Helping job seekers revitalize their networking strategy in Q3 | Conversations > Applications ✌️

I help job seekers unlock $100K+ roles by mastering the story that sells. Conversations ​> Applications // Career Coach // Resume & LinkedIn Writing // Job Search Strategy

I believe you should be able to obtain your career dreams and that’s what I help professionals do. 

My clients have landed roles at Oracle, Deloitte, EY, Tata Consultancy, JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Eaton, Salesforce, KPMG, PWC, Dell, Higher Education or started their own venture 😌

But, landing your dream role doesn’t happen by chance, or with me creating an offer letter for you. My most successful clients know it takes hard work, patience, and perseverance.

The results? Massive career pivots, finding clarity in what you wanted to do, landing your target role in 2 months, and getting 2x your current salary. 

Ultimately, the people I work with feel respected, valued, and paid fairly in their career path.

I am a career coach guiding frustrated mid-career professionals to their target roles by teaching them to have the right conversations with the right people

For brand partnerships or creator collaborations, reach out anytime: dominic@dxconsults.com

Sick of hearing from me?  Scroll 👇🏼  to see what my clients have to say

Who am I and why should you listen to me?

I was an underdog, I never had the perfect GPA, experience, or stories to tell and I still broke into the #1 professional service firm in the world. Before that, I spent time in public accounting, start-ups, and fortune 500 companies.

I sat behind the scenes in HR and watched resumes pile in, held phone screens and reference checks, and interviewed candidates, and rejected candidates (yes, all while utilizing an ATS). 

I’ve seen how treacherous the job searching process can be; automated rejections, ghosting, 14 rounds of interviews, and 250 applications a week. I don’t want you to have to live in the process that every candidate believes to be normal.

Born and raised in Cleveland, I took an unconventional path: four years in Austin, an unexpected detour living in Indonesia, and now a return to Austin where the weather is elite and the tacos are dangerously good.

My time abroad gave me perspective, my time in Cleveland gave me grit, and Austin has given me the space to build a business around helping people do work they love. I still root for the Browns (against all odds), and I’m usually running, creating, or hanging with family and friends when I'm not coaching.

Dominic Imwalle

Sending another application today? Cool.

Just know that hitting 'submit' isn't the win you think.

Here's the thing: applications feel productive.
They're measurable. They're safe.

But they're not moving you forward 👇

STEP 1) Redefine your finish line

- Stop counting applications sent. Start counting conversations had. One real conversation with someone at your target company beats 20 cold applications every single time.

- The goal isn't volume, it's connection.

STEP 2) Pick one person this week

- Find someone doing the work you want to do. Someone who's been where you're trying to go. Reach out with a clear, specific ask. "I'd love 15 minutes to learn how you approached X" works better than "Can I pick your brain?"

- Make it easy for them to say yes.

STEP 3) Show up prepared

- Don't waste their time with questions Google could answer. Come with insight. Share what you've learned about their company, their role, their challenges.

- Ask how they'd approach a problem you're thinking through.

- This isn't an interview, it's a conversation between two professionals.

STEP 4) Follow through

- After the call, send a thank you. Share something useful.

Stay visible. The relationship doesn't end when the Zoom closes.

- People refer candidates they remember, not resumes they forgot.

The application makes you feel busy. 
The conversation makes you memorable.

Leave  the dopamine hit of clicking 'apply' behind. Start building the relationships that actually open doors.

One conversation this week. That's the finish line that matters.

Go find it ✌🏼

Platforms don’t hire you, people do | Creating content to make your search go a level deep than “easy apply” | Career Coach

Get out in the world. 
Go do things you enjoy. 
Go push yourself to tears. 
Go hang around people you love.

The world is waiting for you.

Houston. Thank you 🤝

No alternative text description for this image

I love obsessively preparing for interviews. This week alone, my clients have 8 screening calls lined up.

Here's what changes everything in that first conversation:

Understanding if you're speaking with an operator or a gatekeeper.

Gatekeepers (recruiters, HR, coordinators) manage the process.

Ask them:
- Clear, practical alignment questions
- Role scope and expectations
- Interview flow and timeline

They help you understand if this company will be right.

Operators (hiring managers, embedded team members) own the work.

Ask them:
- Real constraints and tradeoffs
- Execution-focused questions
- What success actually looks like

They help you demonstrate credibility and gather signal.

"Why am I bombing screening calls?"

