Amaze

Lead the growth of Amaze and Spring across EU and India

Director of GTM (Europe + India)

Pavilion

Executive Member

Partnership Leaders

ReachInbox

GTM Advisor

Zapmail.ai

Giift

VP - EMEA

RocketHub

Closed 103 partnerships including with Stripe, Nvidia, Mathworks, Intel, Google, Polygon and many more.

Partnerships Specialist

SaaSPay

SaaSPay is a simple Buy Now Pay Later solution built for SaaS expenses. 
Buy SaaS tools of your choice today from our 50+ partner sellers, and pay back up to 8 months later.

Why BNPL for SaaS? 
Up to 40% of a company’s budget is on tech tools. With SaaSPay,
unlock parked capital to offset burn & reimagine capital productivity.

AGM - Partnerships + Enablement

Simpl

Partnerships Specialist - D2C Vertical

Canva

- Initiated and closed Partnerships for the various products of Canva including Canva Button, Print and Education.
- Drove agency and influencer engagement programs to drive acquisition
- Account Management with Partners
- Created an launched Canva for Startups (Beta) in India working closely with Incubators, Accelerators, VCs and Startup Communities

Lead - Partnership + Marketing

Growth Enabler, Strategic Partnerships, Partner Marketing and Partner Success Enabler. D2C and Startup Enthusiast

** I do not accept cold invites without personalized message or context. **

Having helped more than 21000 students land jobs and internships, Yogi currently heads the GTM in Europe and India for Amaze.

Previous at Canva, enabled exponential growth at Canva by setting up their Campus Ambassador Program , Set up Innovative Engaging events and Institutional Partnerships with Colleges, Schools, Coworking Spaces, Incubators, and Accelerators.

Before as the founder of StartupSurge he has organised events to help startups to capture and polish their ventures

Some of our Coveted Events Have been

1. Mega Internship Fair 2017- Bangalore (1300+ Students, 83 Startups and 490+Openings).
2. NthPreneur, Unlocking Layers of Entrepreneurship a Summit to help discern the layers involved in setting up your venture.
3. Design-A-Thon, The hack-a-thon for design community.
4. City wide Job and Internship fairs at Bangalore, Namakkal, Karur. (Over 50000 students impacted)

You can email him at yogix@hey.com

"Tell me about a challenge you faced."
Most candidates use S.T.A.R. Top performers use S.O.A.R.

❌ STAR tells what. ✅ SOAR shows HOW.
❌ STAR tells stories. ✅ SOAR shows strategy.

✅ The winning framework:
→ Situation: Quick context (15s)
→ Obstacles: What made it hard
→ Actions: YOUR specific moves
→ Results: Numbers + learning

Why it works? That 'O' for Obstacles.
It shows you see what others miss.

𝗦𝗢𝗔𝗥 𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: (👉 Swipe through all 10 examples!)

1️⃣ 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘀
S: Mobile app launch, 50K users waiting
O: Backend failing, team panicking, CEO watching
A: Built queue system, hourly updates, phased rollout
R: Zero downtime, 98% satisfaction, promoted

2️⃣ 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝗹𝘁𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻
S: Inherited worst region
O: 3 clients leaving, team demoralized, no data
A: 1-on-1s with clients, rebuilt confidence, tracking
R: Saved all 3, 47% revenue increase

3️⃣ 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲
S: 3-month project, client wants 3 weeks
O: Half team on vacation, unfamiliar tech
A: Negotiated phases, brought contractor, worked alongside
R: Delivered MVP on time, $2M follow-up

4️⃣ 𝗕𝘂𝗱𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗦𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝟲𝟬%
S: Marketing campaign mid-flight
O: Agencies pulling out, goals unchanged
A: Guerrilla tactics, user-generated content
R: 3x engagement, 40% under budget

👉  Swipe for 6 more examples including team conflicts, system migrations, and crisis management!

5️⃣ Cross-Cultural Conflict
6️⃣ Legacy Migration
7️⃣ Customer Threatening Lawsuit
8️⃣ Hiring Freeze
9️⃣ Competitor Poaching
🔟 Failed Product

𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗛𝗢𝗪 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸.

To stand out,
Pick your best story and write it S.O.A.R style below.
I'm reviewing all responses personally.

