Struggling with updating your UX portfolio? This episode of the Career Strategy Podcast dives deep into UX portfolios and offers practical tips for both seasoned professionals and those switching careers. 

In this episode, you’ll discover the benefits of customizing your portfolio for each job application and why creating a presentation format might be your secret weapon. Sarah shares advice on aligning your projects with job descriptions, maintaining visibility, and dealing with company policies restricting showcasing your work. 

Tune in to get strategies for breaking down large projects and understand the significance of making your work easy to digest for recruiters. 

Whether you're a freelancer or job seeker, learn why making yourself visible on platforms like LinkedIn is crucial. 

Timestamps

00:00 Updating resumes with years of experience challenges.

06:24 Customize your portfolio to match job description.

09:29 Tailor portfolio to recruiters, case study length.

11:21 Consider UX in all career-related materials.

14:33 Portfolio content: Quality over showing every step.

19:38 Increase visibility for job and freelance opportunities.

22:34 Adding work to your portfolio despite restrictions.

25:10 Conceal sensitive info when discussing healthcare projects.

27:34 Enhance portfolio, career coaching for UX professionals.

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Struggling to get responses to your cold emails and messages? This episode of the Career Strategy Podcast dives into practical tips for improving your follow-up game. 

In this episode Sarah explores why people might not reply and how you can increase your chances of a response without being annoying. 

Sarah also breaks down a 5-day follow-up cadence and suggests experimenting with specific days and shares a simple and effective template for your follow-ups, ensuring you stay clear and direct. 

Plus, Sarah shares a handy hack involving TextExpander to make your follow-up process quicker and less stressful.

Tune in to learn why you should stick to one communication channel and avoid bombarding your contacts across multiple platforms.

Timestamps 

01:40 Set expectations, use GAIN framework for replies.

05:55 Limit follow-up to original communication method.

07:07 Create reusable email templates to expedite communication.

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In today’s episode Sarah addresses this question head-on!

Tune in to learn what Career Strategy Lab offers and how the unique group coaching program and community designed for UX, design, and tech professionals helps clients increase their confidence and achieve their career goals.

Sarah also addresses the lack of negative reviews and discusses why some people choose not to publicly share their experiences.

If you’ve ever been skeptical or simply curious, this fully transparent episode provides the clarity you need to get a real sense of what’s inside the Career Strategy Lab.

Quotables

"Whether you are marketing a physical product, a service, or yourself as a candidate, the principles of marketing still stay the same. You still need to do things that help you become more visible as a new business or a new product or a candidate. You need to catch people's attention. You need to make it easy for them to contact you."

"I am the marketing firm. And if you want to learn how to market yourself as a candidate, then career strategy lab is going to help you do that."

Timestamps

00:39 Addressing the Scam Question

00:58 Understanding Career Strategy Lab

02:36 Handling Negative Feedback

05:58 Marketing Insights and Transparency

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Are you stuck trying to wrap up your UX portfolio because your massive project is taking forever to complete?

Today we've got an insightful episode for all the UX designers out there grappling with how to present large projects in your portfolio. 

In this episode, Sarah discusses the strategy of breaking down large projects into smaller, more manageable pieces, making your portfolio not only easier to complete but also more appealing to recruiters and hiring managers. 

Tune in to discover how this approach can streamline your job applications and better showcase your expertise.

Quotables

"It is perfectly fine to break up a very large project into multiple smaller projects for the purposes of your portfolio."

"By taking a larger project and breaking it up into chapters, you can all of a sudden have a portfolio with 3, 4 projects in it."

"What we want is to show the recruiters and hiring managers the evidence, the examples, the receipts."

Timestamps

00:32 Introduction to Career Strategy Podcast

00:38 Handling Large Projects in Your UX Portfolio

01:40 Breaking Down Large Projects into Smaller Sections

04:33 Tailoring Your Portfolio for Job Applications

07:38 Conclusion and Final Tips

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Get ready to transform your approach to feedback! This episode delves into the art of giving and receiving critiques on career materials. 

Career Strategy Lab Coaches Erin Lindstrom, Becca Santilli, and Steph Knox share their extensive experience from reviewing thousands of resumes, portfolios, and LinkedIn profiles.

They discuss the importance of being specific when asking for feedback and how staying mindful of your goals can make the process more effective. 

Learn how different methods, like live sessions and prerecorded critiques, can help boost your confidence and refine your materials. 

Whether you're looking for a new job or aiming for a promotion, this episode will guide you to get the best feedback possible. 

Tune in to discover actionable tips that ensure you get the feedback you need to succeed.

Reflection Questions

1. What strategies do you typically use when asking for feedback on your career materials, and how can you apply Erin, Steph, and Becca's advice to improve your approach?

2. How do you handle receiving conflicting feedback from different sources, and what steps can you take to discern which feedback is most valuable to you as suggested in the podcast?

3. Erin mentioned the importance of building the skill set to improve any career material bullet point in the future. What specific skills or actions can you focus on to enhance this ability in your own career development?

4. Considering Becca's point about the importance of the compass statement in gaining clarity and confidence, how would you articulate your own compass statement, and in what ways might it serve as your North Star in your career journey?

Time Stamps 

00:00 Introduction and Special Guests

00:11 Understanding Feedback in Career Strategy Lab

00:42 Demystifying the Critique Process

01:30 Meet the CSL Coaches

03:17 The Critique Process Explained

04:50 Personal Critiquing Processes

06:07 Importance of Compass Statement

09:45 Live Calls and Community Support

11:36 Tips for Asking Feedback

16:12 Your Next Steps 

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Want to stand out in your job search? In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah breaks down the AIDA framework, a four-part methodology used by top companies to capture your attention and spark action. 

In this episode, you’ll learn how AIDA can be applied to your resume, LinkedIn profile, and even cold emails to potential employers and discover how small changes in how you present your skills and experience can make a big difference in holding a recruiter’s interest and getting that coveted interview.

Whether you’re just starting to update your career materials or deep into your job search, these tips will help you think more strategically and communicate more effectively so you get noticed, book more interviews, and are offered more roles.