- You're treating every conversation the same.
- You're missing who holds what information.
- You're asking the wrong questions.

Tailor your questions to who you're speaking with.

One lens. Two approaches.

That's how you win the first chat.

Platforms don’t hire you, people do // Creating content to make your search go a level deep than “easy apply” // Career Coach

Most people think more interviews means they're closer to landing the role.

But I spent 30 minutes with a marketing leader who had 20+ years of experience.

They'd landed 10+ interviews in the last 2 months.

- Recruiters were reaching out constantly.
- Their resume was working.
- Their network was active.

But none of these interviews were converting.

So I told them to do one thing:

You don't need to do more.
You just need to slow down.

If recruiters are calling, your profile and experience are already working.

Now the goal shifts.

Make sure the role works for you.

Use those calls to evaluate, not just impress. Ask questions that guide you closer to what they actually need.

Your job is to be curious.
To see if this is the right place for you.

There will be a moment to pitch.

And you'll know when it comes because of your expertise.

The people getting offers?

They're not just answering questions.
They're asking the right ones.
They're treating interviews like conversations.

Because when you have the experience and the interviews...

The missing piece isn't more activity.

It's more intention and curiosity. 

Conversations > Applications

Platforms don’t hire you, people do // Creating content to make your search go a level deep than “easy apply” // Career Coach // Conversations ​> Applications

If you’ve been in your career for 5, 10, or even 15 years and still get that nervous feeling before sending the first message, you’re definitely not alone.

Friendly reminder: You're not going to get blacklisted for sending a message.

Here's what actually happens:

When you reach out to someone:

1. They ignore it (most common)
2. They respond politely
3. They connect you with someone helpful

That's it. No blacklist. No consequences.
The downside you're imagining doesn't exist.

Of course, spamming 100 people won't help.
But a courteous, specific message? That's normal.

The mindset shift:

Fear-based: "What if I bother them?"

Offense-based: "They're one message away from helping me."

Your work speaks for itself.
And you've built a pretty awesome career.

Send the message and have a Friday 🤝

Some LinkedIn profiles circulate job openings, yet have no connection to the actual hiring team (I honestly love to see it)

I've been suggesting this in all of my coaching sessions recently... take the role/company/title you're going after and hit the LinkedIn search bar but instead of filtering on JOBS filter on POSTS. 

You'll have to sift through junk, but you'll also run into a team hiring posting about a role. Multiple people who sit around it are commenting, liking, and sharing with their network. 

A perfect moment for you to swoop in, drop a comment, a message, and a reason why this role is in your lane 🤝

There’s an overlooked edge to attending local events - most people never discover it.

Like most people, I get nervous or am not sure what to make of getting in-person at an event (especially solo). But immediately after, I'm flushed with excitement or energy about what came out of it.

And... I realized this is happening for the folks I'm working with.

Don't miss out on tapping into the folks around you 🤝

A client reminded me of something I've been doing wrong for years.

We see posts that resonate.

But we scroll past them anyway.
Telling ourselves we'll come back later.

I've lost count of the posts I meant to comment on.

The connections I could've made.
The conversations that never happened.

Here's what I've learned:

- That insight that clicked? Respond immediately.
- That moment of connection? Don't let it pass.
- That person you admire? Tell them today.
- That post you loved? Comment now.

The real cost?
Missing out on relationships.

- How many people never heard your perspective?
- How many conversations died in your drafts folder?
- How many connections slipped through the cracks?

I'm consistently amazed by what happens when I just hit send.

For you, if commenting feels uncomfortable, start small.

It pays to engage with content that moves you.
Pays more to believe people want to hear from you.

Because they do.

The only mistake is convincing yourself otherwise.

Stop saving posts for later.

Start building connections now ✌🏼

Never underestimate getting together with people. 

Whether it's a group of friends, alumni, or the chance to run into someone you haven't met. You won't regret going out into the world.

Texted a few fellas on Wednesday, pulled them over to an event last night, and had a ton of fun catching up. 

S/o St.Edward's University for the awesome Hillhops event, probably one of my favorite events I've seen y'all do for #seualumni

I predict career coaching will grow over the next 10 years as organizations have less and less people who care about the growth of those beneath them. They won't spend the time to develop their people because AI was supposed to replace their job. 

Coaching doesn’t replace managers, it replaces the development that no longer exists.

There will be plenty of networking conversations where it seems like nothing came from them (20+), until the one conversation that changes everything. 