♻️ Share with someone prepping for interviews.
➕ Follow me (Yogi Gnanavel) for #CareerGTM strategies that work

Yogi Gnanavel

The hiring process is broken. I teach the systems to get hired faster | The Acceleration Guy - GTM Leader

Tell me about a challenge faced. SOAR Interview Framework

You crushed the interview.
Then you went home and... did nothing.
Big mistake.

→ 68% of hiring managers say a thoughtful follow-up influences their decision
→ Yet only 24% of candidates send one

Here's the 5-step system I teach every candidate:

1️⃣ . The 4-Hour Thank You Rule

Send that email within 4 hours. Not tomorrow. Not next week.

Template that works:
"Hi [Name], Thank you for discussing [specific topic]. Your point about [context] gave me new clarity on the team's mission. I'm even more excited about contributing to [specific challenge discussed]."

Pro tip: For in-person interviews? Handwritten note. Prepare it beforehand, personalize after, drop at reception.

2️⃣ . The 24-72 Hour LinkedIn Connect

Don't just send a generic request.

Include a personal note:
"Enjoyed our discussion about [specific topic]. Would love to stay connected and share relevant insights."

Then actually share value. Article they'd find useful? Industry update? Send it.

3️⃣ . The "Missed Opportunity" Message

Forgot to mention something crucial? Your follow-up is the fix.

"One thing I missed elaborating on: my work with [project] directly aligns with your [specific challenge]. Happy to walk through the details."

4️⃣ . The Initiative Proposal

Interview sparked an idea? Don't let it die.

"Given our discussion around [problem], I created a brief strategy outline addressing those challenges. Would this be helpful?"

Shows you're already thinking like a team member.

5️⃣ . The Open Door Close

End with confidence, not desperation:
"Please let me know if you need any additional details. Excited about the opportunity and would love to stay in touch either way."


Your interview doesn't end when you leave the building.

It ends when you get the offer.

What's your follow-up strategy after interviews? Drop it below - let's help each other land those offers.

#CareerGTM

Following up part 2 - post interviews

3 Opening Lines That Kill Your Chances
These responses seem harmless. But they signal something deeper to the interviewer. And it's costing you your jobs.

Example 1: The Rambler
"So I graduated from State University in 2010 with a degree in business administration, then I worked at my first company where I started in sales but moved to operations after 18 months because..."

The interviewer's internal monologue: "Please stop. Please stop. Please stop."

Example 2: The Vague Professional
"I'm a passionate, results-driven team player who loves collaborating to drive innovative solutions in dynamic environments."

Translation: "I have nothing specific to say about what I actually do."

Example 3: The Resume Pointer
"Well, you have my resume right there. What specifically do you want to know?"

Congratulations. You just told me you didn't prepare for the most predictable question in interviewing.

Here's What Works Instead:

• Where you are: What you do now and what you're known for
• One win with numbers: Make it relevant to this job
• Why you're here: Connect your story to their opportunity

"I'm a product manager at [Company] focused on mobile user acquisition. Last quarter I led a redesign that increased conversion by 34%. I'm here because you're scaling your consumer product team, and that's exactly where I want to build next."

30 seconds. Clear value. Done.

The truth:

80% of candidates skip this preparation.

Spend 10 minutes writing your answer. Practice it twice out loud. Not in your head & actually say the words.

This is the difference between "great resume, didn't feel like the right fit" and getting to round two.

♻️ Share this if you're interviewing soon
➕ Follow Yogi Gnanavel for more no-BS interview tactics

3 Opening Lines at Interview that Killing your chances

Linear careers are dead. 73% of professionals still don't get it...


OLD PLAYBOOK (DELETE THIS):
School → Job → Promotion → Retirement

NEW REALITY:
12 job changes. Skill half-life: 5 years. Your network is your net worth.

THE 5 PILLARS THAT ACTUALLY MATTER

1️⃣ SKILL STACKING
Your skillset loses 20% relevance every year.

That 45-year-old director who learned TikTok from her intern? Now running their biggest campaigns.

Action: Pick one emerging skill every quarter. Apply it within 48 hours.

2️⃣ NETWORK ARCHITECTURE
85% of jobs never get posted. They go to someone's someone.

Build before you need:
→ 200+ active connections
→ 5+ different industries
→ Coffee chats when you DON'T need a job

3️⃣ PERSONAL BRAND
That intern posting Excel tricks? Getting recruiter DMs.
The VP "too busy" for LinkedIn? Still unemployed.