Quotables

 "The process of you getting hired is very similar to the process of you going and buying that new pair of shoes or booking that hotel."

 "The goal is that something about your resume catches their attention, and to do that we need to create a resume that makes you stand out from other candidates."

"Be thinking, what am I doing to capture attention, interest, desire so that they take action?"

Timestamps 

00:56 Interest leads to desire, prompting action ultimately.

03:58 Effectively capturing attention and generating action is the goal of your career materials.

09:11 Be mindful of how you’re taking action.

12:05 AIDA has been around for a while, it’s time to apply it to your job search,

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Eager to boost your professional growth but struggling to find the time and right flow for your life? Figuring out how to best use your time is a regular topic inside of Career Strategy Lab as we help clients navigate how to focus on progress over perfection while juggling the realities of life.

In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah shares practical strategies to fit professional development into your life regardless of what your calendar looks like. 

From tips on scheduling dedicated time for growth to managing perfectionism and expectations, you'll learn how to navigate either a jam-packed schedule or, the ample free time a lay-off presents, to invest in yourself. 

Whether you're balancing a full-time job and other commitments or have an open calendar to focus on growth, this episode provides actionable advice catered to your unique situation. 

Get ready to uncover the importance of setting priorities, build a supportive community, and break tasks into manageable sprints to maximize your efforts. 

00:56 Making time for professional development: actionable tips.

03:46 Schedule professional development with focus and energy.

08:22 Commit to intentional, efficient professional development.

11:25 Break tasks, focus on energy, quality work.

13:17 Prioritize tasks, schedule and say no.

17:31 Learn practical tips for professional development journey.

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A few times a year we open the doors to Career Strategy Lab and host an Open House so prospective clients can learn about the program and get to know some of our clients. In this episode, we’re sharing the audio from our last Open House (it’s an imperfect podcast episode but we think the stories are worth sharing!) 

During this episode, you’ll hear from three Career Strategy Lab clients (two Product Designers and a Senior UX Designer) on how to tackle mindset issues like imposter syndrome and procrastination as well as how they improved their communication skills and confidence in CSL.

Tune in to hear how these three women accepted new job opportunities by applying the “Product of You” framework Sarah teaches in Career Strategy Lab.

02:00 Work meeting, questions, introductions, Career Strategy Lab.

05:26 Enhancing communication skills through enrolling in CSL.

09:08 Focused on single case study with significant impact.

13:01 Surrounding with career-focused community creates accountability.

14:22 Embrace promoting yourself to communicate your value.

18:04 Consistency in touch points shapes brand perception.

23:36 Coaching and CSL sessions significantly improved performance.

25:35 Optimize resume for ATS, keep it simple.

30:33 Mindset calls provided support and guidance.

34:45 Program rekindled confidence and passion for work.

37:17 Allie found his flow; advice on sprints.

40:54 Organize sprints for career roadmap and job search.

43:36 Detailed course materials for career development available.

45:51 Weekly sprint check-ins, events, job alerts available.

49:35 3-month CSL course requires dedication.

51:35 Encouraging self-compassion and growth in career.

55:42 Private questions? Use the email or link.

57:44 Thank you for listening to career strategy podcast.

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Navigating a layoff can leave you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and scared. In this episode, Sarah will walk you through how everything from feeling your feelings to updating your career materials.

This episode offers 9 practical things you can to do feel more in control and to save time as you navigate the journey to finding your next role. And, if you're happily employed, these tips can help you prepare just in case you ever face an unexpected layoff.

If you've recently experienced a lay off or spend time wondering what you'd do if you were to be laid off, this episode is for you.

00:00 Allow time to process, evaluate your finances, seek support.

05:37 Update your resume, LinkedIn, then career materials.

08:23 Use LinkedIn's "open to work" setting discretely.

13:42 Personalize messages, be active in communities.

15:26 Posting your vision to leverage visibility.

19:35 Find joy, recharge, and relieve stress.

21:52 The power of helping others.

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Struggling with getting responses to your cold messages? Discover a straightforward approach to crafting communication that's more likely to get you a reply. This episode dives into a four-part structure called the GAIN framework, designed to hone your messages to be concise, clear, and effective. Learn why keeping things short is critical and how specificity in your queries can significantly up your chances of receiving the response you need. Plus, avoid common mistakes like overly long messages or unclear intent that might be sending your emails straight to the ignored pile.

Want more support? Grab our communication swipe files and so much more inside of Career Strategy Lab.

00:00 Be clear, concise, and specific in messaging.

05:45 Use strong anchor when reaching out professionally.

09:18 Efficient email communication framework for networking.

10:32 Use GAIN framework for clearer, impactful messages.

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Unlocking potential in your career can often feel like a maze with no clear exit. This episode takes you inside one of our weekly Q&A calls that we do with our Career Strategy Lab clients. These calls allow our Career Strategy Lab members to come together in real-time to talk through their wins, struggles, and questions. Forget edited scenarios; you’re getting the raw and real questions that our clients grapple with, and the practical advice provided by our expert coaching team.

In this episode of the Career Strategy Lab, you'll hear from individuals in different stages of their UX careers as they tackle challenges like articulating work, determining the ideal number of bullet points for their resume, and curating a UX portfolio with just the right amount of case studies. The discussions delve into whether it's better to stick to a career path closely or to pivot when unique opportunities arise, even if they don't perfectly align with long-term goals.

Have questions? Join us in Career Strategy Lab to get your questions answered and career materials critiqued!

00:00 Tips to improve your "about me" or what we refer to as a Compass Statement

03:39 Suggest 2-3 bullet points, vary by content and context.

08:47 Portfolios vary, no set limit. Tailor to showcase skills. No one-size-fits-all.

10:33 Submit assets after going through the curriculum to match CSL standards, avoid quadruple work for feedback.

16:07 Discussion about decision-making mindset and past experience parallels.

