Find Your Dream Job: Insider Tips For Finding Work, Advancing Your Career, And Loving Your Job

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16295&preview=true)  The job market feels tighter than ever, but according to Find Your Dream Job guest Scott Thompson, you can still get hired faster by avoiding common mistakes and making strategic choices that help you stand out from the competition. Scott shares that today's hiring takes nearly two weeks longer than during 2022's peak, with available jobs dropping 40% as quit rates have plummeted to one-third of Great Resignation levels. While healthcare, accounting, and finance continue growing, HR, marketing, and IT have pulled back significantly. Most job seekers respond by sending more applications, but Scott argues this "spaghetti at the wall" approach backfires. His strategy centers on a powerful statistic: 86% of job seekers land positions through networking and referrals, while only 14% succeed through blind applications. Scott recommends aligning your LinkedIn profile with your resume since recruiters search

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16293&preview=true)  Most job searches lack direction because people can't answer a fundamental question: What specific work would actually energize you? According to Find Your Dream Job guest Theresa White, career clarity means more than understanding your skills and values — it requires knowing which specific roles genuinely excite you and feel realistic to pursue. Without this clarity, job seekers resort to applying broadly for any available position, leaving their professional networks unable to offer targeted assistance. Theresa identifies three barriers that keep people stuck: analysis paralysis from endless worksheets that never translate into action, the sunk cost fallacy that traps them in unfulfilling careers due to the time and money already invested, and simply not knowing how to move from abstract career advice to concrete next steps. Her Career Clarity Formula centers on distinguishing between skills you're

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16287&preview=true)  Career pivots during uncertain times can lead to unexpected opportunities. Find Your Dream Job guest Mitch Kutin successfully transitioned from fitness gym operations manager to university recruiter, navigating the shift from hands-on physical work to a professional office environment. After experiencing a poor culture fit at one company, Mitch learned that researching an organization's culture matters as much as its role requirements. His successful strategy involved meticulous organization – tracking applications, tailoring resumes for specific positions, and analyzing success rates. Mitch stresses that today's high-volume environment requires persistence and treating rejection as a numbers game. Don't limit yourself geographically, as expanding the search radius significantly increases opportunities. Success comes from thorough company research, customized applications over easy-apply features, and

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16291&preview=true)  Job searching involves invisible emotional labor that can quietly erode your confidence and self-worth. According to Find Your Dream Job guest Alondra Canizal Hsu, constant rejection and uncertainty cause job seekers to question their value, especially when they don't receive feedback or explanations. BIPOC, first-generation, and immigrant professionals face additional challenges through code-switching and navigating spaces not originally designed for them, often feeling pressure to minimize their cultural identity. The emotional toll manifests as self-doubt about accomplishments, comparison with others on social media, and attributing rejections to personal failings rather than market realities. Alondra recommends building both formal and informal support networks – from family cheerleaders to professional "boards of directors" who can advocate and connect you with opportunities. She emphasizes track

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16289&preview=true)  Your story is your most powerful job search tool, yet most candidates fail to use it effectively. According to Find Your Dream Job guest Levi Gaytan, job seekers without personal narratives appear formulaic and forgettable to hiring managers. Stories create connections, showing employers why you're applying and how your past experience relates to their needs. Levi's approach uses two frameworks: SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) and VRIO (value, rarity, imitability, organization). He says effective stories follow a simple formula: before, action, result, and then why it matters to the employer. Every experience contains transferable skills – parenting demonstrates leadership, driving for Uber shows resourcefulness. Rather than weak language like "supported," use strong action words like "led" and "directed." Success comes from authentic self-reflection and conducting inform

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16262&preview=true)  Starting a job search without a strategy is like wandering in the dark. According to Find Your Dream Job guest Mher Mardoyan, most job seekers make the mistake of immediately updating their resume and applying online without a clear focus. This "spray and pray" approach leads to zero responses because it lacks intention. Mher's seven-step framework transforms job searching from day one: identify your core values, maintain a positive mindset throughout the marathon-like process, and craft compelling stories that make you memorable. Successful job searching requires treating it like a project with weekly goals and dedicated time blocks. Rather than applying to 50 jobs with generic resumes, focus on fewer opportunities where your skills truly align. The key differentiator? Networking and relationship building – many positions are filled through referrals, not online applications. About Our Guest: Mher

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16242&preview=true)  A successful job search starts with self-knowledge, not sending out applications. According to Find Your Dream Job guest Aoife O’Brien, many job seekers make the mistake of jumping into similar roles after feeling unhappy at work, only to land in the same situation again. Aoife’s "Know, Show, Grow" framework encourages starting with three core pillars: values – what truly matters to you beyond a paycheck; needs – what keeps you motivated day to day; strengths – what energizes you and comes naturally. Without this foundation, you risk repeating the cycle of unfulfilling jobs. Aoife also recommends showing your value by tying your strengths to real business outcomes from past roles. Instead of applying everywhere, focus on opportunities that align with your authentic self, and submit fewer, better applications. About Our Guest: Aoife O'Brien is the founder of Happier at Work.  Resources in This E

