Melissa Grabiner

Senior Talent Acquisition Partner

Hi there - thanks for stopping by. 😊

👋 Follow me for daily tips on Job search advice, HR & Talent Acquisition wisdom, productivity tips and heartfelt inspiration.

✍️ 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀: I collaborate with B2C and B2B brands through sponsored LinkedIn posts, promoting products and services that genuinely benefit my audience.

⭐️ 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗿𝘆 & 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: I serve as a trusted advisor to early-stage companies and partner with organizations to help optimize their Talent Acquisition strategies.

Please send me a message here or reach me at melissa@grabiner.us

🚀 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝘁: 
𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝘁𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲.𝗶𝗼/𝗺𝗲𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗿

Top 1% Job Seeker Coach & Advisor - over 500 Job Seekers Coached!

Whether you're struggling to get interviews, making a pivot, or trying to bounce back after a layoff, I offer straightforward help that actually get results. 

My offerings and how I will help you win: 

🔸 Resume rewrites that showcase your true value
🔸 LinkedIn profile makeovers to attract recruiters
🔸 Interview coaching & salary negotiation tips
🔸 Personalized job search strategy & mentorship
🔸 Networking support to help you open real doors

𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗺𝗲:

I am an Entrepreneur, Content Creator and HR and Talent Acquisition professional with over 2 decades of experience. On LinkedIn, I am considered one of the biggest thought leaders having over 472,000 followers. 

I am Ranked #2 Female LinkedIn Creator Worldwide and Ranked #1 HR LinkedIn Creator in the USA.

In the past year, my posts have amassed 2.1 million engagements and over 194 million impressions. I have been a guest on over 60 podcasts and host various LinkedIn Live Events.

I have been interviewed by The Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, Market Watch, Fast Company, Indeed Business and was featured three times on the Times Square Billboard in New York City.

Additionally, I am also a multiple award-winning Global Senior Leader with blended HR and Talent Acquisition multi-industry experience. 

• Created and built a strategic Talent Acquisition Function from inception for one of the largest companies in the world.

• Eighteen years' experience managing over 35 direct reports with zero attrition.

• During my career oversaw all hiring activity for over 25,000 employees.

• Expert in building and executing full talent solutions and strategies for both large and small organizations. 

• Skilled at full life cycle recruiting for various roles across numerous levels and functions.

Senior Talent Acquisition Leader

Speaking from my own experience.....

I'm happy to announce that NO company, title or paycheck is worth your peace or health.

Choosing your well-being first is always the smartest career move you can make.

Let’s be real: job hunting can really mess with your head.

The waiting, the rejections, the ghosting, the self-doubt.

Here are 8 ways to build your confidence during the search:

1. Reframe Rejection 
↳ Every “no” is one step closer to your “yes.”

2. Track the Wins – 
↳ Keep a “confidence file” with wins.

3. Update Your Resume Like a Highlight Reel 
↳ Own your impact, not just your job titles.

4. Celebrate Small Steps 
↳ Applied to three roles today? That counts.

5. Reconnect with Your Network 
↳ Don’t isolate, reach out. Most people truly want to help.
 
6. Keep Learning 
↳ Take a course, read a book, attend a webinar. 

7. Speak Kindly to Yourself 
↳ Replace “I’m not good enough” with “I’m still becoming.” 

8. Protect Your Energy
↳ Rest isn’t quitting. It’s recharging so you can come back stronger.
 
Job seekers, sending love and light. 💘

🍀 Please share to motivate job seekers.
🍂 Follow me, Melissa Grabiner, for more like this.

I was laid off twice in five years.

And each felt like a punch to the stomach.

I made a decision that I was done letting a CEO decide my fate.

I started two small businesses, and I only wish I had done it sooner.

Here’s what I’ve learned along the way: 

💡 A layoff doesn’t define you. It often redirects you.

💡 You have more skills than any one job can contain.

💡 Reinvention isn’t starting over. It’s starting smarter.

💡 The best career move you can make is betting on yourself.

💡 Your network is your lifeline, invest in it before you need it.

💡 The things that feel like endings are often just your wake-up calls.

💡 Security doesn’t come from a paycheck, it comes from adaptability.

💡 Confidence grows when you take action, not when you wait for permission.

My layoffs didn’t end my career.

They gave me the power to redesign it, and I've never been happier. 🧡

"I'd give anything to have a job right now."

As a resume writer, I hear this from all of my clients. 

Job seekers are burnt out from:

💡 Being ghosted
💡 Long interview processes
💡 Getting rejected without feedback
💡 Job postings that disappear overnight
💡 Roles that turn out to pay far less than advertised
💡 Endless assessments and take-home projects with no follow-up
💡 Employers who want “10 years of experience” for an entry-level role
💡 Interviewing multiple times to be told they went “in another direction”

Job seekers are not asking for the world.