20:22 People are encouraged to share and listen to others' experiences for support.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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How do you know what UX career advice is actually worth listening to? If you're searching for your next UX or Product role, it's likely you've been bombarded with advice from blogs, social posts, and well-meaning strangers in Slack groups.

In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah Doody, a UX Researcher & Product Designer, breaks down how to critically evaluate UX career advice so you can stop spinning in circles and start making real progress in your job search.

This episode is especially for UX, Product Design, and UX Research professionals who are sick of Googling every career question and getting 14 different answers.

Timestamps:

00:00 - 00:45: Intro

00:46 - 02:23: The risk of following UX career advice without vetting the source

02:24 - 04:15: Strategic questions to evaluate the advice you find

04:16 - 06:02: The problem with outdated advice and “LinkedIn experts”

06:03 - 08:17: Why self-doubt makes you trust strangers more than yourself

08:18 - 09:40: How to do a quick “background check” on advice-givers

09:41 - 11:00: A reminder: just because someone posts online doesn’t mean it’s tru

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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In today's special episode, we dive into the raw, unfiltered experiences of alumni from the Career Strategy Lab who have recently secured new roles and transformed their careers. 

Our guests share their personal journeys and the pivotal moments that propelled their career success. From overcoming the fear of posting on LinkedIn to mastering the art of storytelling in portfolios and resumes, this episode highlights the importance of community, mentorship, and structured support. 

Listen as Senior Product Designer at Contact Monkey, Jamie, Global Head of Product Design & Experience at DSI, Duncan, and Product Designer at Zipline Retail, Jaden, discuss how Career Strategy Lab's curated curriculum and 5-sprint program helped them gain confidence, clarity, and authentic self-presentation in interviews.

Whether you're looking to switch careers, enhance your job search strategies, or build a standout portfolio, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-life insights. Stay tuned as we uncover the transformative power of investing in oneself and the invaluable role of a supportive community in achieving career success. 

Timestamps

03:20 Left previous job, struggled, found new role.

09:00 Laid off while pregnant, found new job.

15:39 Mindset shift in job search for designers.

17:16 Emphasizing self-recognition and value in past work.

22:58 Support and connection in overcoming career challenges.

30:37 Owning your story is important in career.

37:04 Impactful case study sprint improved job prospects.

43:33 Choose best option for best results.

46:28 Investing in career advice paid off well.

55:48 Join strategylab.com/applyv2 for info and updates.

58:30 Course is primarily self-paced with weekly Q&A.

01:03:37 Portfolio important for interviews and confidence boost.

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In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, we explore the impact of first impressions on LinkedIn and why complaining on the platform during a job search may not be the best approach. 

Sarah discusses the downside of posting negative content and offers practical tips for job seekers to make a positive first impression. 

Tune in to gain insights into alternative ways to express frustrations and job-related interests on LinkedIn. 

🎁 Get our free e-book, The Career Strategy Roadmap

00:00 LinkedIn users complain about job search treatment.

03:13 Negativity in posts can affect job prospects.

08:49 Engage and share insights for professional growth.

10:23 Share insights on LinkedIn for positive impression.

13:55 Spots available now, advance your career! 

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👉 Get your free UX Career Roadmap

Navigating the job market can feel like a maze. In this episode, Cheryl Platz, a seasoned UX professional, lays out a map for job seekers to present themselves effectively.

Cheryl shares with Sarah her own job search experiences, sharing insights on how to adapt to feedback and connect with interviewers. She stresses the importance of engagement on platforms like LinkedIn, and how sharing genuine content can open unexpected doors in your career. Additionally, this episode delves into the process of evaluating portfolios, the critical skill of storytelling in interviews, and strategies for career transitions. Hear personal anecdotes on maximizing LinkedIn and tips for your first day and the first 90 days in a new role.

Whether you're starting, switching, or advancing your career, this discussion provides practical advice for making the right moves on your professional journey.

05:33 Post-9/11 economy disrupts computer science career.

07:53 Diverse skills: production, writing, UX, game design.

11:30 Transition from Gates Foundation to Riot leadership.

14:40 Focus on strengths, strategize for interview success.

17:23 Incorporating gaming experience into professional interviews.

20:32 Engage with community, share work, mentor.

23:29 LinkedIn as a career tool; use wisely.

28:46 Flipping hiring practices, vetting applicants for interviews.

30:40 Prioritizing criteria and quality in portfolio evaluations.

34:20 Specific criteria for job search impact assessment.

36:31 Celebrating wins and saving companies money is important.

40:38 UX designers must design for others, not themselves.

44:29 Presentation foreshadows potential client meeting behavior.

47:39 Evaluating skills, problem definition, and case studies.

51:15 Start by learning, absorb, set goals, learn rhythm.

54:24 Quick social media post leads to resolution.

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You are the leader of your career.

In this episode of The Career Strategy Podcast, Erin Lindstrom, a seasoned CEO and CSL coach, reveals the strategies for becoming the leader of your own career.

Diving into the idea that waiting for motivation is a trap, she stresses the importance of creating routines and structures tailored to your personal life. Erin challenges listeners to rethink their approach by stepping into the CEO role of "The Product of You." It's not just about job performance; it's about shaping a career that truly fits the life you aspire to have. 

Listeners will learn to take command of their career journey by knowing their worth, making strategic decisions like a CEO, and managing their internal team of one with confidence. The discussion also tackles imposter syndrome by calling for a balance of humility and assurance. Erin demystifies the concept of motivation, showing how action breeds the drive to succeed, and underscores the power of self-recognition in your professional progress.

Whether you're navigating uncertainty, wrestling with self-doubt, or simply looking to refine your career strategy, this episode offers practical tips and relatable advice to guide you forward. Tune in for a realistic roadmap to cultivating the mindset you need to design, market, and propel your career—and ultimately, yourself—towards your goals.

00:00 Crafting, marketing, and selling yourself for success.

03:32 Discussion about career development, CEO roles, and support.

09:57 Strategies for self-managing work and decisions.

13:17 Recognize and manage internal and external roles.

14:40 Struggling with progress, seeking recognition and validation.

19:58 Embracing confidence leads to humble self-assurance.