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16240&preview=true) Job searching requires both emotional resilience and strategic efficiency. Find Your Dream Job guest Jontae Grace learned this during his six-month job search after being laid off, including the crushing disappointment of reaching final interviews twice without receiving an offer. His advice: separate your self-worth from your employment status and never stop applying until you have a formal offer. Jontae advocates for using quick apply functions on job boards to save time: what traditionally takes 30-45 minutes per application can be reduced to seconds. He also suggests looking beyond salary to total compensation packages, sharing how one employer's wellness reimbursement program provided $1,500 annually in real value through dollar-for-dollar matching on health and wellness expenses. About Our Guest: Jontae Grace is an employee relations specialist at Do Good Multnomah.  Resources in This Epi

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16227&preview=true)  Do you hesitate to share with a hiring manager what other opportunities you’re pursuing? Do you think this will hurt your chances of being hired? Find Your Dream Job guest Carly Richter says it’s actually the opposite. Letting a potential employer know of other possible options is a great way to build rapport. Carly says it builds trust, relieves stress, and helps create a hiring timeline. Carly warns against sharing too much in an interview; answer the questions you are asked without oversharing personal details.  About Our Guest: Carly Richter is a senior recruiter and account manager with HR Annie Recruitment.  Resources in This Episode: Learn more about how Carly can help you in your career by visiting truecallingrecruitment.com. Connect with Carly on LinkedIn. Use promo code DREAMJOB at the link below to get an exclusive 60% off an annual plan at incogni.com/dreamjob. Learn mo

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16221&preview=true)  It may not be difficult to find a job, but to find one that is personally and professionally fulfilling can be much harder. How do you approach a job search that ends with a position you love? Find Your Dream Job guest Elona Landau suggests beginning with self-reflection. What are your values? What means the most to you? Follow that with a mindset check. What do you believe about yourself and your ability to perform? And finally, Elena says, clarify your skill set. What can you offer an employer that will solve their problems, and what skills are you continuing to develop to further your career advancement?  About Our Guest: Elona Landau is the principal of the Department of Practical Sunshine. Resources in This Episode: If you’re a manager or director with a growth mindset, or an individual who needs help clarifying and setting goals, learn more about how Elona can help you by visiting practic

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16218&preview=true) Menopause is not merely a personal journey; it also affects your career trajectory. It’s estimated that 25% of women will refuse a promotion due to menopausal symptoms. Find Your Dream Job guest Tatiana Graham says these symptoms can last for 7-10 years and impact the way you show up in interviews. She suggests finding strategies that address your new stage of life, such as taking more notes, writing down your questions, and depending more heavily on your support system. Tatiana also suggests being honest with potential employers about your menopausal journey and understanding the value you bring to a company.  About Our Guest: Tatiana Graham is a certified leadership and transformational coach. Resources in This Episode: Schedule your FREE coaching session with Tatiana by visiting ⁠https://calendly.com/tatianagrahamcoaching/coaching-sessio⁠n.  ⁠Connect with Tatiana⁠ on LinkedIn. Use prom

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16201&preview=true)  Finding a new job can be an exhausting process, but it doesn’t have to be. Find Your Dream Job guest Jeremy Cline says there are some simple ways to streamline the process to make it more enjoyable, as well as more efficient. Jeremy suggests setting up templates, creating a set of standard operating procedures for your search, and batching tasks that need to be done. Jeremy also encourages the use of AI technology, such as using ChatGPT to update and tailor application materials.  About Our Guest: Jeremy Cline is a career, business, and executive coach who helps you understand your unique talents and values so you can accomplish more. Jeremy also hosts the excellent Change Work Life podcast. Resources in This Episode: Tune into the Change Work Life podcast to learn how to make the changes you need to enjoy a better working life.  Connect with Jeremy on LinkedIn. Use promo code DREAMJOB

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16161&preview=true) You need a job and you need it now. So you spend hours staring at a computer screen, stressing over the perfect resume and cover letter, and hitting “quick apply.” But Find Your Dream Job guest Shannon Aniciete says you’re doing yourself and your health a disservice by approaching it this way. Shannon has five tips for managing your wellness while looking for your next position, including organization to relieve stress, celebrating your successes, connecting with others, and doing things that bring you joy.  About Our Guest: Shannon Aniciete is the director of business career services for the School of Business at Portland State University. Her team helps students achieve meaningful career outcomes. Resources in This Episode: Thinking of going back to college? Find out if the School of Business at Portland State University is a good fit for you.  Connect with Shannon on LinkedIn. Use prom