Those 20 get you ready for the ONE. 
Keep finding new people.

I keep seeing incredible companies share they “can’t find good talent.”

Meanwhile, they’re buried under 700 resumes from people who never should’ve applied in the first place. Not because the candidates are bad but because the hiring system rewards volume, not fit (right now).

(S/o people and agencies not reading the job description, knowing the role, or what the company needs in this stage.)

The people who actually win roles?

They don’t play the application game.
They study the business.
They build a point of view.

They reach out like operators, not applicants.

I say this because you can still be different by trusting your gut. You've worked in a field for years, you have a unique perspective, tie it back to the company + what you plan to solve, and work like h*ll to get it in front of someone who cares. 

Companies aren’t ignoring great people.
They just never see them.

I did it this weekend but wanted to do it again with a twist. 

Along with 2 talented professionals, I'm highlighting 2 roles I absolutely love and believe the hiring team did a great job explaining what they need. 

S/o Parq and RevenueCat for putting out solid roles + have a brand I remember in Austin. 

The next home run hire isn't sitting in an ATS. 
They're 1-2 conversations and introductions away.

Right under your nose 🤝

https://lnkd.in/g6Nkz4iM

s/o the note from my mom, hats on, lets get to work. 
s/o Neutonic for keeping me fueled up.

Job search coaches selling guarantees:

- "Follow my 30-day system for guaranteed results"
- "Apply to 100+ jobs and you'll land something fast"
- "Watch these videos and get hired in 45 days"

These promises lead to:

- Burnout from mass applications.
- False expectations about timelines.
- Frustration when reality doesn't match the hype.

I don't sell guarantees. I use data to set real expectations.
(my clients can tell you this is one of the first pieces we cover)

Huntr just released their 2025 job search trends for Q4. 
s/o Sam Wright for keeping me up to date.

Here's what matters:

1) Median Time to First Offer: 83 days

That's roughly 3 months from search start to offer. Don't mess around with this timeline - put people on notice and include your network early.

2) Job Search Timeline: 12 days per interview stage

Never leave an interview without understanding their urgency or process. I don't want you waiting 12 days to hear back (or never at all).

3) Applications Before Offer: The 100+ club exists

But they're going mad in the process or paying someone to spam applications. I'm still slowing down the folks I work with - and it's working.

We don't do 25-application weeks. Nearly 38% of successful job seekers secure a role within their first 30 applications.

The harsh truth:

There are no guarantees in this market.
But you can use the data to show up smarter tomorrow.

If you're tired of chasing false promises in the job hunt, shoot me a message and let's see if we can find the right person to support you. 

(might not be me and there are a ton of great coaches here)

Endlessly scrolling through LinkedIn won’t guarantee you more interview calls.

1 massive misconception I keep seeing  -  thinking hours on the platform = interview invites.

Why it keeps you stuck instead of moving forward:

1) You confuse activity with actual progress
2) You lose consistency chasing perfection
3) You burn out trying to "do more" ("easy apply")

People respond to candidates who:

- Stay top of mind
- Show up regularly
- Build trust through repetition

So if you're exhausted (or feeling behind):

- Let small actions compound over time
- Message 2 - 3 people per session
- Track who you've reached out to
- Set 15 minutes, twice a week
- Focus on quality over quantity

Because your consistency → creates the leverage that sporadic effort never will.

"Do I need to be on LinkedIn all day?"

1) No.
2) It starts with showing up on your terms.

Build your outreach so you can:

1) Create momentum
2) Trust the process
3) Stay visible

If your goal is to land interviews without burning out...

- Play the long game
- Control your schedule
- Shift from hours to habits

People want to hear from you.

Act accordingly 🤝

Here's what I tell people interviewing this week:

"Go have some fun in there."

They invited you for a reason.

Most candidates walk in overthinking:

"What if I mess up? What if they don't like me?"

But that mindset kills your energy.
Instead, remember why you're in that room:

↳ They want to see who you really are.
↳ They believe you can do the work.
↳ They're deciding if you fit the team.

Prepare your questions.
Study who's across the table.
Practice the stories that show your best work.

Then let it fly.

People hire folks who believe in themselves, work hard, and enjoy the process

If you're serious about landing this role, show up as someone they'd want on their team.

Confidence starts with you ✌🏼

I will be your random guy on LinkedIn every single day of the week. 