Post weekly. Document your work. Be findable.

4️⃣ COMMUNICATION MASTERY
93% of employers rank this above your degree.

Master the basics:
→ Explain complex ideas simply
→ Write emails people actually read
→ Present without putting people to sleep

5️⃣ CROSS-FUNCTIONAL FLUENCY
Single-skill experts = first to get cut.

Winning combos:
→ Marketing + Analytics
→ Sales + Product
→ Tech + Business

😵 Career stability is dead. Career agility is everything.


👇 WHAT'S YOUR WEAKEST PILLAR?
Drop it in the comments. I'll share the exact framework to fix it.

(Seriously. I read every comment. Let's fix this together.)

♻️ Share this with someone still following the old playbook
➕ Follow me (Yogi Gnanavel) for more Career GTM strategies
Image credits: Malay Matalia

#CareerGTM

The fastest way to kill your interview chances:
(Most candidates do at least 3 of these)

I know because I've watched 500+ candidates over-prepare themselves right out of job offers.

The 5 "best practices" that are actually red flags:

𝟭/ 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰 𝗚𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗶𝘁
"I want to work here because you're a great company with amazing culture."

Instant eye roll. Every candidate says this exact phrase.

You just told me you spent zero minutes researching us. That you're applying everywhere and hoping something sticks.

→ The fix: Mention specific projects, recent news, or company initiatives
→ Reference the actual role requirements in your answers
→ Connect your experience to our current challenges

𝟮/ 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗚𝗮𝗺𝗲
"My last boss was toxic. Management had no idea what they were doing."

Red alert. If you trash-talk previous employers, you'll do it to us too.

Every company has problems. How you handle them reveals character.

→ The fix: Focus on what you learned, not what went wrong
→ Say "It wasn't the right fit" instead of attacking former colleagues
→ Highlight how challenges helped you grow professionally

𝟯/ 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿-𝗥𝗲𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗼𝘁
Perfectly scripted answers. Zero personality. Sounds like they're reading from a teleprompter.

We want humans, not chatbots.

→ The fix: Prepare talking points, not scripts
→ Let your personality show through stories and examples
→ It's okay to pause and think before answering

𝟰/ 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗤𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗼𝗱𝗴𝗲
"Tell me about a time you failed."
"Well, I can't really think of any major failures..."

Lying or lacking self-awareness? Either way, you're done.

Everyone fails. Pretending you don't makes you untrustworthy.

→ The fix: Own your failures with specific examples
→ Focus on what you learned and how you improved
→ Show growth mindset, not perfectionism

𝟱/ 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗲
"Do you have any questions for us?"
"No, I think you covered everything."

This tells me you're not curious. Not invested. Just collecting interviews.

Great candidates always have questions.

→ The fix: Prepare 3-5 thoughtful questions about the role, team, or company challenges
→ Ask about growth opportunities and success metrics
→ Show you're already thinking like an insider

The reality?
These red flags appear in 80% of interviews. Avoid them, and you're already ahead of most candidates.

Hiring Managers - What's the worst interview red flag you've witnessed? 👇

♻️ Share with someone prepping for interviews
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5 Interview Red Flags

The 12 interview questions that actually decide your fate.
(And how to answer each one)

After interviewing 500+ people and helping 21,000+ land offers, I've seen brilliant candidates crash because they didn't know which answer framework to use.

"Tell me about yourself" needs a different approach than "Why should we hire you?"

Most candidates use the same generic pattern for every question.
That's why they keep getting rejected.
---

1. "Tell me about yourself"
Framework: CONNECTION → PROOF → RELEVANCE

→ Connect your story to their needs
→ One standout achievement
→ Why THIS role excites you
❌ Wrong: Starting with "I was born in..."

