Job Search and Career Transition

Last month, I shared my observations about lawyers who successfully transitioned to business roles. Many of you resonated with one of the points that I made: that these lawyers tend to be great at issue spotting, but "with an eye for opportunity—not risk." Today I’ll share four ways that have helped me calibrate my issue spotting skill for the business world: 1. Be aware of the bigger goals. Without knowing what my company’s goals were, I would always default to issue-spotting for risk. It’s just how lawyers are trained, I guess. Understanding our top priorities helped me also figure out what our CEO/execs needed, and where our company could find unexpected ways to achieve them. Seeing the bigger picture gave me a framework for understanding how to make tactical, day-to-day type of decisions. 2. Focus on how to “get lucky” instead of “being correct.” There was something comforting about pointing out risks because even if bad things didn’t end up happening, I felt like I was “correct” in warning my teammates about them. Eventually I started using my ability to process fact patterns to quickly visualize multiple unexpected paths to achieving company objectives. Leadership appreciates when you come up with new ways to help them hit their goals. 3. Recognize the hidden costs of the status quo. Your lawyer brain may scream “don’t sign that contract” but what are the consequences of not bringing on that customer? As a startup person, I eventually realized that if we didn’t hit certain revenue milestones in time, it would put fundraising at risk—which would lead to the company running out of money. It dawned upon me why the status quo was unacceptable—even if that path was safer from a legal perspective. 4. Get comfortable acting with incomplete information. Lawyers, especially those of us who come from the law firm world, are used to researching thoroughly before recommending a course of action. However in the business world, speed often matters just as much as accuracy. Which means you have to move quickly and adjust/iterate over time as you learn new information. This can be very uncomfortable for lawyers—but the good news is that it gets easier over time. Would love to hear your thoughts, especially if you’re a business person who works with ex-lawyers, or if you’re a lawyer who’s successfully made the transition! 

“𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞..." That’s what they told me, too. When I transitioned from taxation to Investment Banking, mergers & acquisitions, I heard it all— ❌ “You don’t have the right background.” ❌ “It’s too late to switch now.” ❌ “Start from scratch or stay where you are.” But I refused to let a job title define my future. Instead, I focused on what I did have: Analytical skills, Financial acumen, and the ability to solve complex problems. I learned, I networked, and I proved my worth. Your “irrelevant” experience is actually your secret weapon. Most people think: ❌ “I need to hide my background in marketing now that I’m going into tech.” Smart people think: ✅ “My marketing background gives me a unique edge in tech because I understand user psychology in ways pure technical people never will.” Remember, career transitions aren’t about starting over. They’re about repositioning yourself. If you're looking to make a switch, here’s how to do it without wasting years: 1️⃣ Leverage Transferable Skills – Your past experience holds value. Learn to reframe it. 2️⃣ Start creating before you apply – Proof of work speaks louder than any resume. 3️⃣ Network with Intent – The right conversations open doors faster than cold applications. 4️⃣ Position your experience strategically – A compelling story beats a perfect background. 5️⃣ Upskill smartly – Learn what actually matters for your new role. I know how tough it can be because I’ve been there. But I also know that making a career pivot is possible—without starting from scratch. If you’re looking to transition careers and don’t know where to start, let’s talk. I’d love to help. Drop a comment or DM me. Your past doesn’t define your future. You do. LinkedIn LinkedIn News India LinkedIn Guide to Creating #mindset #career #transition #knowledge #skills #upskill

