#189 | How To Turn Job Seeking Into Job Shopping

Searching for a job can feel like a roller coaster. This week, Madeline Mann, the queen of job shopping, joined us to share why “shopping” for a job rather than “seeking” one is the way to go. Madeline pointed out that many of us were told to focus on what makes us special and highlight our best past achievements. Nope! Instead, she suggests we focus on what the company needs and present ourselves as their solution. This makes job shopping way more efficient and focused.

It’s tempting to skip networking if you’re shy or feel awkward reaching out to strangers. But Madeline emphasized it’s not just about networking; it’s about meaningful “netweaving”. Don’t just ask for help—share your experiences and connect with people who understand your journey. Trust me, people love to help others, especially if you’re a student or new to the field!

Finally, we hit on a biggie: handling those tricky job histories. Fired or left on not-so-great terms? Keep it short and sweet. The magic formula? A transparent yet concise explanation with no room for follow-up questions. “I was unfortunately laid off due to budget cuts. Boom, done, move on,” says Madeline. Whether you’re changing industries or just looking for something new, turning job hunting into a strategic shopping experience can make the process not only successful but enjoyable!

Timestamps:

16:49 What Reverse The Search is about

20:38 How to make job searching fun

26:54 Tips for entry level employees

30:02 What to do when you can’t land an interview

32:15 Leaning into the “Underdog Approach”

36:38 How to handle interviews if you’ve been fired

39:30 Advice for parents reentering the workforce

41:30 Tips for steering the conversation in an interview

45:41 Viewing negotiation as a relationship

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