Friday, March 6, 2026

Hidden Job Market -

 Hidden Job Market -


Simple stated, the best jobs are not always advertised. These jobs are held back for several reasons, one of which is the overwhelming number of applicants that come through the online portals. Other is the cost of advertising for jobs.

But, in my opinion, the most important one is the requirements are so unique that they want referrals from qualified sources (employees, selected vendors, trusted advisors). If you believe this to be true, and you should, that is why you avoid the job boards and NETWORK, NETWORK NETWORK and when you stop networking, keep NETWORKING!!!


Get the point. Please respond with questions.

Thursday, March 5, 2026

Job Burnout

Job Burnout has returned a major factor in performance-related issues (then again, did it really leave?) Factors:


1. Toxic Workplaces

2. Bad Management

3. Inadequate Compensation

4. Expectation of Superior Performance on a Daily Basis

5. Stress as related to COVID

6. Job Insecurity / Fear of Layoffs


60% of employees say they would consider looking for a new job where there’s a higher priority on workplace wellbeing.


Sources Bloomberg and Deloitte


+++++


SPECIAL NOTE: I am now taking on speaking engagements to groups as well as accepting invitations to critique resumes, cover letters and LinkedIn profiles at trade shows, workshops, seminars and various other events. Please contact me via ajbresumes@gmail.com or 415.519.9659 for more details.

Job Burnout: Hustle Culture:

  Job Burnout: Hustle Culture:


The “hustle culture” of working long hours for success is no longer resonating with young adults. Burnout is becoming a common complaint, with many younger workers feeling exhausted by the constant pressure to overachieve.


Mental health concerns have prompted them to reevaluate the worth of working themselves to the point of exhaustion. Younger generations report higher rates of burnout than their older counterparts, with many stepping back entirely from roles that demand all their time and energy.


The desire to prioritize well-being over relentless hustle is a major reason why many are opting out of traditional jobs.


Source: MSN.com

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

Job Search Burnout - Instagram

  Job Search Burnout - Instagram


https://www.instagram.com/p/DGHhFf0JY40/?hl=en

Tuesday, March 3, 2026

Survey Says (Cotter Letters):

Survey Says (Cotter Letters):


Here’s what recruiters say will get a candidate rejected:


○ Impersonal Applications (No Hiring Manager’s Name) - 84%

○ No Thank You Note After Interview - 57%

○ Resumes Aren’t Customized and Tailored - 54%

○ No Cover Letter - 45%

○ No Follow Up With Employer After Interview - 37%


For all of you who think a cover letter is not important, read the 4th bullet. For those of you who blindly submit resumes and do not tailor the documents, read #3 and #1.


My LI Profile - https://lnkd.in/gshNVy5


  (Careerbuilder) 

Monday, March 2, 2026

AI Interview Tip - Mirror the Job Description

Mirror the Job Description: AI systems scan for keywords. Use the exact terminology, buzzwords, and technical skills found in the job posting to ensure the algorithm recognizes your relevance.

Friday, February 27, 2026

Practice Your AI Interview

Practice Your AI Interview

Despite the ridiculous of the AI driven interview that many companies, in their 100% stupidity (technology is great but in this case, the utilization of AI-driven technology in the interview process will lead to inefficiencies in the process, bad hires (a costly mistake) and a disfranchised population of commoditized staff members), you still must prepare for the meeting with your robot.  Alas, you can prepare for this "interview" with new "tools", AI-powered platforms like Big Interview or InterviewAI for mock interviews and feedback.

Thursday, February 26, 2026

AI Interviews - Tip #2 for Success

 For that dreaded AI Interview, keep the following top of mind:

 AI analyzes responses for keywords, consistency, confidence, empathy, and sometimes even facial expressions or word choice, providing scores on communication and integrity.  Therefore, re-read the job description and "speak" in their language during the interview.

Avoid Job Search Scams

There are numerous scams on the Internet, esp. LinkedIn that prey on job seekers.  Job hunters need to beware and watch for the following signs:


🚩Replies to your LI comments offering a "new opportunity"
🚩You see copy/pasting the same reply to others on LI
🚩Evasive behavior and failure to answer normal questions
🚩Directions to install a new video/teleconference app (malware)
🚩Requests to send a resume to a Gmail (or non-corporate) address
🚩A recruiter profile page with no or very few connections
🚩The job posting isn't on the company website
🚩Any request for personal data (DOB, SSN#)
🚩Pressure to accept an offer immediately
🚩Text based or chat "interview"
🚩Vague job descriptions

Any of these can point to the common scams I'm hearing about:

➤"Recruiters" requesting a fee for an ATS-friendly resume
➤ Fake job offers to get banking details for "direct deposit"
➤ "Resume Services" that use outdated templates
➤ Fees requested to help with background checks and visas
➤ "Work from home" offers that promise big money
➤ Upfront fees from training, equipment & materials
➤ Phishing via emails & calendar invites
➤ Application and exam fees

Source - Read on LinkedIn - Posted by Sarah Baker Andrus

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Interview Tip #1:

 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Interview Tip #1:


I cannot believe this has become part of the process. However, we cannot change it so here is a bit of advice about how to adapt to this crazy, ridiculous new reality.


Tip #1


Be Concise and Direct: AI may struggle with nuance, so clear, direct, and structured answers are best.

Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Concerning email addresses as related to job searches:

  Concerning email addresses as related to job searches:


Please stay away from legacy domains (aol.com; hotmail.com). These email domains are 25+ years old and can place the user in a negative light because of ageism. Ageism is a huge issue in job search, like it or not. You do not want to be ruled out of consideration because of potential age. Is it legal, no. Can you prove it, doubtful.