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Debunking Job Search Myths06:08 Understanding the Real Cost of Job Search Advice15:10 Identifying Your Unique Job Search Strategy21:36 Creating Your Own Success StoryLinks mentioned in this episode:Learn more about working with meBook a consultation with RenataThe Job Hunting Made SimpleEpisode 117 - The Job Hunting Experience, with Amber KnightEpisode 55 - From City Life to Tropical Paradise: A Positive Redundancy Story Update, with Alistair FreemanAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 323 - I break down why experienced corporate professionals are struggling to regain control of their careers and share three practical steps to accelerate your job searchThis episode is being rebroadcast as Episode 323 during our holiday break. It originally aired as Episode 275, and it remains one of the most useful reset episodes I’ve recorded for experienced professionals who feel stuck in their job search.The job market has been tough over the past few years. Whether you were impacted by the pandemic or faced the challenges of the post-pandemic economy, job hunting is no easy feat. If you're an experienced professional, you're likely feeling stuck, frustrated, or overwhelmed. The good news? You don't have to navigate this process by yourself anymore.In this episode and blog, I’ll walk you through three essential steps to help you regain control over your job search. These are actionable, proven strategies that go beyond the clichéd advice of "posting more on LinkedIn" or "mastering the STAR interview technique." As a career and executive coach, I’ve helped counThis episode is being rebroadcast as Episode 323 during our holiday break. It originally aired as Episode 275, and it remains one of the most useful reset episodes I’ve recorded for experienced professionals who feel stuck in their job search.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Navigating the Job Market Challenges09:11 The Importance of Self-Knowledge in Job Search15:16 Strategies for Effective Job Hunting21:06 Coaching for Career AdvancementLinks mentioned in this episode:Learn more about my private coaching programJoin the waitlist for the Job Hunting Made Simple ProgramBook a consultation with RenataEpisode 322 - Are your job search efforts failing short? Discover the 5 critical mistakes that could be stopping you from landing your next role, and how to correct them.About the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Holiday Replay Episode 322 - Are your job search efforts failing short? Discover the 5 critical mistakes that could be stopping you from landing your next role, and how to correct them.This episode is being rebroadcast as Episode 323 during our holiday break. It originally aired as Episode 275 and it remains one of the most useful reset episodes I’ve recorded for experienced professionals who feel stuck in their job search.This is the kind of episode that lands differently when you’re tired, discouraged, or overthinking your next move. If this year didn’t go to plan, use this as a practical reset: mindset, interview presence, upskilling signals, and the small etiquette details that quietly cost offers.When job seeking, while external factors played a role, it’s crucial to focus on the aspects within your control. In this podcast episode, I explore the five main reasons why you may not have secured a job and, more importantly, what you can do differently.Drawing insights from renowned experts, as well as my own experience as a career coach, I will guide you through key mindset shifts, practical job search strategies, and essential interview techniques that can transform your career prospects. In this blog I will summarize the key points from this episode.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Welcome and Introduction to 2025 Job Market02:09 Reflecting on Job Search Challenges04:36 Mindset: The Invisible Force in Job Success20:54 Common Mistakes in Job Applications31:02 Actionable Steps for Job Seekers in 2025Links mentioned in this episode:Job Hunting Made Simple ProgramBook a consultation with RenataEpisode 321 - The job market in 2025 has been flat, competitive, and emotionally draining for many professionals. In this episode, recruiter Geoff Slade and I unpack what’s really happening behind the scenes and what job seekers can do to stand out, especially when everyone’s application starts to look the same.Episode 273 - Insights from a Top Recruiter: How to Advance Your Career as an Internal CandidateMarisa Peer Ted TalkArticle mentionedAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 321 - The job market in 2025 has been flat, competitive, and emotionally draining for many professionals. In this episode, recruiter Geoff Slade and I unpack what’s really happening behind the scenes and what job seekers can do to stand out, especially when everyone’s application starts to look the same. If 2025 felt harsher than you expected, you were not imagining it. As a career coach, I’ve watched experienced professionals, including senior leaders, get caught in longer hiring cycles, more competition, and a colder tone in recruitment communication. In this episode of The Job Hunting Podcast, I sat down with Geoff Slade, Chairman of the Slade Group, for our end-of-year reflection and forward-looking conversation. Geoff has a rare vantage point. His group operates across multiple recruitment brands and covers everything from entry-level roles through to senior executive appointments. He’s also been in the recruitment industry for decades, which gives him pattern recognition that most job seekers never get access to. In this blog post, I’m summarising and unpacking key points from our conversation, with a focus on what corporate professionals and executives can do right now. We discussed the flat job market, the rise of interim roles, the reality of negotiating salary and flexibility, and how AI is changing the way applications look and feel. Most importantly, we talked about how to market yourself so you stop blending in. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Overview of 2025 Job Market Dynamics05:07 Ruthlessness in Recruitment Communication07:49 Impact of Layoffs on Job Seekers10:17 Demand for Interim and Temporary Roles12:59 Negotiating Flexibility in a Tough Market15:32 The Future of Hybrid Work18:12 Tectonic Shifts in Employment Trends21:04 Negotiating Salary in a Challenging Environment23:54 Navigating Job Offers and Salary Negotiations26:56 The Impact of AI on Job Applications29:43 Building Confidence in Job Applications35:09 Strategies for Job Seekers in a Competitive Market40:02 Proactive Job Searching Techniques42:53 The Importance of Action and AccountabilityLinks mentioned in this episode:Episode with Talent Acquisition Manager Leanne BranniganContact me if you need help leading hybrid work environmentsInterview with Anita Ziemer, Executive Director, Slade GroupWhere you can access my template to connect with recruitersEpisode 217 - How to job search in 2024: An expert's view on the job market and recruitment trends, with Geoff SladeEpisode 163 - How to Job Search in 2023: An Expert’s View on the Job Market and Recruitment Trends, with Geoff SladeAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 320 - Discover the idea of “productive cringe” and how the slightly embarrassing moves you avoid are often the exact moves that unlock new roles, better opportunities, and a more sustainable career. Over the past few months, a phrase has appeared again and again in my coaching sessions with senior professionals. “I know I should post on LinkedIn, but that feels cringe.” “I know I should reach out to that person at my dream company, but that feels cringe.” “I know I should negotiate, but I do not want to be that person.” At first glance, these might sound like small worries. In reality, they tell us a great deal about how mid-career professionals are relating to their work in 2025. Cringe has become a powerful, if unspoken, organising force in many corporate careers. Not the justified embarrassment that comes from genuinely unprofessional behaviour, but the anticipatory discomfort we feel when we imagine colleagues rolling their eyes at our ambition. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 The Cringe Factor in Career Advancement00:53 Understanding Cringe and Its Impact07:21 Overcoming Cringe in Job Search12:06 Networking and Cold Outreach Cringe19:29 Negotiating Salary and Ambitions24:38 Reinventing Yourself and Embracing Change26:09 Learning from Leaders: Embracing CringeLinks mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to My NewsletterJoin my RB Lnkdn ClubThe LinkedIn post about being unemployed during the holiday seasonWork with me to have a clear narrativeArticle about cringe and Gen ZArticle about LinkedIn and cringeAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 319 - When a role disappears or a career stops feeling right, most professionals reach for more control, more effort and more doom scrolling. In this conversation, Professor Stephen G Post explains why generosity, service and “pure unlimited love” are powerful tools for coping with job loss, protecting mental health and realigning your career with a deeper sense of calling. Recording this episode with Professor Stephen G Post felt very different from my usual conversations about job search strategy. We did not talk much about keywords, ATS or networking scripts. We talked about love, service, calling and what happens to you on the inside when your role disappears or your career stops feeling right. As you know, most of my clients are senior professionals who have done everything by the book. Good schools, strong performance, promotions. Then something happens. A restructure, a new CEO, a bad boss, burnout. Suddenly the path that once felt stable looks very fragile. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Navigating Job Market Challenges09:37 The Journey to Finding One's Calling13:27 Advice for Late Bloomers21:18 The Essence of Pure Unlimited Love28:59 Balancing Altruism and Self-Care31:47 The Impact of Meaningful Volunteering33:27 Healing Through Kindness37:51 The Power of Morning Routines39:41 Connecting with Nature47:32 Understanding Happiness and FlowLinks mentioned in this episode:Stephen G. Post's book, Unlimited LoveStephen's LinkedInEpisode 268 - Career Transitions: A Guide for Corporate Professionals Seeking ChangeEpisode 303 - Kyle Samuels returns to share his personal health journey, the lessons it taught him about leadership, and the hiring trends shaping today’s job market. We explore recruitment trends, networking strategies, and how to handle career gaps with confidence.About the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 318 - I answer real questions from professionals who are worried about a prolonged job search. We talk about whether to use the LinkedIn Open To Work banner, how to cope when your job search has stretched past a year, and what to do when employers say you are “too senior”. In my inbox and on my Zoom screen, the same faces keep appearing. They are senior managers, directors, heads of function, sometimes C suite executives. They are in their forties, fifties, and sixties. They have built careers inside large companies, delivered turnarounds, navigated crises, and led hundreds of people. Now they are sitting at home with a LinkedIn tab open, hovering over a tiny feature that has come to carry enormous emotional weight: the “Open to Work” banner. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:03:49 Introduction to Job Search Questions12:46 Social Network and Job Advice18:01 Dealing with Seniority and Ageism27:05 Presenting Employment Gaps29:08 Unique Job Roles and Search Strategies32:12 International Coaching and Support35:24 Concluding Thoughts and Final QuestionLinks mentioned in this episode:Holiday Job Search SprintRB Lnkdn ClubEpisode 72 - Systemic Gender Biases, Double Standards, Mental and Physical Dangers Affecting Women in the Workplace - with Hannah Piterman Ph.D.Episode 162 - What Happens After We Quit Our Jobs: An Interview with Sara McElroy, Wall-Street Journal’s Poster Girl for the Great ResignationCallings.aiAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 317 - Losing a job or having a terrible job can pull you straight into survival mode. In this conversation with Jon Rosemberg, we unpack how to move from white-knuckle coping to a more intentional, agentic way of designing your next chapter. Survival mode is a nervous system response, not a personal failure.  In this podcast conversation, I spent time unpacking what survival mode actually is with my guest, Jon Rosemberg, who has studied applied positive psychology and worked as a COO in high-pressure environments. It is easy to forget that our bodies are old hardware running new software. From a nervous system perspective, losing a role or facing long-term unemployment can register as a threat to survival. Identity, status, and income are deeply tied to our sense of safety. When that safety is shaken, the body reacts. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesLinks mentioned in this episode:Job Searching Through the Holidays WebinarJon's personal websiteJon's firmAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 316 - Dr. Sheila Gujrathi discusses how to build real influence, find sponsors, and move into executive roles without losing yourself. We unpack how fear shows up and what to do when you aren’t the “obvious” candidate. I recorded this episode to answer a question many experienced professionals wrestle with: How do you keep advancing when you do not fit the traditional mold for senior leadership? My guest is Dr. Sheila Gujrathi, a biotech executive, physician, and scientist who has led programs from idea to approval, served as a CEO and board director, and built platforms to support leaders across the health and life sciences sector. She is known for a high-impact TEDx talk on brave, inclusive leadership with more than a million views, and she co-founded a peer community that connects and develops biotech CEOs. Our conversation is a practical discussion about sponsorship, fear, authentic influence, and the specific moves that help underrepresented leaders rise without losing themselves.  Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction to Sheila Gujrathi04:58 The Journey of Leadership and Advocacy08:13 The Importance of Role Models and Mirrors10:57 Preparing for Success: Mindset and Routine14:16 Grounding Techniques for High-Stress Situations17:11 Building Trust and Authenticity in Leadership20:11 Navigating Executive Presence23:19 Engaging in Conversations and Resetting Dynamics26:19 Trust and Relationship Building29:07 The Future of Leadership and AdvocacyLinks mentioned in this episode:TEDx talk “Shattering the Glass Ceiling by Finding the Right Mirrors.”Sheila's LinkedInThe Mirror Effect (book + workbook)About the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 315 - Crisis expert Edward Segal maps the first moves leaders should make when something goes wrong, who to call, what to say, how to brief the media, and how to make sure it doesn’t happen again. Most professionals I speak to who are experiencing a career crisis did not see it coming, and almost all of them did not prepare for it. Corporate professionals still treat crisis management as something that happens to other people, like the CEOs in the headlines and the companies and brands trending on social media for all the wrong reasons. In reality, crises are not confined to boardrooms or news cycles. They unfold quietly in inboxes, performance reviews, and unexpected phone calls from HR. When I sat down recently with Edward Segal, an expert on crisis management, I was reminded that “it’s not if, it’s when.” Every professional, no matter how senior or secure, will face defining career moments that test their judgment, values, and resilience. The challenge is not to avoid these moments, but to prepare for them and respond well when they arrive. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction03:01 Crisis Management Insights from Experience05:00 Understanding Crisis Triggers08:00 Crisis Management in Educational Institutions11:04 Communication Strategies During a Crisis13:55 The Importance of Media Training16:45 Crisis Management for Professionals20:05 Lessons from High-Profile Crises23:09 Final Thoughts on Crisis PreparednessLinks mentioned in this episode:Edward Segal's LinkedIn profileLink to Edward Segal's bookEpisode 304 - In this episode of The Job Hunting Podcast, TV journalist and confidence coach Ashleigh Paholek shares how to project authority and trust in interviews, presentations, and boardrooms. From mastering silence to improving your virtual presence, these strategies will help you influence with confidence — even when you don’t feel it.Episode 309 - Beyond the headlines, workplace scandals reveal deeper lessons about governance, disclosure, and accountability. In this episode, I share strategies for overcoming missteps and rebuilding your professional brand.About the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 314 - Recruiter-turned-Founder Georgie Hubbard unpacks how to pivot with confidence, optimize your resume and LinkedIn, and ditch “spray & pray” for targeted strategies that actually get results.After dozens of conversations with senior professionals over the past few months and the discussions in my latest podcast episode, I keep coming back to the same conclusion. The people who are progressing in this year’s job market are not the ones applying faster or to more roles. They are the ones who have adapted to a hiring system that is more algorithmic and more cautious than it was a year ago. The question is whether your job search strategy reflects this as well. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Career Boldness and Reinvention03:48 Overcoming Fear and Paralysis by Analysis08:20 Cultural Shocks and Resilience in New Environments11:28 Navigating Career Pivots and Transferable Skills16:01 Adapting to Modern Recruitment Challenges22:43 Visibility and Networking in a Competitive Market25:03 Overcoming Precision and Embracing Boldness29:39 The Fear of Regret and Career Transitions33:51 Monetizing Skills and Building a Business39:49 Navigating the Early Stages of Entrepreneurship42:30 Empowering Women in the Age of AILinks mentioned in this episode:Georgie's LinkedinGeorgie's websiteAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 313 - Employment attorney Jessica Childress is back, unpacking what “toxic” really means at work, and how to decide if it’s time to stay or go. I'm sure you're well aware that experienced professionals have had to cope with hostile cultures, micromanagement, and difficult leaders in their careers. Some issues are illegal. Many are not. Either way, the impact on your confidence and career can be profound. In this episode, employment attorney Jessica Childress helps us separate what is unlawful from what is simply unhealthy, and to outline a practical approach for documenting issues, engaging HR strategically, and, when needed, negotiating a clean exit.  Start with definitions. Many environments feel corrosive yet are not unlawful. Civility is not a legal requirement. As Jessica put it: “It’s not a workplace civility code. So the law does not require civility.” However, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation tied to a protected class or protected activity are unlawful. Knowing the line matters because your strategy depends on it. If conduct is unlawful, escalate precisely and protect the record. If it is unhealthy but legal, your leverage comes from establishing boundaries, framing your business, and exploring options outside the building. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Advocacy and Employee Rights05:35 Experiencing Toxic Workplaces12:08 Leaving on Your Own Terms17:10 Identifying Toxic Workplaces24:10 Strategies for Surviving Toxic Workplaces32:53 Navigating the Exit Process43:45 Finding Peace After LeavingLinks mentioned in this episode:Episode 213 - Navigating Workplace Rights, a Conversation with Employment Law Expert Jessica ChildressThe Childress firmJessica's book, Peace: Leaving A Toxic Workplace on Your Own Terms (E-Book)About the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 312 - If you second-guess your success, Alison Shamir shares the mindset shifts and tools that help professionals recognise and overcome imposter thoughts. For years, clients have reached out to me with this dilemma: They are capable, experienced professionals who are unsuccessful in their job search. Usually, this is my diagnosis: They are not short of qualifications; they are short of traction.  Listening back to my conversation with imposter syndrome expert Alison Shamir, I was struck by how precisely her framework matches what my clients have faced in their careers. That is, a human tendency to discount our own track record, especially when they're unemployed and looking for work. It is a cycle in which the external system is harder to read and the internal narrator becomes louder, precisely when professionals need to demonstrate clear business value. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Understanding Imposter Syndrome: A Personal Journey13:18 The Role of Managers in Identifying Imposter Syndrome25:44 Recognizing Imposter Syndrome in Job Candidates26:36 Understanding Imposter Syndrome and Its Signs27:40 Conquering Imposter Syndrome: Control vs. Elimination29:03 The Three Pillar Framework for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome31:50 Real-Life Examples of Overcoming Imposter Syndrome35:03 Triggers of Imposter Syndrome and Their Impact38:23 Personal Experiences and Relatable Stories44:38 External Factors and Confidence in Job Searching48:20 Controlling the Controllables: A Key TakeawayLinks mentioned in this episode:Alison's LinkedInAlison's bookAlison's websiteLearn more about Renata's courses and servicesAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 311 - Leanne Brannigan spent years hiring. Then she was laid off, and used social media to document her experience job searching while unemployed. Her story exposes how the system treats candidates and what we can do better. I spend my weeks advising professionals who assumed that their extensive work experience and a tidy LinkedIn profile would carry them through a choppy market. Then they collide with reality: Long hiring cycles, few roles at their level, automated screens that reward keywords over judgment, and interview panels that want evidence, not eloquence. The latest episode of my podcast features internal recruiter turned job seeker, Leanne Brannigan, who walked through that reality from both sides of the table. Her story crystallizes the themes I see daily and points to a more disciplined way forward for corporate professionals who want to compete at the top end of the labor market. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction to the Journey03:25 Navigating Redundancy and Job Search06:24 Building a Supportive Community10:10 Emotional Impact of Job Loss13:03 Strategies for Job Searching16:05 The Role of Networking19:17 Sharing Experiences Publicly22:20 Candidate Experience and Feedback24:55 Reflections on the Job Market29:54 The Impact of Redundancy on Job Seekers31:57 Encouraging Transparency in Candidate Experiences34:50 Navigating Vulnerability on Professional Platforms40:50 Developing an Application Strategy46:59 Positive Experiences in Recruitment Processes52:26 Making Decisions Between Job Offers59:26 Embracing a New Role in Talent AcquisitionLinks mentioned in this episode:31 Days of ActionReset Your CareerRB Lnkdn ClubAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 310 - Most job seekers focus on what they should do. In today’s episode, we dig into what they aren’t doing and why that’s costing them jobs. At a time when headlines are dominated by artificial intelligence, layoffs, and economic uncertainty, the themes from my discussion with Nick Waterworth, CEO of Ambition, on The Job Hunting Podcast (ep 309) deserve a closer look. His insights align with what I hear daily from my clients, and he offers explanations and advice that will benefit many job seekers on their path to career advancement and success in the hiring process. As a career strategist working with experienced professionals, many of whom are navigating the turbulence of mid-to-late career transitions, I found the conversation with Nick enlightening.