Job hunting? Executive coach Beverlie Wilkinson shares her Gold, Silver, Bronze strategy for career success
The job search landscape has changed dramatically – we’re navigating AI-led processes and numerous digital tools, making it more important than ever to stay positive and resilient. As an executive coach, I’ve noticed something crucial: finding a job today is all about mindset.
It’s about knowing yourself, maintaining a positive mindset and building meaningful connections
First, let’s talk about why you might be looking to leave your current role. I frequently hear various reasons for job dissatisfaction and the old adage ‘people leave people’ rings true more often than not. I’ve observed that issues like tedium or complexity in a role can often be resolved with the right manager – job roles can be expanded and training can be provided. However, if you’re struggling with company culture or difficult relationships, that’s a more challenging situation to remedy.
Genius of audacity
I always start by helping clients get crystal clear about what they want. Recently, I worked with a client who knew exactly which industry and role she was targeting. We identified her non-negotiables, which included a maximum one-hour commute, flexible working with no more than three days in the office and a people-centric culture. I encouraged her – as I encourage all my clients – to embrace what I call the ‘genius of audacity’. Don’t just wait for job postings; reach out to those dream companies you’ve always wanted to work for. I’ve seen remarkable results when clients take this bold approach.
I’ve developed a system that I share with my clients: create a spreadsheet with three categories – Gold, Silver and Bronze. Gold companies are your top choices where you hopefully have strong connections. Silver represents your friendship network who might help you reach those Gold companies. Bronze comprises your ‘genius of audacity’ targets – those dream companies you’d love to work for. I’ve found that the more my clients engage with this system, the more in control they feel of their job search.
Try creating a visual board with the logos of companies you aspire to join. Place it on your desk where you can see it daily. I’ve witnessed how this simple practice can keep you motivated and focused – there’s real power in the principle that ‘what you focus on becomes reality’.
Power and curse of LinkedIn
Now, let’s discuss LinkedIn – both its power and its pitfalls. I always emphasise to my clients that their LinkedIn profile is essentially their digital CV and it needs to be impeccable. However, I’ve seen how soul-destroying the platform can be when used ineffectively. So, it’s important to limit your LinkedIn time to one hour per day, ensuring they leave the platform feeling positive rather than drained.
Recommendations are crucial – they breathe life into your profile and showcase your human side beyond the list of achievements.
One of my strongest beliefs is that your network is your most valuable asset in job searching. When clients express hesitation about reaching out to their network, I remind them of a simple truth: ‘everyone wants to help everyone’. Think about it – if a former colleague or friend reached out to you for help, wouldn’t you want to assist them?
Staying organised and resilient
Organisation and methodology are crucial. It’s crucial to maintain regular momentum by touching base with your job search daily, or at least every other day. This approach helps buffer against rejection – if you’re working on multiple opportunities, one ‘no thanks’ won’t hit as hard.
From my experience, staying resilient is perhaps the most critical factor. I encourage my clients to view the job search not as a chore but as an opportunity for growth and discovery. Our mindset profoundly impacts our experience – if we approach something as hard work, it will indeed feel that way. That’s why I help my clients establish routines and rituals that make them feel they’re constantly moving closer to their next position.
Having someone in your corner, like a friend or coach, provides not just guidance but partnership and accountability. It can make the difference between giving up and persevering until you find the right opportunity. Remember, you should be leading your job search, not letting it lead you.
In this AI-driven job market, the human touch becomes even more valuable. While the tools and platforms we use may be digital, the core of successful job searching remains deeply personal – it’s about knowing yourself, maintaining a positive mindset and building meaningful connections. These are the elements that I’ve seen lead to successful transitions time and time again.
Beverlie Wilkinson is founder and executive business coach at Nuggets of Learning