S/o LinkedIn for giving me a platform.
Blue badge or not, I'll be here rocking 🤝

Founder @ SalesBrand | LinkedIn executive brand and content consultancy | Over half a billion organic LinkedIn views

The LinkedIn Top Voice blue badge summed up in two images.

1. Mel Robbins: world famous author and writer, sold millions of books, has 40 million followers across social media, gets thousands and thousands of engagements per post.

2. Dominic Imwalle: random guy, with a solo consulting business in Texas, gets 20 likes per post

UPDATE 1:

There is a third category. Big LinkedIn-native influencers. I know some of them. Top Voice for them makes sense.

UPDATE 2:

There appears to be a Blue Badge purge going on at LinkedIn right now. People are losing them left and right. So we will see how this all shakes out.

A great leader is not just a good manager - 

It's someone who transforms your entire career trajectory.

If you're 5-15 years into your career and you haven't worked under a leader who:

- Demands a high quality work product
- Requires you to share your story
- Requires you to document your story
- Magnifies where you've won
- Gives you room to grow in losses
- Helps you develop other leaders
- Gives you autonomy to find a project you enjoy
- Teaches you how to navigate compensation

Then I highly recommend working this entire year to find someone like this. 

Note: It could take a few years and still be worth it.

Switched your strategy and it feels harder? That's exactly where you need to be.

You finally have clarity on what to pursue.

You're no longer throwing applications into the void.
You're operating like the professionals who land roles.

But here's where most people quit.

The discomfort:

- Silence from companies you haven't reached.
- Doubt creeping in about the new approach.
- Fewer applications going out each day.
- Pressure to go back to what's familiar.
- Conversations that feel awkward at first.

The reality:

- You're learning skills that outlast this search.
- You're building relationships that compound.
- You're getting closer to the right opportunity.
- You're trying what 95% of people won't do.
- You have more time to do meaningful work.

Why does this work?
Because one strong lane beats scattered effort.

Consistency in a focused direction creates momentum. Depth in relationships opens doors. Commitment to a strategy long enough to see results separates you from everyone else.

Most people switch strategies every week and wonder why nothing sticks.

You don't need more roles to apply to.

You need to stay in your lane long enough to see what happens.

Stick with the discomfort and let the strategy breathe ✌🏼

I work with great people. 
I need to talk about them more. 

I wouldn't welcome someone into my coaching program if I didn't believe they were exceptional at the work they do. 

Going to keep this small and highlight a few folks each week, think of it as your private talent network. 

Sharing more on why you should hire them this morning 👇🏼

https://lnkd.in/g6Nkz4iM

Maureen McCann, Executive Career Strategist 💎

Trusted advisor to six-figure executives navigating role changes. 💎15X award-winning Executive Resume Writer.💎11X Canadian Certified Career & Job Search Strategist. Stop searching, start leading.

Imagine stepping into a role where your expertise is valued, your leadership trusted and your compensation aligned with your worth.

If you’re looking for executive-level guidance to navigate the hiring process in 2026, you’ve come to the right place. 

Get clear. 

Eliminate the chaos of career change.

Find a career that fuels you.

Together, we’ll build a customized career path that accelerates your success. Here’s how:

💡 Develop a comprehensive career strategy

💡 Target and tailor your job search to your location, industry, company and position 

💡 Identify the best strategy for your unique situation 

💡 Analyze your job search strategy to uncover what’s missing

💡 Develop a clear action plan tailored to your goals

💡 Advance your career with actionable steps

WHY WORK WITH ME?
************************
I help six-figure executives land their ideal roles faster, ensuring a seamless transition that saves time and maximizes earning potential. For two decades, I’ve guided thousands of senior executives and authentic leaders through successful career transitions, helping them achieve their goals with clarity and precision. 

About me:

✔ Canadian Career Thought leader and champion of career development
✔ 17 X National Awards of Excellence Winner | International Resume Writer Award Winner
✔ 11X Canadian Certified Career Strategist and Certified Career Development Practitioner (CCDP)
✔ Author and contributor | CareerWise, Career Professionals of Canada, Higher Bracket 
✔ Presenter and Panelist | Cannexus (Canada’s National Career Development Conference)
✔ Facilitator and Instructor | Career Professionals of Canada
✔ Awards of Excellence Judge | Evaluates Canada's Top Executive Resume Writers
✔ Evaluator and Assessor | Certified Resume, Interview, Employment, Worklife and Career Strategists
✔ Featured in Fortune, Forbes, Globe & Mail, Global News, Yahoo Finance, JobScan and Job Boom
✔ Published Career Researcher | "Military to Civilian Career Transition." Canadian Journal of Career Development Volume 16, Issue 2 (p. 24-29)

As a former expatriate, trailing spouse and entrepreneur, I offer diverse experiences and unique insights to help you navigate complex career transitions with confidence.