"I am 63 years old, I think by far ageism is my key limiting factor." A client shared this with me last week. Because ageism + outdated hiring habits are very real. Resumes that quietly shout “I’m older” get filtered out before anyone sees your value. Thankfully, fixing this is simple once you know where to start. And unlike fighting the entire hiring system, this won’t cost you months of your life and every ounce of your confidence. Use this 3-step Age-Smart Resume Framework 👇 1️⃣ Trim your timeline Focus on the last 10–15 years. Older roles can be moved into a short “Earlier Career” or “Additional Experience” line. Tip: If a much older role is still essential, highlight the achievement, not the date. 2️⃣ Rewrite your summary Instead of opening with “Seasoned professional with 25+ years of experience”, lead with who you are and what you do now (e.g., “Operations Director who cuts costs and improves delivery speed for global manufacturers.”). Mistake to avoid: Putting “20+ / 30+ years of experience” in the first line of your resume or headline, it frames you by years, not impact. 3️⃣ Modernize education If your degree is more than 3 years old, you don’t need graduation years. Listing the degree, school, and location is enough. This keeps the focus on your qualifications, not the date you finished them. Quick example: Avoid → “B.A. in English, George Washington University, 1979” Use → “B.A. in English, George Washington University, Washington, D.C.” A quick example: I worked with a client in his early 60s who had a 4-page resume: - Every role since the late 80s - “30+ years of experience” in the first line - Graduation dates from decades ago - Brilliant background. But on paper, his resume was aging him before anyone got to his accomplishments. We: - Cut detailed experience to the last 15 years and turned older roles into a short “Earlier Career” section. - Replaced “Seasoned professional with 30+ years…” with a strong branding line focused on outcomes. - Removed old graduation dates and added recent upskilling and certifications near the top. Within two weeks, he started getting more interviews for roles. Same person. Same experience. Different first impression. 3 reasons why this works: Reason 1: It shifts the focus from age → relevance. You’re showing what matters most to employers now: recent wins, relevant skills, and current impact. Reason 2: It removes unnecessary age “signals.” Old dates, lengthy timelines, and "30+ years" language quietly trigger bias. When you edit those out, you’re not hiding your age; you’re removing distractions so your strengths get seen first. Reason 3: It positions you as experienced and current. A modern summary, focused timeline, and updated education section send a clear message: “I have depth of experience and I’m still growing, learning, and contributing.” You don’t have to erase your history. You just have to present it in a way that lets employers see your value before your age.

You applied to 100+ jobs but no interviews? Here's what's actually happening. Your experience is valuable. You're just invisible. Let me explain why, and how to fix it. When you apply online, your resume goes into a database called an ATS (Applicant Tracking System). Think of it like a massive filing cabinet. Now here's the key: Some recruiters don't read every resume. They search. Just like you search Google, they search their database: "Python AND data analysis" "SAFe AND agile transformation" "Tableau AND dashboard" If your resume doesn't have their exact search terms, you’re making it harder to get discovered. You're not rejected. You're just not found. But here's the secret: The job description often tells you EXACTLY what keywords they'll search for. It's like having the answer key. Example from a real job posting: If they say "Experience with Snowflake required"... → They'll search "Snowflake" → Make sure you write "Built data warehouse in Snowflake…" Not "cloud database" or "modern data platform." Use their exact words: Snowflake. I've mapped out 80 keywords that get candidates noticed in 2025: Top searches happening right now: • Python, TensorFlow, LangChain (AI roles) • Kubernetes, Terraform, Docker (tech leadership) • Power BI, Tableau, SQL (data leadership) • SAFe, Agile, DevOps (transformation roles) Your action plan: 1. Read the job description carefully 2. Circle every tool, platform, or methodology mentioned 3. Add those EXACT terms to your resume (if you have that experience) 4. Use them naturally in your accomplishments Example: Instead of: "Led team through digital modernization" You say: "Led SAFe agile transformation using ServiceNow and Jira, reducing delivery time by 40%" You have the experience. Now make it searchable. Your next role isn't rejecting you. It just hasn't found you yet. You’ve got this! 💡 Save this cheat sheet of 80 searchable keywords ♻️ Share to help someone in your network Follow me for more insider recruiting insights

As an executive recruiter, I've witnessed countless professionals transform unexpected layoffs into powerful career pivots. Here's your comprehensive guide for turning this challenge into an opportunity 📈 Immediate Actions (First 48 Hours): • Document everything from your termination meeting • Review severance package details thoroughly • Address healthcare coverage gaps • File for unemployment benefits • Archive important work samples and documentation • Connect with colleagues before losing access Next Steps: • Give yourself permission to process the change • Update your LinkedIn profile strategically • Review your financial position and timeline • Reflect on your career direction • Start networking with purpose Remember that a layoff is often more about company circumstances than individual performance. I've placed numerous executives who used their layoff as a catalyst for significant career advancement. This is your opportunity to: • Reassess your career trajectory • Target organizations aligned with your values • Build a more intentional professional network • Position yourself for roles that truly excite you The key is maintaining momentum while being strategic about your next move. Don't rush into the first opportunity - use this time to ensure your next role is a genuine step forward. Check out my newsletter for more insights here: https://lnkd.in/ei_uQjju #executiverecruiter #eliterecruiter #jobmarket2025 #profoliosai #resume #jobstrategy #careerresilience

