- Jobseeking is Hard
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- #133 - Fix Your LinkedIn Profile
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Hey There!
Welcome to Issue #133 of Jobseeking is Hard!
Today's issue is brought to you by Nautilus! If you're a free subscriber and value our content, it costs $0 to support us by taking .0005 seconds to click the ad and check out the service. Easy peasy. Show our sponsor some love for supporting Jobseeking is Hard! Thanks!
This week we’re talking about:
Stupid interview questions
A jobseeking horror story about being mocked during a video interview
Demonstrating your value on LinkedIn so your profile actually gets attention
The best (worst?) job posting of the week
And for Premium subscribers I’m:
Debunking another out-of-touch post from a recruiter claiming to know what every jobseeker should say
Giving you tips on how to prep for interviews when the job description is vague
Telling you why naming your resume file might matter
Answering a Premium subscriber's question about applying when you don't meet every requirement. I'll explain when to take your shot and when to focus your energy elsewhere.
Let’s get to it! But first…
As a special thank you for Premium subscribers, I’m offering another exclusive $50 discount on Karpiak Consulting’s career services! From now until May 20, you can use your coupon code on everything except Mini Resume Reviews and gift cards.
You can find your exclusive coupon code below in the Premium section!
Terms & Conditions: This discount is only for active Premium subscribers and cannot be shared, transferred, or applied retroactively. It is not valid on any previous purchases, including services that have already been purchased but not yet completed.
Take advantage of this offer while it lasts!
Not a Premium subscriber? Upgrade here!
Why upgrade? For less than $0.63/day, you get:
Extra Tips & Advice: Gain exclusive insights, strategies, and advice from a recruiter with over 20 years of experience in the field. Discover what hiring managers truly value and how to stand out at every step of your job search.
Access to Previous Issues: Explore a library of knowledge with all 100+ past issues of the newsletter. Each edition is packed with proven strategies, practical advice, and real-world jobseeking stories to give you an edge in today’s competitive job market. From resume tips to handling tough interview questions, you’ll find answers to every challenge.
Exclusive Q&A: Have questions about your job search? Premium subscribers can ask Adam directly! Questions will be featured in upcoming issues, with detailed answers tailored to real-world scenarios, ensuring you get the guidance you need.
Bonus Content: As part of your Premium subscription, you’ll receive 20 additional job search tips delivered to your inbox over the next 20 days. This includes advice on avoiding common mistakes and maximizing your job search strategy to land interviews faster.
Speaking of Karpiak Consulting…
SERVICE UPDATE
Thinking about booking a service from Karpiak Consulting?
We’ve dramatically lowered our service completion times!
Right now we’re offering:
Reviews turned around in 1–2 business days after we receive payment and info.
Edits completed in 2–3 business days after all materials are submitted.
Note: These faster timelines only apply if you send in your materials right after purchase. If there’s a delay, your spot might get bumped to the next available window, which could mean waiting longer…up to 2 weeks.
We aren’t sure how long we’ll have these shorter turnaround times, so if you’ve been on the fence about booking, now’s the time. Just make sure to check the ETA listed on the service page...that’s always up-to-date.
STUPID INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
In one of my first interviews out of college, I got asked if I was a bully in high school.
Was the interviewer’s last name “O’Doyle?”
Last week, someone posted this on LinkedIn:
I just spoke with someone who was asked to recite the alphabet backwards during a job interview. Adam Karpiak do you have this one in your collection of weird interview questions?
I do now! And are we sure that this was a job interview and not, in fact, a sobriety test?
In a panel interview, I was asked, "Would you rather go shopping in your underwear or to the beach nude and why?"
I chose shopping because it was “more productive.” Hey, when you need a job, you need a job...
Everything about the job search is performative, and those bills aren’t going to pay themselves.
Now I’m curious…
Would you rather go shopping in your underwear or to the beach nude and why? |
Want to share your stupid interview questions? Reply or email [email protected]
SPEAKING OF POLLS
Last issue, I asked you, “Are you a lover or a fighter?” It was close, but more than 55% of you are lovers apparently!
Some of the best responses:
“I would be throwing hands if an interviewer asked me this.”
“I'll fight my way out the door if a coworker tries to love me ”
“As long as you consider how many times I think 'come at me, bro' during meetings.”
But my favorite was:
“Lover. And reports from the field have been positive.”
COMMUNITY CATHARSIS
In my 40s I gained 50 lbs in a short time due to undiagnosed angina.
I had a video interview for a software designer position with an out-of-town company that required me to sit in a chair for a full-length view, while my interviewers (two 20-something men) sat behind a table (also full view, I could see their feet).
During the interview they were constantly messaging each other on their laptops, trying not to giggle.
The cause of their giggling became apparent when they started making comments like "it's clear you're a heavyweight in your field" and asking about a job situation where I had to be "the bigger person."
I wondered if I was being paranoid, until one made a joke and the other one (forgetting I could see their legs) kicked him while giggling because it was a joke too far.
I’m sorry that happened to you. This is beyond unprofessional. It's mean. It's cruel. It's disgusting.
You're trying to have an interview and these two clowns are making jokes like it's a middle school cafeteria.
The only thing they proved in that interview is that they're completely unqualified to lead or work with anyone.