21:27 Boost confidence by owning gifts boldly, acknowledge achievements.

26:22 Reflect on past experiences, consider current capacity.

30:38 Take action to start the motivation cycle.

31:50 Track effort, progress to boost motivation cycle.

35:05 Effective communication through asking and answering questions.

40:04 Navigating self-doubt and growth in career.

41:43 Professional outcomes, powerful storytelling, identity formation, human experience.

46:06 Likability and openness matter in professional interactions.

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In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah delves into the intriguing concept of career compound interest. She draws parallels between smart financial decisions and strategic career moves, emphasizing how small investments in your career today can yield significant results over time.

Sarah discusses three key areas for creating a compound interest effect in your career: investing early, negotiating wisely, and building authentic relationships before they are needed. She offers actionable advice and real-world examples, highlighting the importance of proactive career management.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into unlocking exponential success in your professional journey.

00:00 Early investment in time and career important.

03:35 Update LinkedIn profile before starting job search.

07:08 Negotiating is crucial for long-term salary.

10:58 Build authentic, small professional network early.

14:20 Negotiate wisely, network for success, career roadmap.

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In today's episode, CSL Coach, Erin Lindstrom, takes over the podcast to dive into the common mindset challenges that arise when professionals start working on their portfolios. Erin discusses the emotional and psychological barriers that can make the process feel overwhelming, and she provides practical guidance on how to move through these challenges. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, a structured process, and being part of a supportive community.

Erin's insights shed light on the deeper, emotional side of portfolio creation, offering valuable advice for anyone navigating their career advancement. So, grab a cup of coffee and join us as we explore how to overcome portfolio mindset hurdles and take charge of your career growth.

00:00 Framework benefits all career stages, freelance leverage.

03:42 Erin Lindstrom discusses challenges in creating portfolios.

07:07 Avoiding grief from toxic work experiences.

12:49 Clarity in design leads to marketing success.

16:09 Community support boosts motivation and success.

18:27 Email for help, focus on portfolio storytelling.

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In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah shares actionable advice on how to stand out in your career by applying a sales strategy to your portfolio. By understanding the difference between features and benefits, you'll learn how to make a lasting impression through your portfolio, resume, or LinkedIn profile. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to level up their career and leave a lasting impact in the professional world. So grab your headphones and get ready to unlock the secrets to making your career stand out!

00:00 Opportunity to enhance UX portfolio in 3 weeks.

05:23 Companies should focus on benefits, not features.

09:00 Summarize your work with its impact and why.

13:12 Focus on benefits to capture people's interest.

14:17 Closing plea for engagement and feedback. Goodbye.

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In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah discusses how sprints can serve professionals regardless of whether they're just starting out or seasoned leaders. She addresses frequently asked questions and invites listeners to enhance their presentation skills and make a meaningful impact in their careers by developing their portfolios. If you're looking to elevate your career and master the art of storytelling through an effective portfolio, this episode is a must-listen.

00:00 UX portfolio sprint benefits all career stages.

04:52 Limited VIP spots available for UX portfolio sprint.

09:09 Revive portfolio sprint for improved job readiness.

10:58 Follow framework for year; FAQs about UX.

17:33 Create a timeless portfolio with effective presentation.

19:04 Enrollment closes on March 22, starts March 25.

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Let’s dive into the hotly debated topic of portfolio formats. In this episode, Sarah provides valuable insights into the strategic considerations that professionals should keep in mind when considering how to put together their UX Portfolio.

Sarah discusses the pros and cons of website portfolios versus presentations and explores crucial factors to consider, such as time, cost, customization, user experience, and accessibility.

This episode is a valuable guide in making informed decisions about your portfolio format. Tune in to gain a fresh perspective on this critical aspect of your career development journey.

00:00 Choose portfolio format strategically for the best reception.

05:34 Portfolio not for learning code, consider costs.

07:58 Customize portfolio to match each job's requirements.

12:07 Use job application portfolio for interview presentation.

16:02 Portfolio on website for job opportunities unlikely.

18:38 Follow Sarah Doody on social media, share.

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✨Reminder → Enrollment's open for our 3-week UX Portfolio Sprint. Doors close on March 22 or when seats are sold out!

In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah explores a crucial aspect of the job search process: attention to detail.

Drawing inspiration from a surprising source—the band Van Halen's infamous "no brown M and M's" contract clause—Sarah highlights the importance of demonstrating attentiveness in the job search. Through anecdotes and examples, she illustrates how failure to pay attention to crucial details can speak volumes to potential employers.

With actionable advice and thought-provoking insights, this episode offers valuable strategies for job seekers to elevate their approach and stand out in a competitive job market. Tune in as Sarah Doody shares valuable lessons on the power of attention to detail in the job search.

Timestamps

01:15 How to stand out in the job search

03:24 Testing attention to detail with Brown M and M's.

05:35 Secret words in instructions

06:09 Attention to detail is crucial in job search.

08:41 Thanks for listening, see you next time!

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Reminder → Enrollment's open for our 3-week UX Portfolio Sprint. Doors close on March 22 or when seats are sold out!

Feeling worried about explaining career breaks in your resume? You're not alone. In this episode, we debunk the myth that work history gaps are a red flag to hiring managers.

With insights from LinkedIn's research, we show how normalizing these breaks is increasingly accepted.

In this episode:

➡️ Discover how LinkedIn's career break feature can help you openly represent time off and translate the skills gained during your break to potential employers.

➡️ Learn why embracing your career journey, from caregiving to dealing with pandemic waves, is an asset.

➡️ Dive into why it's crucial to align with companies that value your experiences, and how to spot these opportunities.

Ready to reframe your perspective and feel empowered about career breaks? Then this episode is for you.

Share it with someone who might be worried about their breaks too!

00:00 Gaps in resume are not a red flag.

05:10 Value career breaks, don't hide them.

07:07 Pandemic normalized career breaks, shift mindset, share.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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Are you doing enough to stay ahead in your career? 

In this episode Sarah discusses why you should always be applying, even if you're happy with your job. 

