Strategies, Stories & Straight Talk
All of my career guidance and content, all in one place
How to Stand Out When 1,000 People Apply
What makes a candidate stand out to a hiring manager? This conversation explores clear communication, thoughtful résumés, intentional job searching, cover letters, and the small decisions that help candidates earn a closer look during the hiring process.
Lauren’s Negotiation Testimonial
Many professionals avoid negotiating because they fear losing the offer. This reflection explores how preparation, market research, and a clear value story can lead to more confident conversations—and stronger compensation outcomes.
Who Authorized This Much Life Experience?
Job hugging—the decision to stay in an unfulfilling role out of fear or uncertainty—is becoming increasingly common in today's market. This reflection explores how professionals can stay prepared, continue growing, and make career decisions from strategy rather than fear.
The Truth about Ghost Jobs
Ghost jobs are real job postings that may not represent active hiring opportunities. This perspective explores why companies post them, how they affect job seekers, and practical ways to identify misleading listings and apply more strategically.
The Networking Mistake Costing Opportunities
Your next opportunity may come from people who already know your work. This conversation explores the power of alumni networks, professional relationships, boomerang careers, and intentional networking to create long-term career opportunities.
gAlumni Gives Back 2026
Networking works best when it starts with community. This perspective highlights how existing relationships—from former colleagues to alumni groups—can lead to meaningful connections, referrals, and unexpected career opportunities.
The Hidden Job Market
Many opportunities exist in the hidden job market—roles filled through networking, referrals, and relationships before they’re publicly posted. This perspective explores how outreach, visibility, and connection can uncover new career opportunities.
Ignoring LinkedIn is Keeping You Invisible
A strong job search requires more than a polished résumé. This conversation explores LinkedIn optimization, personal branding, recruiter search strategies, and how consistent engagement can increase visibility and create new career opportunities.
How to Land the Interview
Landing interviews today takes more than submitting applications. This job search strategy highlights targeted outreach, résumé customization, networking, and smarter application tactics to help candidates stand out in a competitive market.
I’m Getting on My Soapbox Today!
Most people don't wait to make career changes because they don't know what to do—they wait because life feels "fine enough." This reflection explores the tension between knowing what would help and actually taking action before urgency forces the issue.
What AI Means for Your Career
AI is changing the way companies hire, work, and build teams. This conversation explores how professionals can stay competitive by developing adaptability, leveraging AI tools, strengthening their networks, and building skills that technology can't replace.
The Great Shrinking
The “Great Shrinking” reflects a changing workforce shaped by AI, leaner teams, and evolving business models. This perspective explores how adaptability, AI literacy, and continuous learning can help professionals future-proof their careers.
Respectfully, What Is This?
Today’s job market can feel exhausting, with longer hiring cycles and increased competition. This perspective shares practical strategies for building recruiter relationships, networking intentionally, staying organized, and maintaining momentum during a difficult search.
Hidden Signals Interviewers Notice
Strong interview performance is about more than having the right answers. This conversation explores how clear communication, compelling storytelling, confidence, and thoughtful preparation help candidates make a lasting impression throughout the interview process.
Résumé Tips for New Grads
Many early-career professionals struggle to land interviews because their résumé focuses on tasks instead of impact. This guide shares practical strategies for highlighting ownership, accomplishments, and value to create a stronger first impression.
Why Qualified Candidates Still Get Rejected
This conversation with startup leader Donovan Bass explores how company stage influences hiring, résumé strategy, interviewing, and career fit. Learn why aligning your experience with an organization's needs leads to stronger interviews and better long-term career decisions.
Paying for Friends?
You’re not paying for friends—you’re investing in the space that makes real connection possible. This reflection explores how intentional communities create deeper relationships, belonging, and support that lasts far beyond the moment.
Mine Was by Green Day… Yours?
New graduates are entering a challenging job market with little guidance on how to actually land a role. This program helps early-career professionals build confidence, strengthen their résumé, and navigate the job search strategically from day one.
