After 25 years in the corporate world, working at companies like Google, Meta, Salesforce, and American Express, I now help people secure jobs at top-tier organizations through my company, Kadima Careers. We're a career accelerator, working directly with candidates to help them get better jobs quickly, competently, and with significantly improved compensation. We've successfully assisted hundreds of people in securing jobs and negotiating offers.
With the multitude of career experts on LinkedIn, often unverified or uncertified, it's crucial to discern effective advice from misleading ones. Here are some common pieces of advice you should avoid:
### 1. **Frequent Posting on LinkedIn**
Don't rely on frequent posting or commenting to land a job. While it's important to keep your LinkedIn profile up-to-date and market yourself effectively, proactive outreach to relevant contacts is more impactful. Ensure your profile highlights your experience, such as being a program manager with 12 years of experience or a sales executive at top SaaS companies.
### 2. **Avoiding Jobs Based on Listed Salary**
Don't dismiss a job opportunity solely based on the listed salary. It's best to discuss compensation after receiving an offer, as there is often flexibility. Interviewing provides valuable practice and can open up other opportunities. Exceptions include:
- **Overcompensation**: If you're significantly overpaid.
- **Homework Assignments**: Ensure the effort is worth your time.
- **Multiple Interviews**: Prioritize based on potential compensation.
### 3. **Excessive Company Research**
Avoid excessive research to impress interviewers. While understanding the company's values, products, and role is essential, unsolicited work like projects or presentations is generally unnecessary. Focus on connecting with decision-makers instead. Most companies ask surprisingly little about the company itself during interviews.
### 4. **Customizing Your Résumé for Every Job**
You don't need to customize your résumé for every job application. Have a strong résumé that reflects your impact and uses industry-specific language. Consider having two résumés if you're applying for different types of roles, such as individual contributor versus manager, or if you have a diverse background. Focus on getting referrals to ensure your résumé reaches the hiring manager.
### Key Takeaways:
- **LinkedIn**: Keep your profile updated and reach out proactively.
- **Compensation**: Discuss after receiving an offer.
- **Company Research**: Understand the basics but avoid unsolicited work.
- **Résumé**: Have a strong, industry-specific résumé and focus on referrals.
By following these guidelines, you can navigate the job market more effectively and increase your chances of securing a better position.