2. "Why do you want this job?"
Framework: RESEARCH → ALIGNMENT → VISION

→ Name specific projects you've researched
→ Show values alignment
→ Connect to your 2-3 year plan
❌ Wrong: "It's a great opportunity"

3. "Why should we hire you?"
Framework: PROBLEM → PROOF → CONFIDENCE

→ 2 strengths solving their problems
→ Back with concrete numbers
→ Confidence without arrogance
❌ Wrong: Listing skills without connection

4. "What's your biggest strength?"
Framework: MATCH → STORY → IMPACT

→ Match their top requirement
→ 60-second story proving it
→ End with measurable impact
❌ Wrong: "Hardworking" without proof

5. "What's your biggest weakness?"
Framework: REAL → ACTION → PROGRESS

→ Pick something real but fixable
→ Steps you've already taken
→ Prove it's not holding you back
❌ Wrong: "I'm a perfectionist"

6. "Where do you see yourself in 5 years?"
Framework: GROWTH → SKILLS → ALIGNMENT

→ Show hunger for growth
→ Focus on skills, not titles
→ Align with their direction
❌ Wrong: "I want your job"

7. "Tell me about a challenge"
Framework: S.T.A.R.

→ Situation: Context
→ Task: Your responsibility
→ Action: Steps taken
→ Result: Outcome achieved
❌ Wrong: Blaming others

8. "Why are you leaving?"
Framework: POSITIVE → GROWTH → FORWARD

→ Zero negativity
→ Focus on what you're running TO
→ Growth and opportunity
❌ Wrong: Complaining

9. "How do you handle pressure?"
Framework: EXAMPLE → PROCESS → RESULT

→ Specific high-pressure situation
→ Your process for staying calm
→ Results from keeping cool
❌ Wrong: "I work well under pressure"

10. "How do you prioritize?"
Framework: SCENARIO → SYSTEM → OUTCOME

→ Example of competing deadlines
→ Your decision system
→ Outcome proving it works
❌ Wrong: Vague "making lists"

11. "Tell me about teamwork"
Framework: ROLE → CONFLICT → WIN

→ Your specific contribution
→ How you handled conflict
→ Team win you enable
❌ Wrong: "I'm a team player"

12. "Any questions for us?"
Framework: PERFORMANCE → CHALLENGE → GROWTH

→ "What does exceptional look like?"
→ "What's the biggest challenge?"
→ "How do you measure success?"

❌ Wrong: Asking about vacation first
---
I watched a senior candidate nail questions 1-11.
Then bombed question 12 by asking about PTO.

Verdict:
No offer.

♻️ Share with someone prepping for interviews
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12 Common Interview Questions

10 reasons you're not getting hired (and don't know it).


Most job seekers don't fail because they're unqualified.
They fail because their strategy is broken.

Here's how to fix it: 👇 

1. Generic resumes that scream "mass apply"
92% fail ATS checks. Each role needs its own impact story. Keywords matter more than design.

2. Applying everywhere
100 generic applications = 0 replies.
10 targeted ones = 3+ interviews.

3. Ignoring role requirements
You don't need to match 100%.
But 70-80% skill alignment is your sweet spot.

4. Zero company research
89% of failed applications lack context.
10 minutes of prep can 10x your chances.

5. No follow-up system
36% of hires come from follow-ups.
Templates + reminders = more conversions.

6. Weak LinkedIn presence
"Open to work" isn't enough.
Lead with your value. Show results.

7. No application strategy
Random applying = random results.
Track. Learn. Adjust.

8. Job boards only
70% of roles never hit job sites.
Your network is your real resume.

9. Giving up too soon
The average hire faces 20+ rejections.
Each "no" gets you closer to "yes."

10. Treating job search like luck, not leverage
The job market rewards strategy, not desperation.

The brutal truth?
If you want results, stop chasing jobs. Start attracting offers.

Which of these mistakes have you made?
Drop a number in the comments.

♻️ Share and repost this to help others open their eyes
➕ Follow me (Yogi Gnanavel) - let's fix broken job searches together

#CareerGTM

"AI skills required" appears in 73% of job postings. 
But 89% of candidates don't know where to start.
The gap isn't closing. It's widening.

Fresh grads and entry-level folks competing with experienced pros while watching AI take over basic tasks.
Senior professionals feeling left behind.

Stop chasing shiny new tools. Start building actual skills.

Stephanie Hills, Ph.D. 🔥 curated this amazing resource list - give her a follow and checkout her newsletter.

I tested ChatGPT every day for 6 months in 2023.
What I learned: AI fluency isn't about knowing tools.
It's about learning to think differently.

These aren't random courses. They're from the companies building AI — Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, Harvard.