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction and Setup01:58 The Journey into Recruitment04:53 The Evolution of Recruitment07:54 Adapting to Technology and AI11:09 Navigating Hybrid Work Environments14:01 Current Job Market Dynamics16:58 The Over 50s in the Workforce28:21 The Dual Faces of Interim Assignments31:11 Hiring Trends and the Need for Adaptability35:18 The Challenges of Job Ads38:25 Navigating the Recruitment Process41:19 Concerns in Recruitment for 202545:25 Common Misconceptions Among Job Seekers52:23 Understanding Niche Markets in RecruitmentLinks mentioned in this episode:Ambition Group WebsiteNick's LinkedIn ProfileAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 309 - Beyond the headlines, workplace scandals reveal deeper lessons about governance, disclosure, and accountability. In this episode, I share strategies for overcoming missteps and rebuilding your professional brand. Every so often, a string of corporate headlines forces us to confront the evolving nature of leadership. In recent months, the departures of high-profile CEOs from Astronomer, Nestlé, and Super Retail have done exactly that. Each case was triggered not by financial mismanagement or strategic failure of disclosure. More specifically, in relation to personal relationships that crossed professional boundaries. These stories are not about romance or morality. They are about power, trust, and the unforgiving spotlight under which modern leaders operate. For my clients and listeners, experienced corporate professionals navigating career transitions, these scandals are not distant boardroom dramas. They are cautionary tales that shape hiring practices, redefine professional expectations, and serve as stark reminders that reputation can shift overnight. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Crisis Management in Corporate Relationships02:38 Lessons from Recent Corporate Scandals05:03 Understanding Power Dynamics and Policies10:12 Coaching Through Crisis16:06 Accountability and Communication Strategies20:46 Crisis Response Protocols25:59 Rebuilding Reputation After a Crisis32:24 Long-term Strategies for Personal Brand RecoveryLinks mentioned in this episode:Work with meEpisode 307 - From the rise of portfolio careers to the growing importance of digital transformation, the 2025 Interim Executive Survey highlights how executives are choosing new ways of working.Link to my TV interview about AstronomerBook mentioned: Firing BackNestle press releaseRich roll podcastMonica Lewinsky AFR ArticleAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 308 - Rejections are part of the job search and they can also guide your next steps. In this episode, Renata answers questions about resumes, layoffs, LinkedIn gaps, and how to pivot into new opportunities.In recent months, the messages I receive from clients and podcast listeners have become increasingly urgent. Experienced professionals, many in their 40s, 50s, and 60s, are being forced to navigate layoffs, endless rejections, and the unsettling prospect of having to pivot careers in an economy that feels unstable at best.  The questions raised by hundreds of participants in a recent webinar I joined, organized by the job seeker’s platform Callings.ai, painted a vivid picture of where corporate professionals stand today.  This moment is not unique. Labor markets cycle, as history shows us. Yet 2025 has brought together a particular mix of challenges: post-pandemic restructuring, political shifts that have left government professionals in limbo, funding cuts, and AI-driven restructures. For executives and experienced professionals, these shifts create both barriers and opportunities. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction to the Webinar and Podcast Episode04:36 Handling Rejection and Staying Motivated12:53 Applications, Resumes, and LinkedIn Strategies26:32 Career Pivots and Returning to Old Employers36:05 Interviewing and Closing the Deal42:48 Application Strategies and TimingLinks mentioned in this episode:Join the RB Lnkdn Club to improve your presence on LinkedInWatch the Layoff webinarFollow the other panellists: Albert QianFollow the other panellists: Matthew SorensenFollow the other panellists: Garrett RiceThe Job Hunting Podcast interview with Garrett Rice, CEO of Callings.ai (282)Search The Job Hunting Podcast episodes by category or keywordAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 307 - From the rise of portfolio careers to the growing importance of digital transformation, the 2025 Interim Executive Survey highlights how executives are choosing new ways of working. JOIN THE RB LNKDN CLUB NOWIn this week’s episode of The Job Hunting Podcast, I spoke with Donna Burr, Partner in Interim Executive Management at Watermark Search International, about the findings of their 15th Annual Interim Executive Survey. With 15 years of data and nearly 900 survey respondents in 2025, this report offers invaluable insight into how executives are choosing to work flexibly in interim roles, what organizations want from interim executives, and how career models are evolving. Our discussion revealed trends that are essential for anyone navigating today's and future job markets. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction to Interim Executive Management04:40 Understanding Portfolio Careers07:42 Insights from the 15th Annual Survey10:39 Adapting to Client Needs13:37 Business Transformation Roles16:39 Challenges in Interim Executive Roles19:40 Self-Agency in Career Management22:34 Networking and Building a Portfolio Career25:39 Discipline and Consistency in Interim Work27:32 Navigating the Executive Landscape28:58 Gender Balance in Executive Roles32:09 The Age Factor in Leadership37:00 Global Perspectives on Interim Executives41:07 Career Pathways Beyond C-Suite43:57 AI as a Leadership Amplifier51:11 Final Thoughts on Executive TransitionLinks mentioned in this episode:Join the RB Lnkdn ClubLink to the ReportEpisode 78 - Portfolio Career: What Is It, and Is It for You? - with Jacinta WhelanEpisode 31 - Me Inc: Opting for short term contract workEpisode 103 - How to make successful career transitions - with Donna BurrEpisode 111 - Portfolio Career: An Alternative Path to C-Level Jobs, with Julia CooksonEpisode 231 - A Harvard Expert Is Asking You to Reimagine Your Career and Your Relationship to WorkAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 306 - This episode explores how LinkedIn activity can protect you from layoffs, attract opportunities, and build long-term credibility.  I believe that LinkedIn activity is the new career currency. In fact, I am certain of that, and I have clients’ results to prove it. To determine if professionals were already aware of this fact, I ran a poll on LinkedIn a few weeks ago, asking where people felt most stuck in building their presence on the platform. The answers surprised me, though perhaps they shouldn’t have. It wasn’t the profile. It wasn’t resume-style updates. The real struggle was posting and activity. Knowing what to say, how to say it, and how to balance the risk of being visible with the fear of misstepping in front of employers and peers seems to be the biggest barrier for professionals when it comes to fully embracing LinkedIn. This result mirrors what I hear daily from clients and listeners of my podcast. Corporate professionals, including senior executives with decades of experience, remain uneasy about engaging on LinkedIn. And yet, engagement, rather than a polished profile, is increasingly what recruiters, boards, and decision-makers evaluate when considering candidates. And it makes sense. In today’s hybrid world of work and a job market filled with AI-generated content, the difference between those who can express themselves and communicate their expertise with confidence, knowledge, and empathy gives them an incredible advantage. They stand out in a sea of sameness.  Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Understanding LinkedIn Challenges01:19 The Importance of LinkedIn Activity12:29 Navigating Employer Approval and Restrictions19:31 Building a Professional Brand on LinkedIn27:37 Leveraging LinkedIn Algorithms for Success35:55 Introducing a New LinkedIn Support GroupLinks mentioned in this episode:Join the RB Lnkdn GroupAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 305 - Many professionals dream of a board career, but few know how to get there. In this episode, I unpack the three biggest blockers and share a roadmap to help you secure your first board role. A large number of experienced professionals are eyeing board appointments as the next chapter in their careers. In a recent LinkedIn poll I conducted, nearly eight in ten respondents said they wanted a board role within the next five years. The allure is understandable. Board seats promise influence, intellectual challenge, and the prestige of shaping an organization’s future without the grind of day-to-day operations. But there’s a catch. While the appetite for board roles is surging, the path to securing one remains opaque and, for many, deeply frustrating. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 The Demand for Board Roles09:58 Understanding Board Expectations17:33 The Appointment Process for Board Members25:51 Becoming Board Ready39:34 Strategizing for Board PositionsLinks mentioned in this episode:Are you aiming for a paid board seat in the next 5 years?How to Be a Chairperson vs a Board MemberHow to Be a Chairperson vs a Board MemberNavigating Your Way to a Board SeatSteps to Secure Your First Board PositionAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 304 - In this episode of The Job Hunting Podcast, TV journalist and confidence coach Ashleigh Paholek shares how to project authority and trust in interviews, presentations, and boardrooms. From mastering silence to improving your virtual presence, these strategies will help you influence with confidence — even when you don’t feel it. I coach experienced professionals who are navigating a turbulent job market. When we start working together, some things are easier and faster to update: resumes get polished, LinkedIn profiles refreshed, and applications start converting to interviews. Yet they remain puzzled by a frustrating reality: despite their decades of experience, they are struggling to get traction with their interviews, network, and even with their employers once they start working. It’s tempting to point to market forces. Hiring freezes, cautious budgets, and a glut of qualified applicants are real obstacles. But a quieter, more personal factor often separates the candidates who advance from those who do not: executive presence. And this is when working with a coach for a few months can help. https://www.renatabernarde.com/ In a recent conversation with Ashleigh Paholek, an experienced television journalist and communications expert, I was reminded how little this skill is discussed and how much it matters. Our talk reinforced something I’ve seen in my coaching practice: career opportunities often hinge less on what you say than on how you say it. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction and Background05:17 The Journey from Journalism to Coaching10:21 Understanding Confidence: Internal vs External15:17 The Importance of Conciseness in Communication20:12 Voice and Tone: The Power of Nonverbal Communication25:27 Body Language and Its Impact on Perception30:17 The Role of Appearance in Job Interviews35:14 Final Thoughts on Building ConfidenceLinks mentioned in this episode:The Social Day Club, where I met Ashleigh PaholekAshleigh's websiteAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 303 - Kyle Samuels returns to share his personal health journey, the lessons it taught him about leadership, and the hiring trends shaping today’s job market. We explore recruitment trends, networking strategies, and how to handle career gaps with confidence. The last time I spoke with executive recruiter Kyle Samuels, we were deep in conversation about executive compensation. This year, the conversation was very different. Kyle returned to my podcast with not only market insights but a deeply personal story. He had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, undergone major surgery, and endured six months of chemotherapy. On top of that, he continued to lead his firm, Creative Talent Endeavors, during one of the toughest job markets in recent memory. His experience illuminates three critical themes for corporate professionals today: resilience in the face of disruption, the centrality of relationships, and the rapid changes occurring in recruitment and hiring. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Weathering the Storms: A Personal Journey03:48 Facing Cancer: A Life-Altering Diagnosis09:16 Navigating Business During Health Challenges12:57 The Importance of Health Over Work16:47 Raising Awareness: The Fight Against Pancreatic Cancer22:06 Returning to Work: Balancing Health and Career24:25 Navigating Personal Challenges and Resilience26:11 Diversity and Inclusion: Progress and Challenges29:00 The Job Market Landscape: Candidate Experiences33:27 Networking and Relationship Building in Job Searches41:51 Emerging Job Trends and the Role of AI52:46 Conclusion: Embracing Change and Future OpportunitiesLinks mentioned in this episode:Episode 226 - This Recruiter Wants You to Rethink Your Salary Expectation, with Kyle SamuelsEpisode 279 - What Job Seekers Can Learn from Sales ProfessionalsAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Hardly a week goes by without news of another high-profile layoff. From tech giants like Meta and Tesla to government agencies and financial institutions, corporate professionals at every level find themselves confronting an unsettling new normal. As a career coach, outplacement provider, and host of The Job Hunting Podcast, I've observed firsthand the toll layoffs are taking both financially and emotionally. In this episode’s conversation with Steve Jaffe, author of "The Layoff Journey: From Dismissal to Discovery," we unpacked the psychological impacts of job loss and how professionals can emerge stronger.  Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Navigating Layoffs: A Personal Journey02:07 Understanding the Stages of Grief in Layoffs04:52 Coping Mechanisms and Emotional Resilience07:57 The Impact of Identity Loss11:02 Managing Anger and Bargaining13:42 The Importance of Rest and Recovery16:49 Finding Meaning and Moving Forward25:25 The Importance of a Well-Rounded Life27:24 Shame and Identity in Unemployment29:07 Owning Your Professional Identity30:58 The Job Search as Full-Time Work33:59 Building and Utilizing Your Network37:14 Resilience in Job Searching39:04 The Role of Career Coaching40:55 The Value of a Strong Network46:05 Living with Intentionality51:38 New ChapterLinks mentioned in this episode:Link to Purchase Steve's bookAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

If there’s one lesson from the corporate world that deserves a headline, it’s this: the workplace is not a meritocracy. Or at least, not in the way most professionals imagine. Hard work is necessary, but it’s not the defining factor in who gets promoted, who receives stretch opportunities, or who survives the next round of cost-cutting. In this episode, I spoke with Kendall Berg, former senior executive turned career coach and author of Secrets of the Career Game. We explored how professionals, especially those at mid to senior levels, are stalling not because of performance but because of invisibility. They’re delivering outcomes, checking boxes, staying loyal, but failing to cultivate the relationships and influence that truly drive advancement. Berg’s following on social media channels amounts to over 500,000, indicating that her message about what actually gets you promoted resonates with many people. Berg’s career turning point came when a senior leader told her: “Everyone wants you on their team because you're so efficient, and nobody likes working with you.” That moment, which she recounts without bitterness, shattered the myth that excellent work alone was enough to earn the next title. It was, as she puts it, the moment she realized she’d been playing a game she didn’t know existed. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 The Game of Career Advancement05:27 Navigating Feedback and Growth08:37 The Importance of Relationships in Career11:36 Learning from Mentorship and Coaching14:31 Building a Growth Mindset17:32 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership20:34 Career Choices and Personal Values23:23 Empowerment and Control in Your Career32:44 Empowerment Through Career Choices35:02 Taking Control of Your Career41:00 Building Authentic Connections46:35 The Balance of Likeability and Trust53:45 Actionable Steps for Career AdvancementLinks mentioned in this episode:Purchase Kendall's bookAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

The labor market feels eerily calm on the surface. Unemployment still hovers near 4 percent in both the US and Australia, and it has not yet reached 5% in the UK. Yet, experienced professionals looking for work in corporate, startups, government and nonprofits tell a very different story. Over the past quarter my coaching inbox has filled with job seekers, from vice presidents to team managers forced to write résumés for the first time in over a decade, and directors competing with their former interns for hybrid roles that pay 20 percent less. After interviewing Priya Bhola Rathod, Indeed’s career-trends expert, for my podcast last week, I’m convinced the squeeze is structural, not cyclical. Below are the three forces reshaping white-collar work, and the countermeasures every corporate professional should deploy now.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction to Career Conversations06:38 Navigating Industry Changes09:41 The Importance of Networking12:43 Understanding Age and Experience in Job Markets15:35 Overcoming Overqualification Concerns18:21 Re-entering the Workforce After a Break30:44 Tailoring Resumes for Success31:34 The Impact of AI on Job Applications33:35 Understanding AI's Role in Job Markets35:35 Navigating Job Descriptions and LinkedIn Profiles37:40 Cultural Differences in Job Narratives40:36 Evaluating Company Culture During Job Applications42:33 Leveraging AI Tools for Job Seekers45:36 Final Thoughts on Job Searching and ResourcesLinks mentioned in this episode:Episode 299 - First 90-Day Leadership Moves Matter: Proven Strategies to Listen, Act Symbolically, and Avoid Hasty Personnel Decisions in New RolesIndeedGlassdoorAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