You’ll learn the two main scenarios where this practice can make a difference and why it's important to apply for jobs right up until you start a new role.

Even if you’re comfortably employed, Sarah also shares the benefits of keeping your resume, LinkedIn profile, and interview skills sharp.

Tune in for actionable advice on how to take charge of your career and always be prepared for whatever comes next.

Quotables

“If you're in a job and you really have no plans on leaving, I think it's a very healthy exercise to explore other roles at different companies from time to time."

"It's not until you look outside of the confines of your current job that you realize: wait a sec, I really like the structure of this company's teams or these benefits or their salary or their job title or who knows what."

Timestamps

00:32 Always apply for job opportunities to grow.

04:45 Applying while employed helps gauge worth, reduces anxiety.

08:06 Use job search tools, set up alerts. Apply.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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Reminder → Enrollment's open for our 3-week UX Portfolio Sprint. Doors close on March 22 or when seats are sold out!

Welcome to episode 55 of the Career Strategy Podcast which is a compilation of Sarah’s Job Search Series!

Navigating a job search can feel like a lonely journey, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, we unpack practical strategies to refine your job hunt and stand out to employers. We start by exploring the importance of defining your "career value criteria" (CVC)—a personal checklist beyond job title and salary that includes factors like company culture and growth opportunities. Get insight on making intentional choices, tapping into your community for better job leads, and why quality trumps quantity in your applications.

Facing rejection? In this episode you’ll earn how to turn setbacks into growth and recognize when to tweak your approach. Instead of sending out masses of resumes, find out how targeted communication with key people can open doors that job boards can't. And when it comes to interviews, we discuss how presenting your past projects effectively can make all the difference.

Let’s dig in to how creating genuine connections within companies is crucial, not just for the job at hand, but for your career trajectory. If you're feeling bogged down by the job search process, this episode offers fresh perspectives and actionable advice to keep you grounded and moving forward.

00:00 Define career value criteria to guide job search.

09:28 Consider company culture, growth opportunities, and travel.

10:55 Define career value criteria to streamline job search.

20:00 Strategic, clear, concise, and friendly cold emailing.

23:52 Leverage LinkedIn for networking and job opportunities.

30:42 Focus on impactful activities, build relationships, customize.

34:33 Pause, review career materials, focus on quality.

40:36 Companies use social media to attract talent.

48:04 Ensure your application materials create strong first impression.

50:40 Reflect on what's working, focus on improvement.

01:01:08 Find community support to navigate career challenges.

01:02:52 Reflect on job search, grow beyond rejection.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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Today's episode of The Career Strategy Podcast delves into the topic of ghosting in the job search, shedding light on why it happens and how to cope with it.

In this episode, Sarah shares a story from a restaurant manager's perspective, emphasizing that ghosting isn't a one-sided issue and is often not intentional.

This episode offers practical advice, encouraging listeners not to take ghosting personally, and to take proactive steps to gather context and follow up with potential employers.

00:00 Dealing with ghosting in the job search.

03:49 Ghosting may not always be intentional in hiring.

07:54 Follow up for information, keep it concise.

12:34 Control negative thoughts, focus on what's manageable.

13:45 Reframing ghosting in the job search.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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To follow up or not follow up after a UX job interview? Most people send a cookie cutter “thank you” and hope for the best. But in today’s competitive UX and Product job market, that’s not enough.

Your job interview follow-up message isn’t just a formality, it’s an opportunity to stand out from the sea of other candidates who disappear after the call.

A thoughtful UX job interview follow-up email can keep you top of mind, reinforce your value, and even spark a second conversation that moves you closer to an offer.

In this episode, Sarah Doody, shares a simple, strategic way to follow up after UX job interviews that doesn’t feel forced or generic, and takes less than 5 minutes to do.

Topics discussed in this episode:

- Why visibility after a UX job interview is just as important as before

- What most people get wrong about thank-you notes

- How to avoid sounding generic (or like ChatGPT wrote it for you)

- A powerful way to personalize your follow-up

- How to “extend the life” of the job interview

- What to listen for during the job interview to use later

- Why follow-up emails can lead to asynchronous conversations

- A 2-minute post job-interview habit to set yourself up for success

Key Timestamps:

00:00 - 00:45: Intro

00:46 - 02:10: Why visibility doesn’t stop after the job interview

02:11 - 03:40: Why generic job interview follow-up messages don’t work

03:41 - 05:00: A better way to follow up (with real examples)

05:01 - 06:10: Post job interview habits that boost your follow-up game

06:11 - 07:15: How this applies to your UX job search and beyond

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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Feeling stuck in your career or job search? Overwhelmed by the unknowns? This episode of The Career Strategy Podcast offers a practical tip to help you regain control and make intentional decisions.

By focusing on what you can control rather than fixating on outside factors, you can move forward with clearer direction. Learn how to strategically apply to jobs, improve the quality of your application materials, and leverage your network for a competitive edge. Take charge of your attitude and choose who to listen to, minimizing information overload.

00:40 Tips to make clearer, intentional decisions in career.

04:31 Focus on what's within your control.

10:34 Balance information gathering with taking actionable steps.

11:51 Share and discuss to help get unstuck.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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Get ready to take control of your career with a 15-minute annual review! This episode is designed to help you reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead. The questions shared in the episode will guide you through a simple yet impactful review of your accomplishments and aspirations.

Sarah suggests sharing this exercise with a friend for accountability and fresh perspectives. By focusing on what you did last year, what went well, what to stop and start doing, and the conclusions you reached, you'll gain clarity on your short and long-term goals.

Click here to get Sarah’s annual review workshop for just $29!

The episode also offers a valuable resource to dive deeper into the annual review process, providing practical tools for strategic career and life planning. Whether you're seeking career growth, work-life balance, or simply a clearer focus, this episode will equip you with actionable steps to steer your career in the right direction.

Tune in to kickstart a mindful and intentional year ahead!

02:02 The 5 review questions to ask yourself this year

03:07 Reflect on past year experiences, assign emojis.