If you’re thinking of leaving your 9 to 5 job to become an entrepreneur, here's a mini masterclass for you: 👇 Things to consider: > Planning > Emergency Fund > Sustainability > Testing the business > Contingencies > Scaling 📌 Planning Do proper planning of what you want to do next before leaving your job.  - Find your niche - Find target audience - Find clients - Make a proposal - Decide the narratives Do this for 2-3 months before taking the leap because research is crucial. 📌 Emergency Fund Always make sure that you have 1 year of emergency funds to support your business expenses and pay your employees if needed. It takes months and sometimes years to earn profits in a business. So have some cash in hand to bridge the gap. 📌 Sustainability Research your business and see how much demand is there. Make sure that your business is sustainable and that you are not just starting it out of boredom. Research about the market, demand, and how you can deliver better than others. 📌 Testing the business Before starting a business, do it as a side hustle for 6 months and see if you can do it or not. It will help you understand the business needs, management, profits, and scope of business. 📌 Contingencies What if your business fails? Think about this question and set up proper systems to avoid cash crunches and sudden changes. Always have some contingency plans in place so that your business will not suffer. 📌 Scaling Now that you have A/B tested your business operations, it’s time to scale. Take a leap and start your business. I know it may sound easy in writing but I left my full-time job 2 years ago and became an entrepreneur myself, so I know what questions will come to your mind. It might not be easy. Hell, it will be overwhelming at times but the fun and thrill will always be there. You will learn so much in so little time. I hope this was helpful.

I’ve been laid off twice. The first time, it crushed me. The second time, it didn’t. The first time, it took me over a year to find my next role. The second time, it took six weeks. What I learned was how to treat a layoff like a strategy problem not a personal one. 1/ It happens. If you work in marketing or tech, you’re likely going to experience a layoff at some point. It’s not about talent. It’s not about effort. It’s usually about poor financial management or a shift in priorities you had zero control over. It’s part of the modern career landscape — especially since 2020. Once you accept that, you stop taking it personally. That’s the hardest part. 2/ Don’t get stuck there. You don’t have time to spiral. You have time to strategize. Every day you spend second-guessing yourself is a day you could spend positioning yourself for what’s next. The first time, I questioned everything. The second time, I got to work. 3/ Relationships > Applications. The first time, I applied for hundreds of jobs online. The second time, I focused on conversations. I reached out to people I respected. I showed up online. I used my marketing instincts to position myself just like I would a brand. That changed everything. 4/ Build before you need it. The smartest thing I ever did was start showing up on LinkedIn years ago. Creating content. Building a network. Contributing. So when the second layoff came, I wasn’t starting from zero, I already had a community that believed in me. That made finding my next opportunity so much faster. Layoffs happen. But they don’t define you. If you treat them like a business problem instead of a personal failure, you’ll handle them with clarity. I’m rooting for you. #marketing #careers #opentowork