Here are the 10 that actually move the needle:

𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘂𝗱 - 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼 𝘁𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗜
Learn what generative AI actually is and how it works
🔗 https://lnkd.in/e-v3KKrE

𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗼𝗳𝘁 𝗔𝗜 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲
Start with basics, continue through neural networks
🔗 https://lnkd.in/eB2YRdZK

𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗔𝗜 𝗔𝗰𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗺𝘆
Learn AI from the people behind ChatGPT
🔗 https://lnkd.in/efe4zCGB

𝗔𝗪𝗦 - 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗽𝘁 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴
Master the principles for effective prompts
🔗 https://lnkd.in/epaZYtUA

𝗩𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗯𝗶𝗹𝘁 - 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗽𝘁 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝘁𝗚𝗣𝗧
Structured techniques for better outputs
🔗 https://lnkd.in/eCSA3ywv

𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗲/𝗗𝗲𝗲𝗽𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴.𝗔𝗜 - 𝗟𝗟𝗠𝗢𝗽𝘀
Build and operate LLM applications
🔗 https://lnkd.in/enMfJrgX

𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗔𝗜 - 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀
What AI agents are and how to build them
🔗 https://lnkd.in/ebA_6JQF

𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗮 - 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
Design and build RAG systems
🔗 https://lnkd.in/e_HYmTar

𝗛𝗮𝗿𝘃𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗖𝗦𝟱𝟬 - 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼 𝘁𝗼 𝗔𝗜 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗻
AI fundamentals with hands-on Python
🔗 https://lnkd.in/e-_m6qQY

𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗲 - 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗔𝗜
Why responsible AI matters
🔗 https://lnkd.in/eMuj2xpw

𝗕𝗢𝗡𝗨𝗦: 𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗔𝗜 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹𝘀
Free AI tools and learning paths
🔗 https://grow.google/ai/

Job seekers & entry-level: Add AI skills now to skip past basic tasks and add real value.
Senior pros: Stay relevant by understanding what your team will use.

These courses are free. The only investment is your time.

Don't bookmark this and forget it.
Pick ONE course today. Block 30 minutes this week.
That's how you'll stay competitive.

Which course matches your career stage? 👇

♻️ Repost to help your network stay competitive
➕ Follow Yogi Gnanavel for Career GTM strategies that actually work

"We went with another candidate."
Those six words hit different when you know you said the wrong thing.

Last week, a senior engineer with 10 years experience nailed every technical question.
Then asked about vacation time in question three.
The energy shifted instantly.

No offer.

The phrases that kill offers (and what actually works):

❌ "I don't have questions" → Shows zero curiosity about the role 
✅ Ask: "What would success look like in the first 6 months?"

❌ "I'm looking for any job right now" → Screams desperation, not dedication ✅ Say: "I'm excited about how my strengths in X align with this role"

❌ "I hated my last boss" → Red flag: you'll trash us next 
✅ Say: "I learned a lot, but I'm ready for new challenges that match my goals"

❌ "I don't know much about your company" → You couldn't spare 10 minutes to research? 
✅ Say: "I was impressed by your recent X initiative - how does this role support that?"

❌ "How much does this pay?" → Cart before the horse 
✅ Say: "I'm excited about the role and would love to ensure compensation aligns with expectations"

❌ "I don't have weaknesses" → Either lying or zero self-awareness 
✅ Say: "I've been working on X - here's what I've done to improve"

❌ "I'm not great at time management" → Weakness without a solution = liability 
✅ Say: "Time management was a focus area - I now use X system to stay organized"

❌ "I know I'm underqualified, but..." → Why are you selling against yourself? ✅ Say: "I bring strong experience in X and I'm excited to grow into the challenges"

❌ "I was fired" → Instant negative association 
✅ Say: "The role ended unexpectedly, which helped me refocus on strengthening X skills"


❌ "I don't really have career goals" → No ambition = no investment 
✅ Say: "Short-term, I want to excel here. Long-term, I'm focused on growing in X area"

❌ "When can I get promoted?" → You haven't even started yet 
✅ Ask: "What does career growth look like here? How do you support employee development?"

Your words matter more than your resume.
Candidates and hiring managers - which interview mistake have you witnessed from either side? 👇

♻️ Share with someone prepping for interviews 
➕ Follow me (Yogi Gnanavel) for #CareerGTM strategies that work

What Not to Say in Interviews

Perfect resume. Years of experience.
Never made it past the phone screen.

Phone screens are the first cut.
80% of candidates never make it to the "real" interviews.
You have 10 minutes to prove you deserve a shot.

