The Job Market is Brutal

Ghosting. Delays. Roles that may not even exist

If you’re feeling stuck, it’s not just you. . . the strategies that worked 2 years ago aren’t working today.

Here are three things to do differently to stay sane and get results:

1. Ask for the Referral, Not the Coffee

This may be controversial but Skip the “Can we hop on a quick call?” Nobody wants another Zoom. Instead, send a three-line note to the person who can open the door:

“Hi Alex, I’m applying for the Product Lead role in your org. Would you feel comfortable forwarding my resume or tagging me internally? I’d really appreciate it.”

Clear request, easy yes-or-no. People love being helpful when the lift is small and specific.

2. Broadcast Your Joy Signal

Whether you're job hunting or dating, the same rule applies: people are drawn to people who are lit up. If you're excited about what you’re building, learning, or exploring—share it. Post about it. Talk about it in interviews. Let your energy do the heavy lifting.

Instead of chasing roles you think you should want, show the world what you're already great at and genuinely enjoy. Passion is magnetic. Confidence is contagious. And joy? It's a referral-generator all on its own.

3. Get in the Room (My Coaching Intensive Starts Next Week!)

Job searches are lonely and talking to your dog about transferable skills only goes so far. Come join my 6-session Coaching Intensive for Tech Leaders:

• What it is: strategic coaching + a hand-picked peer network

• Who it’s for: exceptional tech folks job-hunting, plotting a pivot, or just plain stuck

• Why now: the market’s crazy; clarity and community beat chaos

• Risk level: lower than your daily latte habit—try it, learn a ton, and decide if deeper coaching makes sense

  
  

We kick off next week (June 16th), and I’ve kept a few seats open for people who finally want momentum.

Feeling stuck doesn’t mean you have to stay stuck. If you’re ready to quit yelling into the ATS void, let’s talk. And let’s tackle this weird market together.

If you want help figuring out what you want, how to talk about your strengths, and how to navigate this market with confidence, let’s talk. 

You don’t have to do this alone