Subscribers…
Has anything like this ever happened to you? |
If there's a jobseeking horror story *you’d* like to share, reply or email [email protected]
SHAMELESS PLUG
If your job search needs a little more help, Karpiak Consulting offers resume and LinkedIn services, as well as job search strategy coaching.
Who knows...maybe my insights will blow you away like they did for this LinkedIn Profile Review client 🤷♂️
So, what did I tell this client (that was "totally worth every cent" 🫡) to help them go from a vague, forgettable profile to one that actually positions them for the roles they want?
Demonstrating the value add.
To make your LinkedIn profile stand out, you need to go beyond listing your current job title and past roles. If recruiters aren't reaching out to you on LinkedIn, odds are your profile doesn't make a compelling case for what you bring to the table.
If your headline only reflects your current job title, you're missing an opportunity to shape how you're perceived. Instead, use it to highlight what you actually do best and where you're headed. Think about what someone in your target role would search for...and make sure those keywords are in your headline. Clarity is important, but so is relevance. Relevance is key...you want to show up in searches and immediately demonstrate alignment with the kinds of roles you want next.
The headline gets the recruiter to click...but your About section is where you bring it all together and get them to engage.
Most people either stuff it with buzzwords or leave it as a generic paragraph that repeats their resume. Instead, treat it like a professional snapshot: Why do you do what you do? What are you good at? What have you accomplished that you're proud of? And what direction are you moving in? Think of it as your chance to offer insight into your career path...not just what you've done, but what you care about and where you're going next. Provide a 360-degree view of the "professional you," demonstrating your passion, success, and what you want to achieve next.
This is what gives your profile life. It's about making it easy for someone to see what kind of value you bring.
When written well, your profile doesn't just get more views...it drives engagement. A complete profile with personality, experience, specific examples of success, and all of your software skills ensures that you don't just show up in recruiters' searches, but that they also message you. It helps recruiters and hiring managers quickly understand your strengths and your direction.
If your profile isn't making that clear, that's why your inbox is empty. Well, besides the scams, I mean.
If you’re feeling like your resume isn’t telling your story the way it should and don’t know how to frame your experience, our services can help.
BEST (WORST?) JOB POST
OF THE WEEK
Here’s the job post that got the most people talking on my Instagram this week!
job applications are so stupid
If you come across an irritating job posting, email it to the newsletter or DM me on Instagram and I’ll add it to the list to post!
Today's issue is also brought to you by The Rundown AI! C’mon give it a click and help support your favorite job search newsletter 🙂
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"With so many people applying, is it worth applying to a job if I don't meet every requirement in the posting? Would I be better off spending my time in other ways?"
Check out the Premium Section below for my answer! Not a Premium Subscriber? Upgrade here: www.JobseekingIsHard.com/upgrade
Why upgrade? For less than $0.63/day, you get:
Extra Tips & Advice: Gain exclusive insights, strategies, and advice from a recruiter with over 20 years of experience in the field. Discover what hiring managers truly value and how to stand out at every step of your job search.
Access to Previous Issues: Explore a library of knowledge with all 100+ past issues of the newsletter. Each edition is packed with proven strategies, practical advice, and real-world jobseeking stories to give you an edge in today’s competitive job market. From resume tips to handling tough interview questions, you’ll find answers to every challenge.
Exclusive Q&A: Have questions about your job search? Premium subscribers can ask Adam directly! Questions will be featured in upcoming issues, with detailed answers tailored to real-world scenarios, ensuring you get the guidance you need.
Bonus Content: As part of your Premium subscription, you’ll receive 20 additional job search tips delivered to your inbox over the next 20 days. This includes advice on avoiding common mistakes and maximizing your job search strategy to land interviews faster.
Jobseekers, have a great rest of your week, and good luck with those applications!
-Adam
PS!! If you're enjoying the newsletter, let people know! Forward it, post it on social, tag me, whatever...the bigger the discussion, the better! The idea is to help as many people as possible!
About Adam- Recognized as a leading voice on hiring and workplace trends, Adam has been recruiting and providing career advice since 2003, developing high-trust relationships based on honesty with companies and jobseekers. A highly sought-after speaker, he has appeared in numerous outlets, including Bloomberg News, Business Insider, LinkedIn, and CNNMoney. You can find out more about Adam's resume and coaching services here.
AFFILIATES
NOTE: As an affiliate to these services, we will receive compensation if you purchase products or services through the links provided.
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A subscription gets you:
- • Extra Tips & Advice: Gain exclusive insights, strategies, and advice from a recruiter with over 20 years of experience in the field. Discover what hiring managers truly value and how to stand out at every step of your job search.
- • Access to Previous Issues: Explore a library of knowledge with all 100+ past issues of the newsletter. Each edition is packed with proven strategies, practical advice, and real-world jobseeking stories to give you an edge in today’s competitive job market. From resume tips to handling tough interview questions, you’ll find answers to every challenge.
- • Exclusive Q&A: Have questions about your job search? Premium subscribers can ask Adam directly! Questions will be featured in upcoming issues, with detailed answers tailored to real-world scenarios, ensuring you get the guidance you need.
- • Bonus Content: As part of your Premium subscription, you’ll receive 20 additional job search tips delivered to your inbox over the next 20 days. This includes advice on avoiding common mistakes and maximizing your job search strategy to land interviews faster.
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