They are asking for fair hiring practices, to be treated with dignity and respect and to be given a chance.

🩷 Please share if this resonates.
🙏 Follow me, Melissa Grabiner, for more.

I'm not going to lie.
 
Being a mom who’s always worked outside the home has been HARD.
 
Trying to balance a career and motherhood was challenging even on the best of days. 
 
But somewhere along the way my sons were watching.
 
They’ve grown into kind, thoughtful and hardworking young men.
 
And as a mom, truly, what more could I possibly ask for?
 
To every working parent:
 
You may not always feel like you're getting it right.
 
But your presence, your effort and your love all add up.
 
One day, your child(ren) will look back and realize you were their greatest example. 💓

I hope this is your week.

❤️ To get the interview
❤️ To hear a response
❤️ To be given a chance 
❤️ To receive the job offer
❤️ To finally feel seen for the value you bring
❤️ To have something go right after so much waiting

If not, know that nothing last forever.

I was laid off twice in five years, and looking back, both layoffs ended up being the best thing that could have happened.

Because they pushed me into chapters I never would’ve stepped into on my own.

You might not see it yet, but something better can come from this moment too.

And if you know someone who’s struggling in silence, reach out. 

A message, a lead, a recommendation, or a little encouragement can change everything for someone else 💗 

🍀 Please share to inspire job seekers.
🍂 Follow me for more like this!

I've been laid off twice in the last five years.

Both reshaped me and only one made me feel human.

The first time:
↳ The conversation was transparent, and human.
↳ My manager cried when she and HR delivered the news.
↳ I was told face-to-face with respect, empathy and compassion.
↳ My manager gave me a glowing reference and we're still close today.

The second time:
↳ My manager couldn't even make eye contact.
↳ There was no humanity in the process. Absolutely none.
↳ I found out through a cold calendar invite with no explanation.

Here’s the truth: 

Layoffs happen. 

But humanity, respect and compassion should never be the parts that gets cut.

VBI Education: The Future of Online Learning

I help organizations, educators and students confidently implement AI through natural, conversation-based approaches. From advising EdTech startups to helping Chegg integrate AI into course development, I transform complex AI initiatives into practical, accessible solutions. 

Impact & Expertise:
✨ Generated $4M+ in course revenue for clients
✨ Pioneered AI-powered educational solutions
✨ Published author leveraging AI since 2021
✨ Led AI initiatives in major EdTech companies and startups 

Current Focus:
💫 Strategic AI implementation training
💫 "Conversational AI Mastery" course for professionals & educators
💫 Educational AI innovation consulting

Whether you need AI training, implementation guidance, or innovation leadership, I transform AI uncertainty into confident action. Let's connect about making AI work naturally for your goals.

AI Education Strategist | EdTech Innovation Leader | Learning Experience Consultant

Leadership Reformation

Drawing from 20 years of leadership experience and expertise teaching graduate leadership courses, I create transformative online programs that develop exceptional leaders. My courses and training combine academic rigor with practical insights to help managers build engaged, high-performing teams.

Recent focus:

- Building scalable leadership development programs
- Creating practical frameworks for modern leadership challenges
- Teaching leaders to leverage AI and emerging technologies

Follow my insights on leadership innovation and team performance at LeadershipReformation.com

Leadership Development Expert | Graduate Leadership Instructor | Course Creator

Are you grappling with the challenges of a toxic work environment? Feeling overwhelmed and stressed by the daily grind? Look no further – the "Toxic Workplace Survival Guide" is here to lend a hand.

Featured in a recent Yahoo article, this book offers straightforward tips and techniques for stress management, helping you find inner peace and reclaim your best life.

From setting boundaries to handling challenging colleagues, the "Toxic Workplace Survival Guide" equips you with the tools to navigate difficult situations. Explore the 15 invaluable strategies, and use the reflective journal prompts to craft a personalized action plan, monitor your progress, and keep tabs on your stress levels.

Don't wait any longer – embark on the path to workplace serenity and life balance. Let the "Toxic Workplace Survival Guide" be your companion on this journey!

Author

Responsive Education Solutions

As Vice President of Virtual Learning at Responsive Education Solutions, I spearheaded the development of a mastery-based virtual charter school program that served students across the diverse landscape of Texas.

My leadership extended beyond strategy, as I cultivated a dynamic leadership team through coaching and provided integrated growth opportunities. In my role, I offered guidance across all facets of school-wide development, including marketing, curriculum development, and academics. I also took the helm as the product manager, overseeing the development and seamless integration of innovative technology solutions to support learner development.