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16158&preview=true)  Most people plan their careers only a few times in life: when graduating college, during a career change, or due to a move. But according to Find Your Dream Job guest Anne Lapour, you should continue to plan your career on a regular basis. Anne says our personal life changes affect our careers, so as we evolve in life, we evolve in our work, as well. Self-reflection can give you clarity on what matters to you, and research will allow you to develop new skills that you can use to plan your next step. Networking is also a crucial piece and can lead to opportunities you might not have known about otherwise.  About Our Guest: Anne Lapour is the executive director of career initiatives for Willamette University, where she oversees career programming, education, and advising. Resources in This Episode: Connect with Anne on LinkedIn. Use promo code DREAMJOB at the link below to get an excl

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16155&preview=true)  Whether you’ve been away from the workforce for a few months or a few years, it can feel challenging to find your way back. But you can relaunch with confidence, says Find Your Dream Job guest Heather Black. Heather states it isn’t uncommon to have times away from working a job, and being unemployed is a great time to level up your skillset. Before you apply for a new position, consider what you can bring to the table. Heather suggests learning about various options and deciding which skills you have that would apply to those positions. Volunteering is a great way to experience new places and cultures, and can help you decide which field to explore further, as well as give you the needed experience.  About Our Guest: Heather Black is the founder and CEO of Supermums.  Resources in This Episode: Visit supermums.org to explore career options and see what opportunities are available for you. 

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16129&preview=true)  If relocation is in your future, the time to look for a new job is now. Don’t wait until after the move, says Find Your Dream Job guest Kimi Schiefer. Kimi suggests adding in your upcoming move when filling out your current location on application materials. And while it’s fine to be open to different opportunities, your communication with a hiring manager should stress how much you want the job they’re hiring for. Kimi also recommends using LinkedIn to connect with people in the new city before you move. Having a network in place will be helpful as you navigate a job search in a new location. About Our Guest: Kimi Schiefer is a human resources generalist at the Bonneville Environmental Foundation. Resources in This Episode: Learn more about how Bonneville Environmental Foundation is having an impact on the world of conservation.  Connect with Kimi on LinkedIn. Use promo code DREAMJOB

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16132&preview=true)  On May 15, we hosted our second quarterly event of 2025 in partnership with the University of Portland’s School of Business. More than 110 attendees gathered for networking and a panel discussion, “How to Get a Marketing Job in Today’s Uncertain Economy: Why Analytics Gives You an Edge. Together, the panelists brought expertise from across academia, corporate marketing, and entrepreneurship, offering advice on how to navigate today’s job market as a creative and how to leverage analytics and AI in your work. About Our Guests: Welcome Michael L. DeVaughn, dean of the School of Business, University of Portland Panelists Dr. Ashley Hass, a marketing professor from the University of Portland Kevin Kinghorn, the executive vice president & chief marketing officer of the Portland Trail Blazers Holly Feather, chief executive officer & founder of HHF Strategy Resources in This Epi

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16069&preview=true)  Did you know that when you walk into an interview room, you are in the driver’s seat? If you struggle to know what to say during interviews, Find Your Dream Job guest Tanya Maldonado suggests teaching. You teach the employer who you are, what you have to offer, and how you have impacted previous companies. Tanya also says you should prepare questions for them, to get to know more about the company, and so that your answers can address those issues. Your words matter, so use them carefully, sparingly, and to become a known entity to the employer and no longer a stranger.   About Our Guest: Tanya Maldonado is a career specialist at Portland Community College.  Resources in This Episode: Connect with Tanya on LinkedIn. Use promo code DREAMJOB at the link below to get an exclusive 60% off an annual plan at incogni.com/dreamjob. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoi

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16078&preview=true)  Communication is key when it comes to your job search. On this bonus episode of Find Your Dream Job, Bryce Henshaw shares their tips for building connections with current colleagues and keeping up with former ones. Bryce also stresses the need for commitment in your career. Choose a job you will love, so that you can be committed to a great outcome, for both the employer and yourself. Learn more about Bryce’s career history below in this installment of our Success Stories series.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16043&preview=true)  What do you think an employer wants to hear from you in an interview? If you said, “My background and skills,” you aren’t wrong. But according to Find Your Dream Job guest Charles McGee, it goes much deeper than that. An employer wants quantifiable facts. How did you make a difference at your previous job that can be measured? Charles also suggests not being afraid to share your weak points, but also explain how you’ve grown and overcome them, and what you learned as a result. Lastly, keep your resume concise; less visual clutter is easier for the employer to get through.  About Our Guest: Charles McGee is the director of operations for Workplace Change. Resources in This Episode: The workplace is changing every day; learn how  Charles can help you navigate those changes by visiting www.workplacechanges.com. Connect with Charles on LinkedIn.  Use promo code DREAMJOB at the link below to