Ready to elevate your career? Let’s connect to create a strategy for your next executive move.
=====

Curious about what it’s like to work with me? Scroll down to read 50+ glowing recommendations from executives who’ve successfully transformed their careers with my help.

Owner, Executive Career Strategist

Maureen McCann

Before every job application, run the opportunity through these 4 filters.

You’ll make fewer impulsive moves and more intentional ones.

Think of your career as a portfolio of meaningful chapters, not just job titles.

———
Hi, I’m Maureen. 

I guide six-figure executives through career changes.

I take the worry and wonder out of changing jobs at senior levels.

Let’s find time to talk about your career goals and ambitions. 

Reach out and we can get started!

Maureen McCann 🇨🇦

Top Canadian career strategist. Empowers senior executives to secure roles faster. Trusted advisor to leaders navigating high-stakes career transitions. 17X Award-Winning Resume Writer | 11X Certified Canadian Strategist

Ask these questions first.

Are you giving employers what they actually want?

When you're applying online are you 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝗺𝗶𝘁 𝗮 𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻?

It's no guarantee you'll get a response, 

but doing this one thing will significantly improve your response rate.
 

Employers don't have time to 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴 of your resume.

Show them why you're the perfect candidate.

Make it easy for them to hire you.

———
HI, I’m Maureen.

I help executives make smart, confident career moves when the path ahead isn’t obvious. 

For the past two decades, I’ve worked with senior professionals and executives to clarify what they want next, translate their experience into a strong personal brand and navigate job changes strategically, not reactively.

How to get responses when applying online

If you’re “open to opportunities,” you’ve already weakened your position. 

When you know what a best-possible role looks like:

scope, 
mandate, 
influence, 
culture, 
compensation

You recognize aligned opportunities faster
and walk away from the wrong ones without second-guessing yourself.

High-performing leaders don’t wait to be “chosen.”

They define what they want.

They position themselves for it.
And they pursue it with intent.

Clarity creates momentum.

Momentum creates opportunity. 

———
Hi, I’m Maureen.

I help executives make smart, confident career moves when the path ahead isn’t obvious. 

For the past two decades, I’ve worked with senior professionals and executives to clarify what they want next, translate their experience into a strong personal brand and navigate job changes strategically, not reactively. 

Let’s connect.

Stop waiting for the perfect job

When something’s wrong with your car, you may ask other drivers how to fix it.
You might even respect their opinion, but they’re not the ones with the tools, diagnostics and experience under the hood.

You also don’t go straight to the manufacturer and ask them to rebuild the engine. They designed the car, yes. They own the brand, absolutely. But when it comes to getting it running smoothly again?

You go to a mechanic.

Someone who works on engines every day. Someone who understands the systems, the moving pieces, the breakdowns and how to get you back on the road.

A career is no different.

Executives often turn to peers, former colleagues and even hiring managers for advice on how to navigate a transition.
Their perspectives can be helpful, but they’re not the ones rebuilding the engine.

Recruiters and hiring managers are the dealerships. They care about the right fit for their organization.

Career professionals are the mechanics. 

We get under the hood with you. 

We troubleshoot, rebuild, align and tune your strategy to run at full power again.

If your career isn’t running on all cylinders right now, you’re not broken you’re just due for the right expert support.

Because the right hire, the right partner, the right guide?

That’s the difference between sitting stalled on the shoulder… and accelerating with confidence.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗴𝗼 𝗼𝗳? 

What no longer serves you?

What are you just doing because it feels like you should but it’s not moving you forward?

Every time-waster, energy-sucker, and “going through the motions” task is slowing down your career transition.

Stop applying to jobs you don’t actually want. Stop attending networking events that aren’t strategic. Stop reading articles that don’t help you take meaningful steps.

Focus on the actions that matter. The moves that get you closer to your next role. The conversations that open doors instead of filling your calendar.

Clarity isn’t just knowing what to do it’s 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗽 𝗱𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴.

Job searching doesn’t have to be chaotic.

Before you hit “apply,” hit pause.

These questions help you filter out the noise and pursue roles that are truly right for you.

What constitutes the best possible offer for you?