With a keen focus on thought leadership, change management, and a deep commitment to advancing pedagogy, I played a pivotal role in transforming the landscape of virtual education, fostering growth, and enriching the learning experiences of countless students.

Vice President, Virtual Learning

Stepping into the role of Director and Head of Texas Virtual Schools at K12, I embraced the challenge of transforming an online public school system. This encompassed a broad spectrum of administrative responsibilities, including curriculum enhancement, enrollment optimization, budget refinement, personnel development, and innovative marketing strategies.

Navigating the intricacies of a remote environment, which spanned five online school campuses, and overseeing the educational journey of 8,000 students, I recognized the need for strategic improvements. My steadfast commitment to thought leadership, effective team building, and adept change management played a pivotal role in revitalizing our virtual schools. These efforts were essential for both immediate enhancements and the long-term prosperity of our educational programs.

Director, Head of Texas Virtual Schools

As the High School Principal for the Virtual Campus at K12, I led the charge in implementing high-quality online instructional programs within the public school framework. This included the direct supervision of over 130 educational staff members and the nurturing of 2,000+ students.

My focus extended beyond administration to the cultivation of future educational leaders and the creation of a professional school environment. Here, high-performing staff members were motivated to craft exceptional instructional opportunities for our students, emphasizing the importance of team building, change management, and leadership development.

High School Principal, Virtual Campus

Fannin County Special Education Shared Services Arrangement

As the Director of Special Education for the Fannin County Special Education Shared Services Arrangement, I assumed a pivotal role in revitalizing and overseeing special education programs across ten member districts, collectively serving over 6,100 students.

In this capacity, I led a team of 40+ dedicated professionals and undertook the significant task of redefining our programs. My focus extended to the development and meticulous administration of a multimillion-dollar budget, ensuring that resources were optimally allocated to meet the unique needs of each student. Additionally, I chaired monthly board meetings for the management board, fostering open dialogue and collaboration.

My journey was characterized by a commitment to K-12 education, adept team building, transformative change management, personnel development through coaching, and effective budgeting and program management. Through these efforts, I not only upheld the highest standards of pedagogy but also ensured staff development, all while maintaining a strong presence in public speaking and leadership.

I am proud to have played a role in reshaping and advancing special education services for our communities during this tenure.

Director of Special Education

Texas A&M University-Commerce

As an Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership at Texas A&M University-Commerce, my role was centered on nurturing excellence in education. During my time, I had the privilege of instructing online graduate-level courses in Educational Leadership.

My course portfolio encompassed subjects ranging from research methodology to specialized offerings in the principal preparation program, with a focus on public school law. Beyond instructional duties, I also took on the role of a course mentor, offering guidance and support to students as they navigated the intricacies of these courses.

Whether as an Adjunct or Assistant Professor, I remained dedicated to empowering the next generation of educational leaders, ensuring they were well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in the field of education.

Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership

Bells Junior High

During my time as School Principal at Bells Junior High in Texas, I had the privilege of contributing to the school community in various capacities.

My role encompassed the development and supervision of secondary education programs, an ongoing commitment to effective team building, and efforts to facilitate positive change management. Through coaching, I aimed to provide support to staff and students alike, fostering personal and professional growth.

Additionally, I was responsible for prudent budgeting and program management. My dedication to pedagogical excellence and the growth of leadership skills among the staff were core values during my tenure.

I look back fondly on my four years at Bells Junior High and am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of a team that worked diligently to advance secondary education and create a supportive learning environment.

School Principal

Hi, I'm Sara Baker, an AI Learning Strategist and EdTech innovator who helps professionals and educators confidently navigate the AI revolution.

From guiding major EdTech companies through AI transformation to helping entrepreneurs create successful online courses ($4M+ in client revenue), I've discovered that success with AI doesn't require technical expertise—just the right conversational approach.

As founder of VBI Education, I'm pioneering a natural approach to AI learning that transforms uncertainty into confidence. Whether you're feeling left behind by AI or ready to lead with it, I'll show you how to make AI your most powerful tool for learning and growth.

I'm the author of "Toxic Workplace Survival Guide" (created using AI in 2022) and am currently developing groundbreaking courses that make AI accessible through natural conversation.

Ready to transform your relationship with AI? 
→ Join my upcoming course "Conversational AI Mastery"
→ Explore AI-enhanced course creation
→ Discuss AI implementation for your organization

Connect with me at Sara@vbiEducation.com to start your AI journey.

#AILearning #EdTech #Innovation #OnlineCourses

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Melissa Grabiner

Sara Baker, Ed.D.

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The Battle

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Sara Baker, Ed.D.

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Likes

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