08:16 Identify valuable conclusions, visualize 2025, align decisions.

10:29 Reflect on past year to improve 2025.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, guest host Erin Lindstrom takes over to tackle the topic of imposter syndrome.

Erin delves into the origins of imposter syndrome and acknowledges the societal constructs that have contributed to its prevalence, particularly for women and people of color. Erin provides insights into overcoming imposter syndrome from a mindset perspective and highlights the importance of building humble confidence to navigate career challenges. She offers practical advice for individuals at different career stages, such as climbers, switchers, and launchers, and emphasizes the significance of collaborative action and leveraging personal experiences.

Erin invites listeners to reflect on their own confidence spectrum and challenges them to explore the boundaries of humble confidence. A message of empowerment and personal growth resonates throughout the episode, providing valuable takeaways for individuals seeking to overcome imposter syndrome in their careers.

00:00 Addressing systemic barriers to leadership, overcoming doubt.

05:19 Overcoming imposter syndrome and self doubt.

09:02 Approach with humble confidence for success.

10:51 Coping mechanisms and building humble confidence.

14:18 Free masterclass on CEO mindset shifts.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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This episode origninally aired on the Ironhacks Podcast! Check out Ironhack's awesome resources here!

In this episode, we discuss building a robust UX portfolio, mastering personal growth, and overcoming imposter syndrome in the tech industry. Join us as we explore the power of positive thinking and the significance of planning your career roadmap. 

Don't miss our expert insights into the evolving digital landscape and the impact of human connections in today's virtual world.

0:00 Sarah Doody lives in Salt Lake City, Utah.

05:08 Workshop and portfolio for experienced UX professionals.

09:40 Imposter syndrome in different career transitions.

12:45 Discussion about a book on neuroscience concepts.

13:46 Positive thought is powerful but requires effort.

19:27 Important decision-making requires thoughtful contemplation despite busyness.

23:39 Self-reflection on growth and learning opportunities.

25:28 Career Strategy Lab: Career as a product.

29:25 Boot camp feels like yesterday, time flies.

31:45 Interview process remains consistent, adapt to remote.

35:09 Spoke at the Front Conference in Zurich.

38:01 Community involvement can give false sense of progress.

41:38 Being vocal in communities, extroverted vs. introverted.

45:03 Social media's impact on career strategies.

49:45 Focus on fixing company hiring and UX.

53:40 Advocate for mindset and enforcing it.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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This episode originally aired on the Honest UX Talks Podcast.

🗂 instagram.com/honest_ux_talks

This conversation ranges from learning how to position oneself strategically in the competitive job landscape to the art of finessing career materials such as resumes and portfolios.

Sarah shares innovative strategies for treating your job hunt as you would a UX project, emphasizing tailored applications, meaningful networking, and the human touch in technology-driven processes. With real-world examples and actionable advice, Sarah addresses common pitfalls and how to craft your narrative beyond checkbox portfolios.

Whether you're an aspiring designer eager to break into the industry or a seasoned pro looking to pivot your approach to job applications, today's conversation promises to arm you with the tools you need for success.

Tune in as we dissect the fundamentals of creating standout UX portfolios, crafting personalized cover letters, and navigating hiring practices that truly resonate with employers in diverse industries and geography.

01:01 Accidental journey into UX careers, coaching, portfolio.

05:33 Companies hired more despite pandemic; user experience.

09:17 Post-program challenges: job search, self-marketing, competition.

13:15 Focused on career education and personal branding.

17:29 Candidates should consider opportunities beyond fang companies.

21:19 Understanding and empathy for companies in hiring.

24:39 User research portfolio: demonstrate, not just state.

27:56 Portfolio doesn't need every UX process tick.

29:10 Boot camp presentations aren't suitable for portfolios.

32:18 Apply to fewer jobs with more care.

35:21 Customize cover letter, resume, and portfolio strategically.

39:06 Personalize experiences, prioritize people over platforms.

43:03 Effective communication: question, connection, and relevance.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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This show was originally aired on the NN/g UX Podcast  hosted and produced by Therese Festenden.

In this episode we dived into the heart of what makes a truly rewarding career – it's not the flashy title or the next paycheck, but the fulfillment you get from the impact you create and the skills you bring to the table.

Therese and I talked about curating a portfolio that reflects real-world problem-solving, not just textbook processes, and the value of strategic thinking for career advancement.

If you're chasing job satisfaction and meaningful projects in your UX journey, tap into your inner problem spotter and embrace every opportunity to learn and adapt. Remember, it's about making your role work for you, building a career that resonates with your passion, and planning ahead.

Learn more about NN/g here: nngroup.com

047: Crafting a Fulfilling UX Career Beyond Titles and Salaries

00:50 Sarah is self-taught in information architecture, focused on research.

03:46 Multiple self-administered titles, significant impact on career.

09:21 Transitioning careers requires self-education and confidence.

10:55 Acknowledging undervalued experiences in transitioning professionals.

14:06 Reassess goals and expectations when seeking UX work.

20:02 Encouraging individual research and skill development.

22:51 Regret over past portfolio choices, advice valuable.

23:56 Portfolio must reflect perfect UX process requirement.

27:26 Prioritizing efforts based on experience and need.

32:47 Focus on fulfillment beyond title and salary.

34:34 Reflect on key experiences to reach goals.

36:29 Embrace strengths, find gaps, present solutions diplomatically.

42:23 Fulfillment comes from meaningful work and impact.

45:14 Listen to podcast, follow Sarah on socials. Share.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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This week’s episode is an interview with product designer and Career Strategy Lab alumni, Melody.

The job search can be a whirlwind of ups and downs. Melody shares how she kept a level head and used what she learned in our career coaching program to land a job with a company she had already applied to and been rejected from!

Listen to hear the real experiences, obstacles, and victories of a CSL Alumni!

00:38 A quick intro with Erin

02:21 Let’s meet Melody!

04:28 Interaction design is the future of design

08:31 The CSL crossover of art and business

11:15 The frustrating job search before joining CSL

15:07 Well made career materials can carry you a long way

19:43 The job search roller coaster

23:12 Keep applying, it can work out!