———
Hi, I’m Maureen.

I help senior leaders cut through the stress of career transitions and step into what’s next with confidence.

Let’s connect to clarify your message, tailor your strategy, and make your job search more efficient.

Before you apply, pause...

Career change takes courage. 


→ Reinvention isn’t loud.

→ It doesn’t always look confident.

→ And it rarely happens in a straight line.

Read that last line again. 

There will be steps and missteps, wins and loses. 

You will need courage. 

Courage to reassess,

Courage to ask better questions,

and courage to keep going even when the outcome isn’t yet clear.

If you’re in that in-between space right now, you’re doing more right than you may think. 

Keep your head up. 

I believe in you.

You’ve got this. 
________

Hi, I’m Maureen. 

I guide six-figure executives through career changes.

I take the worry and wonder out of changing jobs at senior levels.

Let’s find time to talk about your career goals and ambitions. 

Reach out and we can get started!

What if career growth wasn’t about doing more…

but about choosing better?

For many senior leaders,  career momentum doesn’t stall from a lack of effort.

It stalls from too much of it; spread thin, unfocused and reactive.

But what if there was:

🛠️  Less noise.

🛠️  Fewer scattered efforts.

🛠️  More intention behind every move.

🛠️ Quality over quantity.

🛠️  Precision over abundance.

🛠️  The right conversations instead of all the conversations.

🛠️  The right opportunities instead of endless applications.

🛠️ The right skills sharpened, rather than collecting credentials for sport.


Careers don’t advance by accumulation.

They advance through discernment.

𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗶𝘀 𝗱𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲. 

If that feels quietly relieving, it might be worth asking:

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗳𝗲𝘄𝗲𝗿, 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘄?

Executives in career transition often say:
“𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝗺𝗲 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗮𝗻𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴.” 

It’s polite. It feels reasonable.
But it’s also the fastest way to stay invisible.

When you’re between roles, it’s easy to feel untethered; like you’ve stepped off the map and the compass hasn’t caught up.

Specificity is what brings the map back into view.

Instead of asking your network to “keep you in mind,” try giving them clear direction:

If you know a healthcare organization needing a leader who can stabilize teams through change, I’d love an introduction.

If you hear of a scaling tech company ready for a COO who can operationalize growth without burning out the culture, I’m open to a conversation.

If you cross paths with a board looking for someone who knows how to govern through regulatory complexity and shifting risk landscapes, I can help.

If you know a defence organization needing someone fluent in systems, policy and how decisions actually move, please think of me.

Your ask isn’t desperation.
Your ask is about direction.

𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝗽𝘂𝘀𝗵𝘆.
𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲. 𝗜𝘁 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗯𝘆.

It anchors you when the ground feels a little uncertain.

If you’re job searching at the executive level, consider sharing three things:

📢 Sector you’re targeting

📢 Problem you’re built to solve

📢 Environment where you do your best work

That’s how people start saying, “I know who you should talk to.”

You don’t need every door to open. 
You need the right door.

Job search is not for the faint of heart.

It takes stamina. Discipline. Resilience.

Because:
You will get rejected.
You will question your choices.
You will get frustrated.

And still, you have to do the work.

Whatever is causing you stress right now; chances are, you’re not alone.

I talk to highly qualified executives every day who struggle with job search, sometimes more than they expected. 

You will get through it.

Work with your trusted career professional to implement your plan.

And above all else, keep your head up.

Your next opportunity is closer than you think.

What’s consuming the most energy in your job search right now?

There’s a right way to use AI in your executive job search.

It’s not about cutting corners; it’s about gaining insight.

Read the full article,

𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗔𝗜 𝗶𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗝𝗼𝗯 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗟𝗼𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗘𝗱𝗴𝗲. 

Link in comments
———
Hi, I’m Maureen. 

I guide six-figure executives through career changes.

I take the worry and wonder out of changing jobs at senior levels.

Let’s find time to talk about your career goals and ambitions. 

Reach out and we can get started!

How to use AI in your job search

𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗶𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗿 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀

Your resume shouldn’t just say 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 you did.
It needs to explain 𝘸𝘩𝘺 𝘪𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥.

Too many resumes stop at activity.

* Built relationships.
* Briefed the Minister.

That tells me 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 about impact.

Now watch the difference when you connect the dots:

* Built cross-government relationships that secured $𝟮𝗕 𝗶𝗻 𝗳𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗳𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴, accelerating national priorities.

* Briefed the Minister, 𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲𝘀, preventing misinformation escalation and protecting public trust.