I sat down with Neill Marshall and Kurt Mosley of HealthSearch Partners to talk about the first 90 days of an executive appointment. While their expertise is focused on senior roles in healthcare, the lessons are universal: in 2025, how a leader shows up on day one can either extend a career or stall it. What struck me is how much has changed in the hiring market and how much has stayed the same. For experienced professionals navigating career transitions, the insights from this conversation should serve as both a warning and an inspiration. They confirmed what many of my clients are feeling: that the margin for error is thin, expectations are high, and hiring trends are evolving fast. Job seekers need to keep up. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction05:54 The Importance of the First 90 Days10:00 Leadership in Healthcare: Navigating Change16:10 The Evolving Role of CEOs Post-Pandemic19:59 Navigating Career Transitions and Tenure23:55 The Impact of Age on Leadership Roles30:04 Preparing for Leadership Interviews33:58 Leveraging LinkedIn for Career Opportunities39:49 Effective Communication in Job SearchesLinks mentioned in this episode:How Great Leaders Win Teams Over In Their First 90 Days – Forbes (June 2025)What Effective CEOs Do After Their First 90 Days – Harvard Business Review (January 2025)It Really Isn’t About 100 Days – McKinsey & CompanyThe First 90 Days, Updated and Expanded – Harvard Business RevieHow To Make Your First 90 Days Count As A Leader – Forbes (May 2024)About the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 298 - Burnout May Be Blocking Your Career GrowthIf you’ve spent the last few months feeling more exhausted than usual, struggling to focus, or wondering why your motivation has gone missing despite a looming job application or promotion deadline, you’re not alone. In my coaching work with experienced professionals, these themes are everywhere. And they’re not the result of laziness, lack of ambition, or poor time management. They are the hallmarks of burnout, which is now a routine part of corporate life. Burnout isn’t new. But its spread among high-performing professionals is growing quieter, deeper, and more normalized than ever. The World Health Organization gave it official status as an “occupational phenomenon” in 2019, describing it as the result of chronic workplace stress left unmanaged. Yet the language around burnout still lags behind the reality: many professionals don’t realise they’re burning out until their relationships suffer, their health declines, or their job search stalls despite their best efforts.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Understanding Burnout03:06 Defining Burnout and Its Impact08:48 Strategies to Combat Burnout17:19 The Role of Rest in Career SuccessLinks mentioned in this episode:The Times articleThe Guardian articleWintering, by Katherine MayWork with meWrite us a review on Apple PodcastsAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 297 - When Interviews Go Bad: How to Bounce Back StrongerWhen Interviews Go Bad: How to Bounce Back Stronger  It’s a truth most career professionals don’t like to admit: we’ve all had a bad interview. Not just “I didn’t get the job” bad, but “something went wrong and I’m not even sure why” bad. As a career strategist and coach to senior corporate professionals, I often see this scenario unfolding more frequently than you might expect, even among high performers with stellar resumes and extensive experience. Why? Because the modern job interview has become a flawed litmus test. It’s over-indexed on performance under pressure, vulnerable to unconscious bias, often led by untrained interviewers, and increasingly divorced from a candidate’s real potential. In today’s job market, still uncertain, hyper-competitive, and fatigued by hiring delays, poor interviews don’t always reflect poor candidates. Instead, they reflect structural issues in how we hire. Let’s unpack the patterns I see every week from clients across industries, and what they reveal about the current professional climate.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction to Interview Challenges12:07 Understanding Interview Dynamics23:47 Learning from Interview Failures33:15 Moving Forward After a Bad InterviewLinks mentioned in this episode:Episode 273 - Insights from a Top Recruiter: How to Advance Your Career as an Internal CandidateAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 296 - No One Understands Me: What to Do When You're the Only Person You Know Who's UnemployedIt’s an increasingly familiar story: a highly skilled professional finds themselves unemployed, not for lack of talent or dedication, but because of market forces, corporate restructuring, or a volatile economy. What surprises them most is not the absence of work, but the sudden absence of understanding from their network. I´ve been there. Have you? As a career strategist working closely with corporate professionals, many in mid to late stages of their careers, I see this pattern every day. Talented executives come to me not just with resumes and job applications, but with a quieter crisis: the emotional toll of feeling forgotten or judged during what can be a profoundly disorienting life transition. These are not entry-level candidates or those just learning to navigate the workforce. They are former department heads, regional leaders, VPs, senior managers, and trusted experts in their field. Yet the moment they exit a company, many find their identity questioned, even by themselves. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Understanding the Emotional Reality of Unemployment10:42 Rebuilding Your Support System23:56 Creating a Community of SupportLinks mentioned in this episode:Reset Your CareerThe Job Hunting PodcastSubscribe to the NewsletterAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 295 - How to Stay Focused on Your Career Goals, Even When the Future Feels UncertainThe job market in 2025 feels like it's operating in a dense fog. For many professionals, particularly those in mid-to-senior corporate roles, navigating a career today is less like following a GPS and more like learning to read a compass in the dark. This uncertainty is not just emotional, it’s systemic. Since the beginning of the year, we’ve seen a wave of redundancies ripple across different sectors. My own coaching clients, many of whom are experienced professionals, were affected. The catalyst? A perfect storm of geopolitical issues, reduced funding, and yes, artificial intelligence. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Navigating Job Search Challenges08:49 Facing Uncertainty in the Job Market18:10 The Fog of Uncertainty in 202537:55 Taking Action Amidst UncertaintyLinks mentioned in this episode:Become a Career Pivot AllyReset Your CareerTalentPredixBook a consultation with meEpisode 23 - Adapting to Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity - with Janet SernackSubscribe to the newsletterAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 294 - Job Searching is Work. Learn How to Treat it Like a Priority and Make Meaningful ProgressProfessionals often find themselves juggling the demands of full-time work, family responsibilities, and their ambition for professional and career development. Finding the time and energy for a structured, effective job search can feel overwhelming. In this episode of The Job Hunting Podcast, I share my reflections on how to incorporate job searching into your routine, inspired by productivity expert Nir Eyal, author of Indistractable. The focus is on reclaiming your attention and making your job search a structured part of your life rather than an afterthought. This blog provides a summary of the key themes and takeaways from the episode to help professionals manage their careers proactively and sustainably. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction to Job Searching Challenges04:55 Creating an Effective Job Search Routine09:56 Staying Focused Amid Distractions22:06 Strategies for a Successful Job SearchLinks mentioned in this episode:Reset Your CareerBecome a Career Pivot AllyTalentPredixBook a Consultation with MeSubscribe to the NewsletterEpisode 23 - Adapting to Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity - with Janet SernackAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 293 - You've Been Laid Off. Now What? A Step-by-Step Guide to Rebuilding Your CareerOne of the most common missteps I see is jumping into job applications without taking the time for reflection. Before you start sending out resumes, stop and ask yourself: What do I want in my next role? What am I no longer willing to tolerate? What type of employer suits my life stage now? This is especially crucial for professionals over 40 who want long-term alignment. Write down what has worked in your career and what hasn’t. Reflect on what energizes you and what drains you. This process helps you realign your career goals with your personal values and lifestyle needs.Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Navigating Job Loss: A Personal Journey03:51 Processing the Emotional Impact of Layoffs07:42 Financial Check-In: Stabilizing Your Situation09:10 Reflecting on Career Goals: A Reset Moment13:31 Updating Career Tools: Resume and LinkedIn Optimization15:23 Networking: The Key to Job Searching21:34 Well-Being During Job Search: Protecting Your Mental Health23:41 Conclusion: Embracing Change and Supporting OthersLinks mentioned in this episode:Reset Your CareerBecome a Career Pivot AllyEpisode 241 - You've Been Laid Off, Now What? A Guide for Corporate ProfessionalsEpisode 238 - Job Search Loneliness: Strategies for Connection and ResilienceEpisode 151 - Five Key Strategies to Guide You Towards Your New JobEpisode 133 - What to Do When Everyone Decides to Rethink Their CareersEpisode 254 - Unlocking Career Success: Expert Answers to Your Top Job Search QuestionsAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 292 - How AI is Changing the Job Search for Corporate ProfessionalsUnderstanding how AI tools are impacting hiring practices is no longer optional. In this episode of The Job Hunting Podcast, I sat down with Troy Sultan, founder and CEO of Guide, an AI-powered recruitment software company, to unpack the realities behind applicant tracking systems, recruiter behavior, and how candidates can position themselves for success. Troy brings deep industry experience, having previously worked in recruiting roles at Google and founded a recruitment software company that was acquired by a major competitor. His insights offer clarity on what happens behind the scenes in modern hiring and how professionals can strategically navigate the process. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 The Journey into Recruitment03:32 The LinkedIn Monopoly and Recruitment Tools06:18 Candidate Struggles in Job Applications09:46 The Role of AI in Recruitment12:33 Bias in Recruitment Processes15:33 Education and Job Search Strategies18:31 True or False: Myths in Job Applications21:21 The Importance of Networking and Referrals24:32 The Future of Recruitment Technology27:31 Final Thoughts on Candidate ExperienceLinks mentioned in this episode:Troy Sultan LinkedInEpisode 279 - What Job Seekers Can Learn from Sales ProfessionalsAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 291 - How to Spot and Create a Great Workplace CultureCulture has become a defining factor for career satisfaction and success. For job seekers in particular, the search is no longer about compensation or title. It’s about finding an environment where you can thrive, contribute meaningfully, and align with the company’s mission and values. Although this was always a “good to have” in the past, it has become more and more important in recent year. It’s what HR professionals call a shift in the EVP, our employee value proposition. In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Zrinka Lovrencic, the most experienced person I know when it comes to reviewing, analyzing, and assessing workplace culture. As the Managing Director at WorkPlus and previously at the helm of the coveted accreditation Great Place to Work Australia, Zrinka has helped hundreds of organizations recognize and build high-performing workplace cultures. In our conversation, we explored what makes a truly great workplace, how job seekers can assess culture before accepting a job, and the future of work post-pandemic. This blog post is a summary of our conversation. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction and Background02:09 Transforming Workplace Culture05:02 Elements of a Great Workplace07:55 Job Hunting and Workplace Culture10:58 Navigating Disconnects in Values13:57 The Impact of COVID-19 on Work Culture16:52 Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace19:12 Prioritizing Culture Over Compensation22:15 Assessing Company Values25:00 Identifying Red Flags in Organizations28:13 Unique Examples of Great Workplaces31:08 Future Trends in Workplace CultureLinks mentioned in this episode:Connect with Zrinka Lovrencic on LinkedInWRK+About the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 290 - The Future of Leadership and Work with Stella VoulesThe workplace keeps changing at lightning speed, and professionals face a fundamental challenge: adapt or fall behind. The need to stay ahead of digital transformations, reskill for relevance, and lead with empathy is more urgent than ever. In this episode, I spoke with Stella Voules, a trusted advisor to executives navigating organizational change. With a background in psychology and business, she specializes in helping leaders build digital capability, cultivate a compassionate culture, and prepare for the future of work. Our conversation centered around the skills gap, the rise of consulting careers, and the essential leadership traits needed for success in 2025 and beyond. This blog post serves as a comprehensive summary and reflection on our discussion, offering actionable advice for professionals navigating a rapidly changing career landscape. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction and Background02:09 Transforming Workplace Culture05:02 Elements of a Great Workplace07:55 Job Hunting and Workplace Culture10:58 Navigating Disconnects in Values13:57 The Impact of COVID-19 on Work Culture16:52 Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace19:12 Prioritizing Culture Over Compensation22:15 Assessing Company Values25:00 Identifying Red Flags in Organizations28:13 Unique Examples of Great Workplaces31:08 Future Trends in Workplace CultureLinks mentioned in this episode:Connect with Stella Voules on LinkedInVost&Co websiteEpisode 237 - An Interview with ChatGPT: How to Optimize Your Job Search Using AIEpisode 199 - Job Hunting in the AI Era: Making Your CV Stand OutAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 289 - What Job Seekers Need to Know About the Hidden Job Market Today’s job market demands new approaches, particularly for mid-to-late career professionals. Applying online and waiting is no longer enough to secure competitive opportunities. In this episode, I explore a crucial topic for experienced professionals: the hidden job market. This episode is part of our three-part series on advanced job search strategies. In episodes 284 and 286, we have covered how to adapt to economic shifts and how to elevate your professional brand. In this final installment (289), I bring together all those insights to help you navigate the less visible but highly valuable aspects of the job market. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction to Advanced Job Search Strategies00:57 Recap of Previous Episodes06:29 Understanding the Hidden Job Market09:15 What is the Hidden Job Market?16:31 Strategies for Tapping into the Hidden Job Market17:28 Reactive Job Search Strategies22:21 Passive Job Search Strategies28:39 Active Job Search Strategies36:15 Combining Job Search Strategies41:04 Conclusion and Key TakeawaysLinks mentioned in this episode:31 Days of ActionEpisode 284 - This Ain’t Your First Recession: How to Navigate Today’s Job Market Like a ProEpisode 286 - If You're Not Showing Up on LinkedIn, You’re Invisible: How Job Hunting Has Changed for Professionals Over 40About the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 288 - How to Job Hunt During the Mid-Year SlowdownIf you're a job seeker heading into the mid-year period, particularly the June–July school holidays, you’ve likely heard the familiar refrain: “No one hires this time of year.” The job boards quiet down, recruiters take leave, and it’s easy to believe your career ambitions should be put on hold. In this continuation of my conversation with leadership expert Michelle Redfern (Click here for Part 1), we unpack what it really means to look for a job during seasonal slowdowns, and why this mid-year window can offer a strategic advantage for experienced professionals. Whether you’ve recently been made redundant, are voluntarily stepping away from a role, or just rethinking your next move, this episode is packed with practical insights for navigating this often-overlooked career season. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Conclusion and Next Steps for Job Seekers06:38 Navigating Job Market Slowdowns08:34 Psychological Aspects of Unemployment11:00 Crafting Your Narrative During Job Searches16:48 Preparing for Social Gatherings as an Unemployed Professional23:30 Maximizing Downtime for Career Planning29:41 The Importance of Authentic Networking37:49 Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile for Job SearchesLinks mentioned in this episode:Episode 287 - Hiring Makes No Sense Anymore: Why Recruitment and Hiring Feel Like a Burden and How Leaders Can Fix ThemMichelle's podcast Lead to Soar podcast, community and corporate servicesEpisode 260 - The Final Stretch: Expert Career Insights for a Sluggish Job MarketEpisode 242 - The Role of Business Intelligence (BQ), Emotional Intelligence (EQ), and Social Intelligence (SQ) in Career AdvancementEpisode 121 - Impostor Syndrome and Fear of Success: A Conversation, with Michelle RedfernEpisode 37 - The Missing 33%: The CEO Confidant Improving Diversity and Inclusion in the Corporate World, with Michelle RedfernAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 287 - Hiring Makes No Sense Anymore: Why Recruitment and Hiring Feel Like a Burden and How Leaders Can Fix ThemHiring has become a dreaded task for many managers. It feels like a burden rather than an opportunity, especially when organizations are under pressure to restructure, meet operational targets, or operate with reduced budgets. In this of The Job Hunting Podcast (287), I’m sharing part one of a two-part conversation originally recorded for the Lead to Soar podcast, where I was interviewed by Michelle Redfern. Michelle and I explore the realities of hiring from the leader's perspective, especially in the current climate of economic volatility and organizational change. We discuss what makes hiring feel heavy and bureaucratic, and how we can shift the experience to make it more strategic and rewarding. Whether you’re a hiring manager or a job seeker, understanding both sides of the recruitment process is crucial. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction to Job Hunting Dynamics10:06 The Burden of Hiring: Insights for Managers12:59 Navigating the Hiring Process: Challenges and Solutions16:07 Understanding Ghost Jobs and Their Impact19:12 The Importance of Workforce Planning21:57 The Role of AI in Hiring: Balancing Technology and Humanity25:12 Creating a Human-Centric Hiring Process28:02 The Importance of Skills Matrix in Hiring30:54 Fostering a Positive Hiring Culture33:50 Conclusion and Next Steps for Job SeekersLinks mentioned in this episode:Michelle's podcast Lead to Soar podcast, community and corporate servicesEpisode 260 - The Final Stretch: Expert Career Insights for a Sluggish Job MarketEpisode 242 - The Role of Business Intelligence (BQ), Emotional Intelligence (EQ), and Social Intelligence (SQ) in Career AdvancementEpisode 121 - Impostor Syndrome and Fear of Success: A Conversation, with Michelle RedfernEpisode 37 - The Missing 33%: The CEO Confidant Improving Diversity and Inclusion in the Corporate World, with Michelle RedfernAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 286 - If You're Not Showing Up on LinkedIn, You’re Invisible: How Job Hunting Has Changed for Professionals Over 40Experienced corporate professionals over 40 face a paradox: they bring extensive expertise, leadership, and resilience, yet they often confront hiring biases. If you’re over 40 and navigating a career change, know this: You don’t need to reinvent yourself. You just need to reposition. You’ve built a career. Let’s make sure it continues to serve you. Here’s what I want you to remember: Your age and experience are assets. A strong resume and LinkedIn profile work together. Telling the right story matters more than sounding impressive. A focused, intentional search beats mass applications. Reconnection is more powerful than cold outreach. This episode (286) is part 2 of my discussion on how to use age as your advantage to help mid-to-senior level professionals navigate career transitions confidently and effectively. The first part is episode 284, in which I analyze the current job market and discuss how to leverage it rather than see it as a barrier to entry.  Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 Introduction to Career Transition for Professionals Over 4010:21 Mindset Shift: Embracing Age as an Advantage18:33 Crafting Effective Resumes and LinkedIn Profiles31:45 The Power of Storytelling in Job Applications37:10 Strategic Job Search: Quality Over Quantity41:58 Networking: Building Connections with ConfidenceLinks mentioned in this episode:Article on LinkedInEpisode 284 - This Ain’t Your First Recession: How to Navigate Today’s Job Market Like a ProEpisode 283 - How to Succeed Without the Perfect BossEpisode 276 - How to Get a Job in 2025About the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter

Episode 285 - You May Not Want Another Job — You May Want Your Own BusinessOne of the most interesting shifts post-COVID is the increase in the number of professionals choosing small businesses over large institutions. Many are seeking more autonomy, flexible work arrangements, less bureaucracy, quicker decision-making, and the satisfaction of building something tangible. TJ notes that while corporate skills like management and communication are incredibly valuable, small business operations demand flexibility, problem-solving, and comfort with ambiguity. It’s also true that more professionals today are seeking purposeful careers that allow them to apply their skills in more entrepreneurial environments. As corporate professionals rethink what success means to them, many are finding new energy in small business ventures, whether by starting something of their own or joining a growing company. In this episode of The Job Hunting Podcast, I interviewed TJ Slattery, founder of Crow's Nest Consulting. With a background that includes founding a brewery and advising small business owners across the U.S., TJ shares a wealth of insights for professionals looking to transition from corporate life to the small business world. Read the full Blog on the Website31 Days of Action for Job SeekersFind Your Talents: Learn About Your Strengths, and Watch Your Career GrowJoin 5,000+ Readers of The Job Hunting Newsletter: Subscribe NowLear More About Renata's career coaching and coursesTimestamps to guide your listening:00:00 TJ Slattery's Entrepreneurial Journey03:13 Consulting for Small Business Growth06:06 The Importance of Seeking Help09:09 Understanding Entrepreneurial Hubris12:09 Practical Steps for Aspiring Entrepreneurs20:31 The Humbling Journey of Entrepreneurship23:54 Navigating Failure and Risk in Business26:48 The Importance of Job Market Awareness29:06 Misconceptions in Small Business Hiring31:44 The Dynamic Nature of Small Business Roles36:51 The Value of Experienced Professionals in Small Businesses39:58 Preparing Small Businesses for Sale44:51 Future Trends in Small Business49:04 Conclusion and Call to ActionLinks mentioned in this episode:Crowsnest ConsultingTJ Slattery's LinkedInAbout the host, Renata BernardeHello, I'm Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I'm also an executive coach, job-hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. Watch the Episodes on YouTubeFollow Renata on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookX / Twitter