26:36 Melody’s tips for keeping a healthy mindset!

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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In today's episode, Sarah addresses a crucial mindset shift for your job search: how your ability to communicate can be more important than your qualifications. 

Often times professionals hyperfocus on their credentials but struggle to convey their value effectively.

Sarah explores common pitfalls in resumes and interviews, and actionable tips on improving your communication to boost your job search success.

Quotables

"Your qualifications don't matter unless you can communicate them, right?"

"If you're applying to jobs and not getting interviews it's more than likely a communication problem not a qualification problem."

Timestamps

00:15 Resume should have a clear elevator pitch.

03:15 Effective resume tips.

04:10 Self-audits and communication improvement on resumes and job search.

06:57 Aligned messaging during your job search.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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In this "Open House" episode, we're joined by Career Strategy Lab alumni, Laura, Malavika , and Carlos, who each have their unique stories of transformation and success to share with you.

Laura, a product designer at Cisco in Miami, shares her journey through the lab and the remarkable turnaround from nearly 60 job applications to landing interviews and a coveted job offer. Carlos talks about his career aspirations, the battle with rejection, and the momentous shift he accomplished with the help of CSL, now finding his groove at Covenant Eyes. And Malavika, whose persistence and newfound confidence through CSL led her to stand out among over 800 applicants to join Health Equity as a senior UX designer.

We discuss the value of experience, the importance of maintaining consistency, and the courage to confidently wait for the right job opportunity.

05:32 Deciding to switch jobs, facing role mismatches.

08:02 Job search frustration transformed by mentor program.

11:39 Gained confidence, stood out in designer career.

13:05 Rejection letter led to self-confidence and clarity.

19:03 Contract to full-time transition at Cisco.

22:58 Structured, relevant case study impressed interviewers.

24:55 Preparing to document for future case studies.

29:40 Fear of not landing job or mentorship.

30:57 Facing hesitation but achieved good investment outcomes.

36:19 Challenges for career switchers in framing experience.

39:57 Excitement for career strategy lab and alumni feedback.

42:53 Hiring doesn't slow down during holidays. Be ready to apply for jobs at any time.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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This week’s episode is hosted by CSL Coach Erin Lindstrom with special guest, Malavika Oak, a CSL Alumni!

Tune in to hear what led Malavika to UX and her career journey from working at startups, getting laid off, and with the help of Career Strategy Lab, landing a new role that she describes as a “dream job.”

00:38 Intro with Erin

01:55 Meet Malavika

04:51 Looking for mentorship in the UX world

07:26 Being the only designer at a startup

11:25 Her new role

14:29 Slowly getting better and better at interviews

17:03 Tips for parents and other who are juggling multiple responsibilities

19:25 But why UX?

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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Are you using LinkedIn correctly?

It’s a social media platform, so be social! 

This week Sarah talks about how making connections using LinkedIn can not only improve your visibility on recruiter searches AND help you find job openings faster.

01:09 The one thing many professionals forget to do when looking for work

02:08 LinkedIn Recruiter and the algorithm

03:35 You should be posting on your LinkedIn profile

05:25 It’s all about increasing visibility

07:12 Putting your skills and experience on display

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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Everyone says that recruiters spend barely any time on resumes, but is that true?

This week Sarah shares her tips to keep recruiters engaged so they never spend less than a minute on your resume.

After this, be sure to listen to Episode 29 to learn more about the one page resume and how it could be selling you short!

00:19 Spoiler Alert: It’s a myth!

01:07 Put yourself into the shoes of a recruiter

02:52 Consider the design of your resume

05:45 Instead of a list of responsibilities, go into detail, give examples

07:02 What is your conclusion? Myth or No?

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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If you’re considering a career in UX but not sure how you can leverage your previous experience to help you stand out as a candidate we want you to know it’s absolutely possible.

In this episode, Sarah talks through how to build a bridge from your current situation to a UX career.

0:55 You may be tempted to apply to lots of jobs
1:24 You might be competing for jobs with people with more UX experience than you

1:49 Here’s how to start thinking strategically about this

2:35 When you do this, your experience gives you a competitive advantage

4:17 You’re not destined to stay in that industry forever if you don’t want to

4:59 Think of it as a stepping stone

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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How do you know what UX career advice is actually worth listening to? If you're searching for your next UX or Product role, it's likely you've been bombarded with advice from blogs, social posts, and well-meaning strangers in Slack groups.

In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah Doody, a UX Researcher & Product Designer, breaks down how to critically evaluate UX career advice so you can stop spinning in circles and start making real progress in your job search.

This episode is especially for UX, Product Design, and UX Research professionals who are sick of Googling every career question and getting 14 different answers.

Topics discussed in this episode

- Why blindly following career advice can cost you time and traction

- Strategic questions to ask before trusting someone’s advice

- What “advice credibility” really looks like (and red flags to watch for)

- How to assess if someone’s results are relevant to your goals

- Why advice from 10 years ago may not apply to today’s job market

- How hiring location, role, and level affect the advice that works

- The sneaky habit of doubting yourself and trusting strangers instead

- A simple due diligence process that can save you weeks of rework

⏰ Timestamps:

00:00 - 00:45: Intro

00:46 - 02:23: The risk of following advice without vetting the source

02:24 - 04:15: Strategic questions to evaluate the advice you find

04:16 - 06:02: The problem with outdated advice and “LinkedIn experts”

06:03 - 08:17: Why self-doubt makes you trust strangers more than yourself

08:18 - 09:40: How to do a quick “background check” on advice-givers

09:41 - 11:00: A reminder: just because someone posts online doesn’t mean it’s true

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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This week’s episode is a Q&A session with Sarah!

Tune in to hear how to start your job search when you’re brand new to UX, looking for opportunities to grow from within your company, and the importance of your portfolio!

01:16 If you’re early in your career, of course you want to apply to everything!

03:01 How do you approach finding your first job?

06:46 Make the most of performance reviews

08:54 Spell. Check. Your. Resume.