Same role.
Very different signal.

Executives aren’t hired for tasks.
They’re hired for judgment, influence, outcomes, and risk management.

If your resume reads like a job description, you’re underselling your value.

Make it easy for the reader to answer one question:

𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 - 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰? 

That’s the difference between having your resume reviewed and being remembered.

——-

Hi, I’m Maureen.

I help executives make smart, confident career moves when the path ahead isn’t obvious.

For the past two decades, I’ve worked with senior professionals and executives to clarify what they want next, translate their experience into a strong personal brand and navigate job changes strategically, not reactively.

If what I do sounds like something you need or would like to know more about, let’s connect.

——-

💾 Save this post for your next resume and LinkedIn profile update. Use the examples to rewrite powerful bullet points. 

♻️ Share this post with friends experiencing workforce adjustments (WFA), layoffs or career change. 

——-

You won’t believe the things I say to executives before they hire me.
 
When I meet with executives for the first time, many are interested in learning about career transition services. I ask them questions and listen to them to understand where they’re at and how I can support them.

Occasionally, I hear an executive say something about career transition that is grossly inaccurate. A myth that has permeated the way we think about career change, or a strongly held belief or misconception that’s out of alignment with common career practices. 

Allowing inaccuracies to persist does a disservice to others, so I call them out. Some examples of things I’ve said to executives, already this year:

* Yes, you have very valuable skills that qualify you for the position. You need to do more than qualify; that’s the bare minimum. You need to aim to be their top choice. 

* "𝘔𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘯, 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘨𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘨𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘴𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘴." You and every other Government of Canada employee who knows cuts are coming. What is it about YOUR skills that makes you uniquely qualified for the role?
 
* Your job search skills are outdated because you haven't had to look for work in years (or maybe decades!). In a sense, you’re a beginner who is competing with experts.
 
* I understand you don't want to eliminate opportunities, but stop treating ‘volume’ of activity as a strategy. It isn’t. And it waters down your brand, not to mention your reputation in the industry/community.
 
* Your resume doesn't do you justice. You're underselling yourself.
 
* You may believe you meet the criteria, but your resume tells a different story than the one you have in your mind. You might have the experience, but it’s not clearly communicated, so you’re the only one who knows you’re a fit for this role. 
 
* The leap from public to private sector isn’t easy, especially if you believe the hiring processes look the same. They don't; not by a long shot.
 
* Go into this job market knowing precisely what constitutes the best possible job offer for you. 
 
* I understand you’ve been working for 30+ years, and you have no idea how to look for work. It’s OK. You’re not alone. I’ve got you.
 
* No one is looking for you. “If something comes along…” is as likely a strategy as Arlene Dickinson driving to your house, knocking on your door and asking you if you have a business idea you’d like to pitch for Dragon’s Den.
 
* You can’t be ‘focused’ on all the jobs. You can’t focus on five different sectors. That’s not focus, that’s a scarcity mindset at best and risk aversion at worst. 
--
I get it. It’s not your job to know all of this, of course. Things change and shift, markets move. 

But it is my job to advise executives how to navigate this changing landscape. If you’re looking for honest feedback about your executive career transition, book a consultation. I’m happy to share my expertise.

Executives know lean principles: eliminate waste, focus on value.

So why do we treat job search differently? 

Sending dozens of generic applications is a waste of your time and energy. 

Focus on roles where your expertise creates real impact. 

Tailor your approach. 

Engage intentionally. 

Deliver value.

'Lean' your job search to land the role you deserve.

=====

Hi, I’m Maureen. 

I guide six-figure executives through career changes.

I take the worry and wonder out of changing jobs at senior levels. 

Let’s find time to talk about your career goals and ambitions.  

Reach out and we can get started!

The fastest way to stall an executive job search is a weak resume.


A weak resume tries to speak to too many audiences at once.

Resumes that capture attention are built by leaders who:

– Pause before acting
– Define a clear intention
– Align their search to a specific target
– Eliminate misaligned opportunities early

In doing so, they:

– Create momentum instead of noise
– Fewer applications
– Stronger conversations and
– Faster signal to decision-makers.

Strategic leaders tailor their narrative to the people who value their specific expertise.

An unfocused search puts you at the mercy of the market

– Reacting instead of choosing,
– Applying instead of being sought,
– Diluting credibility with every misaligned submission.

𝗔𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗶𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝗼𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹. 

It’s how executive searches stay efficient, credible and intentional.

