Real World Advice For the Prospective Job Seeker

Chris Andersen
Published Sep 29, 2025

In a world of AI, finding a job can be hard. Computer algorithms look for boxes to be checked and if the proverbial work shoe doesn't fit, you'll get a rejection letter faster then you can say: "Did a real live person even look at my resume?"

Untold numbers of job seekers report the same thing: after sending out hundreds, if not thousands, of resumes and cover letters, many disappointed career professionals echo a similar response: they weren't even able to land a single interview.

There is a work around, however. There is a solve. And it's not some technology you can't afford. 

It's you.

Your personal network is the key to your next rewarding experience and pay day. 

Make a list of 5 people you went to school with, 5 people you used to work with, 5 people who live in your neighborhood and 5 companies you'd like to work at - even if you don't know anyone, 

Then start typing. Texting. Calling. 

Politely asking your network how they've been. Letting them know why you are considering a new role and what you'd like to do. Be up front. Ask them if their company is adding staff or if they have any leads. For companies you don't have a contact, find one and reach out - cold. This approach is infinitely more effective. 

-

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for instant updates and articles straight to your inbox.

Related Articles

How to Budget Properly During a Job Furlough...

A government shutdown that started on October 1 has forced over 700,000 federal workers into furlough. This means they’re not getting paid right now, but they haven’t lost their jobs. Another group of government...

How Side Quests at Work Improve Productivity and Employee Retention...

What are “side quests” at work? A “side quest” is a term borrowed from video games, where it means a smaller mission or activity done alongside the main task. At work, a side q...

6 Tips for Microshifters as the Trend Grows at Work...

Today, the way we work is changing fast. More people, especially from Generation Z, are moving away from the traditional 9-to-5 job schedule. Instead, they are embracing “microshifting.” Microshifting mea...

11 Well-Paying Jobs in 2025 That Are Great for Extroverts and Not Easily Replaced by AI

If you’re outgoing and enjoy working with people, you might be looking for a career that suits your personality and is future-proof against artificial intelligence (AI). In 2025...

68 Jobs That Now Qualify for No Federal Tax on Tips...

Key Points   The IRS introduced a rule that allows certain workers in 68 job types to avoid paying federal taxes on their tips. This tax break comes from the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” and will le...

America’s Best Employers For Company Culture 2025...

Many Americans work in places where the culture feels toxic and unpleasant each day. This kind of negative workplace environment makes employees unhappy and less productive, and it also hurts the company since more peop...