10:20 Curate your resume to each job you apply to

12:10 The best way to approach cold emailing? Warm things up!

17:37 How important is a portfolio at the start of your career? Very important.

20:48 Never worked in UX? You still have skills you can use to apply to UX positions.

22:32 How do I use classified work to promote my skills?

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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Why aren’t you making the progress you’d like to in your career?

🤔 Maybe, just maybe, you’ve fallen victim to one of the biggest sources of procrastination in the job search?

This week, Sarah discusses how sometimes it’s best to stop looking for more info and advice, and just act! If you want to make TRUE progress in your job search, listen in!

Also, check out flowapp.info to help keep yourself on track!

01:14 At some point you need to stop seeking information and start taking action

02:04 More information often leads to contradicting information

02:42 Be careful of a false sense of progress, or FSP for short!

04:35 Get into the habit of notice when you’re procrastinating taking action

05:36 At the end of your day, take the time to make a plan of action for tomorrow

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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Let’s be real, taking the next step in your career can be exhausting.

The process of getting clear on what you want, finding aligned roles, tweaking your career materials, making connections and so on is filled with highs and lows.

It’s not uncommon for each rejection or a lack of response to send you into a spin BUT, there are things you can do to manage your emotions, stay regulated, and continue down the path while taking space for the big feelings coming up.

In this episode, Sarah dives into the world of feelings to discuss how to manage yours to avoid being TOO negative and/or overly confident.

00:52 Managing your emotions is important for so many reasons

01:58 We need to acknowledge our emotions or they may get in the way!

03:36 What if you’re not in the right state of mind when a big opportunity presents itself?

04:49 You need an emotional outlet

06:06 Rejection shouldn’t define you as a person OR a professional

09:23 Try to accept bad news from potential employers with an air of grace

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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Yes or no?! 🤔

Everyone wants to know whether or not it’s recommended to put projects that didn’t launch in their portfolio and if it’s worth talking about during interviews.

Here’s the quick version; when creating your portfolio and resume, use every amazing example of your skills you can.

Why would you avoid using a project that didn’t go public? If you did the work, then show it off! Launching isn’t the only part of the story.

Tune in to episode 36  to learn more about how to talk about your unlaunched projects with power.

00:58 The short answer, yes!

02:00 Stop thinking about why you can’t, and start thinking why wouldn’t you?

04:35 Projects don’t launch ALL THE TIME.

04:58 Be professional. Don’t use an interview to complain about the failed launch.

05:40 A quick recap

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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In today’s episode, Sarah shares how to include numbers on your resume, even if you think you don't have any. 

Many people believe that only monumental achievements, like saving or making a million dollars, are worthy of metrics on a resume. But that's far from the truth! 

This episode will walk you through a simple mindset shift from focusing on outcomes to showcasing your processes. 

Sarah explores practical examples for various roles like user researchers and designers, illustrating how to quantify your work and make your resume stand out. 

Ready to boost your career strategy and grab that dream job? Tune in.

Quotables

“When it comes to job applications, change your focus from outcomes to processes."

"Many designers say, for example, I created a design system. Well, great! But let's highlight the scope by telling people more about that design system."

Timestamps

00:53 Elevate your resume with relevant metrics.

01:39 Examples of process metrics for different roles.

04:34 Including numbers enhances the power of resumes.

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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During this Q+A, Sarah discusses what your portfolio should look like when you leave a UX bootcamp, how many case studies should you present in an interview, the myth of the one page resume, and so much more!

01:14 The portfolio you created in a bootcamp won’t work with recruiters

05:29 You can’t predict how long you’ll have in an interview, so why not ask?

06:55 Keep your resume chronological

08:40 Employers want experience, they want receipts!

11:32 Work done for confidential clients may still be useful for your portfolio

12:41 The one page resume is the biggest lie ever told

14:52 Setting yourself up for a future job search

18:08 If you want to hear about new jobs, you have to be where the jobs are! LinkedIn

18:55 A bootcamp is not a ticket to a guaranteed job

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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You’ve done all the hard work of searching for a position, crafting your materials, interviewing, and you received a job offer!
But then, the unthinkable happens ... the job offer is rescinded or withdrawn 😱 This is a sucky situation to be in and this week Sarah dedicates an entire episode to help you move through it.

01:12 You aren’t the only one this has happened to.

01:53 Ask the company if they have any other open positions you may be a fit for

03:02 Remember, you made it this far. You’re doing something right!

04:24 It couldn’t hurt to see if your old position is open.

06:06 Have a job search strategy that you work year round

07:57 If you optimize your LinkedIn profile, your job search can happen without you

08:50 A quick recap

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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The screening call with HR is often your first opportunity to connect and leave a lasting impact.

Tune into this episode to learn what to expect, how to make a great first impression, and the things to NEVER say during an HR screening interview!

00:55 HR Interviews are where your soft skills can shine

02:39 People will remember stories far more than they're going to remember that you were a fast learner or team player

03:31 Recruiters want to see how you got where you are

05:01 Utilizing the Five Ws of Journalism to answer questions

06:36 Don't start talking about your personal life because it's a distraction from your professional life

08:37 Ask Questions! You know they are going to ask if you have any so make sure you’re ready

11:49 A quick recap

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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This week’s episode is a Q&A session with Sarah!

Tune in to hear the number one thing to do in a saturated job market, how to share case studies that are flagged as confidential, whether or not AI is a threat to UX careers and more!

01:16 Do everything you can to be visible to the companies you're applying to or where you wanna work

06:57 Don’t focus on the quantity of connections, but QUALITY!

11:11 Most people are only scratching the surface of their skills and experience

15:24 AI is not going to replace UX researchers

19:38 How can you use case studies in your portfolio when they’re flagged as confidential?

22:45 Using an educational case study can be tricky

27:56 Be where your potential clients are to stay on their minds

31:41 Relay to the interviewer not just what you’ve done, but the skills you used to do them

💸 See how I help UX & Product people get 5-figure salary increases in my UX job search coaching program

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