A quick update from last week’s poll that asked:

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗷𝗼𝗯 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘄? 
(link in comments)

73 people responded. Here are the results:

• 58% are using their energy applying online
• 21% on networking
• 14% rewriting materials
• 8% second-guessing decisions

If nearly 60% of your energy is going into online applications and you still feel invisible, I invite you to try the following:

• Apply to fewer jobs. Tighten job targets and applications
• Finalize your materials + create a clear strategy to adapt applications within minutes
• Get help if you need it, but please stop second-guessing yourself
• Spend more time with the right people, having informed conversations

You don’t have to have it all figured out or do it all at once, and you certainly don’t have to do it alone. 

Small shifts, like reaching out to one person, finalizing your materials, and feeling confident in your decisions, will give you the much-needed space to breathe.

You’re in the middle of a demanding hiring process. 

Take it slow, be discerning about where you spend your time.

It’s not “just work.” 

Toxic environments can harm:

your health 

your confidence 

your ability to grow. 

Protect yourself by learning to spot the red flags early.

Read the blog post in the comments.
———
Hi, I’m Maureen. 

I guide six-figure executives through career changes.

I take the worry and wonder out of changing jobs at senior levels.

Let’s find time to talk about your career goals and ambitions. 

Reach out and we can get started!

Reasons to avoid toxic workplaces

There’s a moment in every career transition where tension hits like a freight train:

You feel pulled in three directions at once:

1️⃣ What you should do: the safe, logical, expected path.

2️⃣ What makes financial sense: the practical choice, the one that keeps the lights on and the mortgage paid.

3️⃣ What you genuinely want to do: the work that excites you, challenges you, and aligns with who you are.

The challenge? 

The three often don’t line up. When they clash, it feels impossible to move.

Here’s how to navigate it:

1. Acknowledge the tension. Ignoring it only makes decisions messier. Name the competing priorities and see them clearly.

2. Separate facts from feelings. What’s your financial reality? What lights you up? What does the market need right now? Each is its own data point.

3. Test assumptions. Can the “want” path be adapted to make financial sense? Can a hybrid approach bridge the gap?

4. Get help. Trusted advisors, mentors and coaches can offer perspective when emotions run high.

5. Prioritize clarity over speed. It’s tempting to act fast to relieve pressure, but clarity is what drives momentum.

Can you align what you should do, what makes sense and what you truly want?

It’s a tough question, and one many of us don’t want to think about. 

Even with experience, credibility and strong networks, landing a comparable executive leadership role quickly isn’t guaranteed and it’s certainly not easy.

Why?

Because senior-level searches aren’t about volume of activity. They’re about clarity, positioning and timing.

If your confidence to land an executive role isn’t where you need it to be, now is the time to improve that confidence. 

Instead of getting bogged down second-guessing yourself, writing resumes and applying to jobs online…

Craft a strategy that will cut through the noise, and get you back into a leadership role. 
________

Hi, I’m Maureen. 

I guide six-figure executives through career changes.

I take the worry and wonder out of changing jobs.

Ready to get the help you need? 
…to move efficiently in this market?  

Reach out and we can get started!

Feeling stuck in your job search?

Being “open to anything” can feel productive, but in reality, it can leave you overwhelmed and directionless.

Narrow your focus. 

Choose a few industries, roles, or leaders that excite you. 

The more specific you are, the more aligned your opportunities will be.

What’s one job or industry you know isn’t a fit? Start there. 

———
Hi, I’m Maureen. 

I guide six-figure executives through career changes.

I take the worry and wonder out of changing jobs at senior levels.

Let’s find time to talk about your career goals and ambitions. 

Reach out and we can get started!

taplio

The Battle

Dominic Imwalle

Maureen McCann

Followers

Posts

Engagements

Likes

Performance ScoreDominic Imwalle's LinkedIn Performance

Performance ScoreMaureen McCann's LinkedIn Performance

Ready to grow your LinkedIn presence?

taplio

The Battle

Dominic Imwalle

Maureen McCann

Followers

Posts

Engagements

Likes

Performance Score.css-goub6s{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);font-weight:500;color:var(--chakra-colors-gray-600);display:block;margin-top:var(--chakra-space-1);}Dominic Imwalle's LinkedIn Performance

Performance ScoreMaureen McCann's LinkedIn Performance

Ready to grow your LinkedIn presence?

Performance ScoreDominic Imwalle's LinkedIn Performance