Lost Your Job? Think of It as a New Beginning.?? Seeing posts about layoffs from big companies like Amazon can feel scary. For many people, it’s not just news—it’s a big shock and a hard time. If you or someone you know has lost a job, remember this: ➔➔It’s okay to feel sad or afraid. ➔➔This is not your failure. It’s just a pause, a chance to start again. And maybe this is the right time to learn new things and move toward the future of work, especially with AI and technology growing fast. Here are 20 simple steps, divided into three stages, to help you recover and move ahead with confidence: ≫ I. Process & Heal (First Week) 1. Take 1–2 days to relax and calm down. Don’t rush. 2. Make a simple daily plan—include time for job search, learning, and some exercise. 3. Talk to friends or share your story online. Being honest helps you connect with others. 4. Rest properly. A fresh mind gives better ideas and confidence. ≫ II. Prepare & Rebuild (Next Few Weeks) 5. Update your LinkedIn and resume. Add numbers to show your achievements. 6. Decide what kind of job you really want next. 7. Talk to mentors or old colleagues. Networking is better than just sending random job applications. 8. Use November and December to get ready. Companies start hiring more in January (Q1). 9. Add the right keywords on LinkedIn so recruiters can find you easily. 10. Focus on companies that are still hiring or growing even now. ≫ III. Upskill & Pivot (Build Your Future) 11. Learn new skills—especially in AI, automation, and data. These are in high demand. 12. Share your learning journey on LinkedIn or social media. Show you are growing. 13. Read, comment, and post online about your field. It helps people notice your expertise. 14. Look for new roles or industries where your skills can still fit. 15. Improve soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. 16. Try freelance or part-time projects to stay active and earn while you search. 17. Keep learning every week—stay curious! 18. Check your progress every week. Even small wins count. 19. Don’t lose hope—every step is taking you forward. 20. Remember: This is not just about getting another job—it’s about creating your next chapter. A layoff can be a blessing in disguise. Let’s use this moment to grow, learn, and build something even better. #Amazon #Layoffs #bounceback

Don't quit your 9-5 to go "all in" as a solopreneur until you have 4 things: - Proven offer - Clients paying you - Results and case studies - Consistent lead gen systems Give yourself 6-12 months to build skills and undeniable social proof before you leap. In 2019 I quit my job, spent a fat chunk of my life savings, and failed at going solo. I had 0/4 essentials above. Didn't know how to write. Didn't know how to sell. Didn't know how to build. In 2022 I made a successful transition from 9-5 to building a full-time creator income. But I worked for 12 months alongside my 9-5: • Testing ideas • Growing on LinkedIn • Finding proof of concept I'm confident everyone who reads this can build a full-time income as a creator. But only if you set yourself up for success. That's why I write weekly guides giving actionable strategies for making the leap. Need a good place to start? Read this: https://lnkd.in/e-RX6KFj

It's harder to find a W2 job after a stint of entrepreneurship. "When I was laid off, I knew that finding my next Chief Marketing Officer position could take a while. I didn't want to settle for a job just to have a job. The challenge was that my family couldn't go months on end without a paycheck. While I was job searching, I started doing brand consulting. It was fun, but the end goal was always an in-house position. I found it incredibly hard to job search once I announced that I was consulting. I also had a branding problem. Should my LinkedIn page be about the work I do with small businesses and startups? Should it tell my story as a brand-building CMO?" - Former client This former client's experience is not unique. A white paper by Jacob Waddingham & Miles Zachary titled, Effect of Entrepreneurial Exit in the Hiring Context found that Former business owners were actually less likely to get interviews compared with applicants with only traditional experience. The longer they were out of the traditional workforce, the worse their chances of success were. From personal experience, I've found that people no longer ask me to consider jobs. When I was in the corporate world, I would occasionally get random emails or calls from people who said, "Hey, you'd be great at this job. You should apply" Doesn't happen anymore. It's OK—I'm not actively looking for a job; but if I did want to make a career change, I would have to move into a place of vulnerability & activate my network. Most job seekers like to search in secret, but for entrepreneurs, it is especially important that they notify their connections of their desire to pivot. HOW DOES A FOUNDER SOLVE THE MARKETING CHALLENGE? 1. To enhance visibility to recruiters, individuals should ensure their public branding, such as their LinkedIn profile, aligns with their primary career objective. This alignment increases the likelihood of their profile appearing in search results when recruiters are seeking candidates. The marketer could maintain a separate, private website tailored for soliciting business for their consulting firm. This separation enables them to clearly present their professional identity for job opportunities while effectively managing their consulting business outreach. 2. RESUME: I've assisted numerous founders in transitioning back to corporate roles. Founders inherently wear many hats, so it's vital to tailor their resumes to the target position. For instance, pivoting from founder to a supply chain leader requires highlighting relevant experiences like inventory management, supplier performance, & vendor management, while excluding unrelated activities such as marketing and social media management. SILVER LINING Gustavo Manso's study at the University of California, Berkeley revealed that self-employed individuals who transition back to corporate roles earn approximately 10% more than their salaried counterparts with similar attributes.