Recruiters scan 100+ candidates weekly.
They want quick wins, not novels.
Context. Action. Result.
The CAR method cuts through the noise.

10 phone screen answers that landed offers:

1️⃣ Sales Performance
Context: Territory down 40% in Q1
Action: Rebuilt key accounts, adjusted pricing
Result: Q2 revenue up 65%, exceeded quota

2️⃣ Product Launch  
Context: Product 6 months delayed
Action: Reset timeline, daily stakeholder updates
Result: Launched 2 weeks early, 95% satisfaction

3️⃣ Cost Optimization
Context: 30% budget cut
Action: Automated processes, renegotiated contracts
Result: Maintained output, saved extra 15%

4️⃣ Customer Retention
Context: Top client (30% revenue) threatening to leave
Action: Weekly check-ins, redesigned support
Result: Renewed 3 years, spend up 40%

5️⃣ Team Management
Context: Missing 60% of deadlines
Action: Unified roadmap, clear metrics
Result: 95% on-time delivery in 3 months

6️⃣ Digital Transformation
Context: Reporting taking 2 days weekly
Action: Built automated dashboard, streamlined data
Result: Cut to 2 hours, saved 30 hours/week

7️⃣ Crisis Management
Context: System outage affecting 10K+ customers
Action: Led response team, hourly updates
Result: Restored in 4 hours, kept 98% customers

8️⃣ Process Improvement
Context: 25% product returns
Action: Supplier audits, new quality checks
Result: Returns down to 3%

9️⃣ Market Expansion
Context: Zero presence in new market
Action: Local partnerships, 2-city pilot
Result: $2M year one revenue

🔟 Operational Efficiency
Context: 40% below industry speed
Action: Redesigned workflow, new system
Result: 50% faster, 99.2% accuracy

That's the power of preparation.

Remember:
Phone screens are your first impression
You have 60 seconds per answer
Numbers speak louder than words

Your turn: Pick one win from your career.
Write it: Context (1 line), Action (1 line), Result (numbers).
Practice until you nail it in 45 seconds.

Your next phone screen is your chance to stand out.

♻️ Share with someone prepping for interviews  
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Phone Screening - CAR Framework

Most job seekers treat hiring like a lottery.
Winners treat it like a funnel.

After helping thousands navigate this process, here's how the Getting Hired Funnel actually works in 2025:

𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗚𝗘 𝟭: 𝗔𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦
Get discovered by the right people.

Your goal: Make yourself visible where hiring managers look.

Key moves:
→ Optimize your LinkedIn profile for AI screening
→ Show up on targeted job boards
→ Share content that demonstrates expertise

Track: Profile views, recruiter messages, search appearances

𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗚𝗘 𝟮: 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡
Build credibility that makes them want to know more.

Your goal: Prove you're worth a conversation.

Key moves:
→ Share quantified achievements
→ Engage in industry discussions
→ Connect directly with hiring managers

Track: Content engagement, interview requests, warm referrals

𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗚𝗘 𝟯: 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗧
Get shortlisted for the role.

Your goal: Stand out in the application pile.

Key moves:
→ Tailor every application precisely
→ Prepare targeted STAR stories
→ Research interviewers thoroughly

Track: Application-to-interview ratio, callback rates

𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗚𝗘 𝟰: 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡
Land the offer.

Your goal: Show clear value and negotiate strategically.

Key moves:
→ Demonstrate go-day impact plans
→ Create competition intentionally
→ Ask growth-focused questions

Track: Interview-to-offer rate, salary improvements

𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗚𝗘 𝟱: 𝗢𝗡𝗕𝗢𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚
Accelerate your success.

Your goal: Build momentum and prove your worth fast.

Key moves:
→ Establish key relationships in 30 days
→ Document early wins
→ Stay visible through content

Most people focus only on Stage 3 and 4.
The winners optimize the entire funnel.

Which stage are you stuck at right now?

♻️ Share and repost this to help others open their eyes
➕ Follow me (Yogi Gnanavel) - let's fix broken job searches together

Everyone teaches the STAR method for interviews.
Nobody tells you when it completely backfires.

The truth: STAR only works when you use it strategically.

10 behavioural questions and EXACTLY how to nail them:

1️⃣ "Tell me about a time you failed"
❌ Wrong: "I'm such a perfectionist..."
✅ Right: "I underestimated a project timeline by 3 weeks. Here's what I changed..."

