IU #021: From $25k to $250k Jobs: These Tips Helped My Clients

Last month, I had back-to-back coaching calls that really made me think.

One client was an aspiring data analyst aiming for a $25k role. She didn’t have much experience. Instead, she was making the most of her data projects.

The other was applying for Head of Data Science. This guy had been around many businesses for over 30 years. However, he was looking to pivot towards a senior data role. A $250k position.

You might think their job search journeys were different, and in many ways, they were. But because I had these 2 calls back-to-back, I saw the similarities.

I’m delighted to say that I’ve heard great news from them both. Today, I’ll share how each client landed their dream role.

One last thing before we begin. Are you looking to pivot your career?

I have 3 spots left for my 1:1 career coaching. If you’re considering switching your career, reply to this email with the word ‘Coaching’. I’ll reach out and explain how my new programme I can help.

Let’s dive in.

Everyone's Struggling in the Same Ways:

Whether it's your first job or a top executive position, everyone worries about the same things.

My client aiming for the $25k data analyst role often felt disheartened. She told me, 'Every time I get rejected, a little voice tells me that I'm not good enough.'

It’s so difficult to hear things like this. But it’s not surprising. When you are battling daily rejection, of course, your confidence dips.

The Head of Data Science, targeting a $250k role, shared similar fears. He confessed during a session, 'I sometimes wonder if my previous successes were simply luck.'

I was shocked by this because I really look up to him for all his incredible achievements. To be honest, I’ve had these thoughts myself. I just couldn’t believe he had them too.

(By the way, I’ve asked permission from both of my clients to share these stories. I wouldn’t be blabbing about them on the internet without their permission).

It's Not All About Technical Skills. It's Also About Transferable Skills:

I always say, 'You may need to start remembering your life differently.'

For the junior analyst, we uncovered her problem-solving skills. She realized, 'My time in retail, handling tough customers, was actually me solving problems!'

This was a big moment because she now had evidence of her transferable skills. Something tangible she can use as proof during job interviews.

For the Head of Data Science, our focus was on leadership. His resume was filled with technical skills, but we switched it up. We focused on how he’s been a leader his whole career. Even before it was in his job, he was leading his team.

Essentially, both clients had the skills they needed to land the job. They just hadn’t described themselves in the right way. Once they switched their focus, their results dramatically improved.

Your Journey Matters, But Your Story Matters More:

You will hate me saying this (all my clients do anyway), but securing a job is like running an election campaign.

Yup. I told you that you weren’t going to like it. It's true though.

Whether you want to hear it or not, you must do some self-promotion. There is no room for modesty. You must tell a compelling story that people can remember.

The junior analyst started seeing her lack of experience not as a weakness, but as a journey of relentless learning and growth. She said, 'I now talk about my past in a more confident way. I’m no longer embarrassed by my lack of experience.'

For the senior role, it was about highlighting a history of innovative and effective leadership. He realized, 'It's my personality that defines my leadership style.' We leaned into the little things he does throughout the day that make him different to everyone else.

As they shared more stories, I felt a deeper connection with them. I knew that if they described themselves like that in job interviews, they would build a connection with the hiring manager. These little details can help show your value while building an emotional connection with the person you’re speaking to.

Your story isn't just what happened to you; it's how you tell it.

Seeing them grow and overcome their fears was incredibly rewarding. When they texted to say they got the jobs, I was so happy. Moments like these remind me why I love coaching.

If any of my tips have ever helped you, please reach out and let me know.

If you're ready to get a little more help with your job search, I'm here to help. Just reply with 'Coaching.' We can walk through your career switch together.

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P.S.

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