2️⃣ "Describe a conflict with a coworker"
❌ Wrong: "My colleague was completely unreasonable..."
✅ Right: "We had different approaches. I scheduled coffee to understand their concerns..."

3️⃣ "When did you go above and beyond?"
❌ Wrong: "I always go above and beyond..."
✅ Right: "I noticed onboarding took 3 days. Built a portal that cut it to 4 hours..."

4️⃣ "Tell me about leading without authority"
❌ Wrong: "I told everyone what needed to be done..."
✅ Right: "I created a shared doc showing how each team would benefit. Got buy-in from 5 departments..."

5️⃣ "Describe handling multiple priorities"
❌ Wrong: "I'm great at multitasking..."
✅ Right: "I use a priority matrix. When marketing wanted a feature mid-sprint, I showed the trade-offs..."

6️⃣ "When did you disagree with your manager?"
❌ Wrong: "My manager was wrong about the strategy..."
✅ Right: "I respectfully presented data showing a different approach could save $50K..."

7️⃣ "Tell me about missing a deadline"
❌ Wrong: "The requirements kept changing..."
✅ Right: "I miscalculated the testing phase. Told my manager immediately. Now I build in 30% buffer..."

8️⃣ "Describe teaching something complex"
❌ Wrong: "I explained it step by step..."
✅ Right: "I noticed they were visual learners, so I switched from docs to diagrams..."

9️⃣ "When did you influence without data?"
❌ Wrong: "I convinced them because I knew I was right..."
✅ Right: "The data would take 2 weeks. I leveraged my track record and proposed a pilot..."

🔟 "Tell me about receiving difficult feedback"
❌ Wrong: "I don't really get negative feedback..."
✅ Right: "My manager said I interrupted in meetings. It stung, but she was right. I now write notes first..."

The reality: 
STAR is just a framework. Your stories, self-awareness, and strategic thinking are what actually land offers.

Here's your homework:
Pick ONE question. Write your answer. Time yourself - 90 seconds max.

Still bombing the question? Let's fix it together.

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#CareerGTM

10 - STAR Method Examples

You spent 3 hours perfecting your resume.
The hiring manager spent 7 seconds on it.

Those formatting tweaks? They didn't matter.

In those 7 seconds, they weren't reading.
They were pattern matching.

Google's People Ops studied this. Recruiters scan for exactly 5 things:

→ Company logos (borrowing trust)
→ Role progression (your trajectory)  
→ Specific keywords (their problem language)
→ Tenure patterns (will you stay?)
→ Quantified impact (numbers that prove it)

Everything else? Invisible.

Why? Pattern matching. Fast. Automatic.

The same brain function that spots faces in crowds now spots "startup PM who scales" or "enterprise seller who closes 7-figures."

These patterns aren't truth. They're beliefs that become real through repetition.

2016: Nobody filtered for "AI experience"
2024: AI/ML appears in 73% of product roles

I had a candidate test this:

Version 1: 
"Led customer analysis to improve retention"
→ 0 callbacks from 14 applications

Version 2: 
"Built churn prediction model, reduced churn 23%"
→ 2 callbacks from 8 applications

Same project. Different pattern match. Different outcome.

Stop perfecting your format.
Start matching the patterns the market scans for.

Which pattern are you missing on your resume? 👇

♻️ Share with someone still tweaking fonts
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Job searching messes with your head. 
One minute you're motivated. 
The next, doom-scrolling LinkedIn wondering if you'll land a role.

Here’s how to get it back:

1️⃣ Feeling Angry
Sing one full song. Then draft 1 outreach message.
Turn that frustration into connection.

2️⃣ Feeling Burned Out  
Walk 10 minutes outside. Leave your phone behind.
Reset your mind in the real world.

3️⃣ Feeling Anxious
4-4-6 breathing for 3 rounds. Then apply to 1 role.
From panic to progress in 5 minutes.

4️⃣ Feeling Stressed
Move for 5 minutes. Then clear 5 emails.
Physical movement breaks mental blocks.

5️⃣ Feeling Sad
Write down 3 wins from the last year.
Remind yourself what you're capable of.

6️⃣ Feeling Lazy
Two-minute rule: open 1 job description, tailor 1 bullet.
Tiny moves create momentum.

7️⃣ Feeling Impatient
Pause. Rewrite 1 resume line with a specific metric.
Channel that energy into improvement.

8️⃣ Feeling Lost
Ask 1 person for a 15-minute call about 1 target role.
One conversation can change everything.

You don't need a perfect day to make progress.
All you need is a 5-minute move that gets you unstuck.

♻️ Save this to help you when stuck
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"What's your biggest weakness?"...


The question that makes 90% of candidates sweat.

I've heard every generic answer while interviewing 500+ candidates.
"I'm a perfectionist."
"I work too hard."
"I care too much."

Stop. Just stop.

Use the R.E.E.L Framework instead - turns weakness questions into strength demonstrations.

Reality: Be honest about the trait
Example: Quick story to prove it
Effect: How it impacts your work
Learn: What you're doing to improve

𝟱 𝗥𝗘𝗘𝗟 𝗘𝘅𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸:

1️⃣ . The Over-Analyzer
Reality: "I can get stuck analyzing data instead of making decisions."
Example: "Last quarter, spent 3 days perfecting a report that needed 1."
Effect: "Delayed our campaign launch by 48 hours."
Learn: "Now I set decision deadlines. Analysis stops at 80% confidence."

2️⃣ . The People Pleaser
Reality: "I struggle saying no to additional requests."
Example: "Took on 4 extra projects and quality suffered."
Effect: "Main project hit 85% instead of my usual 95%."
Learn: "I use a priority matrix. Everything gets ranked before I commit."

3️⃣ . The Solo Player
Reality: "I default to working alone instead of delegating."
Example: "Built our entire onboarding system myself - took 6 weeks."
Effect: "Team felt underutilized and I burned out."
Learn: "Now I assign ownership areas. I mentor instead of doing."

4️⃣ . The Conflict Avoider
Reality: "I avoid difficult conversations too long."
Example: "Waited 3 months to address a performance issue."
Effect: "Problem escalated and affected team morale."
Learn: "I schedule 'difficult conversation Friday' - forces me to act."

5️⃣ . The Feedback Taker
Reality: "I take feedback too personally initially."
Example: "Spent a weekend upset about code review comments."
Effect: "Delayed my improvements and affected my mood."
Learn: "I wait 24 hours before responding. Emotion settles, logic emerges."

→ Swipe for 5 🖐  additional REEL examples that hiring managers love

Your weakness isn't what disqualifies you.
Lack of honesty about it is.

Which R.E.E.L example resonates with your experience? 👇

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#CareerGTM

Biggest Weakness - REEL Framework to the rescue

Want to master AI in 2025? 

These tech giants just made their best AI courses completely free...

9 game-changing courses to level up your AI skills (with direct links)

1. 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗼𝗳𝘁'𝘀 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗜
• Master the fundamentals of generative AI models
• Navigate ethical considerations with confidence
• Apply AI tools in real-world scenarios
→ https://lnkd.in/g8mHWnW2

2. 𝗔𝗺𝗮𝘇𝗼𝗻'𝘀 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗜 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻
• 11 Hours of focused learning
• From basics to building AI applications
• Includes hands-on prompt engineering
→ https://lnkd.in/gQsJM_rF

3. 𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗲'𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗜
• Deep dive into Large Language Models
• Framework for responsible AI implementation
• Practical application strategies
→ https://lnkd.in/gMTsAMVE

4. 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝘃𝗮𝗿𝗱'𝘀 𝗔𝗜 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗻
• Build real-world AI projects
• Master Python for ML applications
• Design intelligent systems from scratch
→ https://lnkd.in/g94wgRR5

5. 𝗜𝗕𝗠'𝘀 𝗔𝗜 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗲
• Demystify AI fundamentals
• Explore ML and neural networks
• Get insider career guidance
→ https://lnkd.in/gVzmPai4

6. 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘅 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻'𝘀 𝗔𝗜 𝗙𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹𝘀
• Navigate different AI technologies
• Discover industry-specific use cases
• Identify career opportunities
→ https://lnkd.in/gPQwaQE4

7. 𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘂𝗱'𝘀 𝗠𝗟 & 𝗔𝗜
• Build production-ready ML systems
• Hands-on with Google Cloud
• System optimization techniques
→ https://lnkd.in/gfqqf9dk

8. 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝘁𝗚𝗣𝗧 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀
• Create custom AI applications
• Build intelligent chatbots
• Master prompt engineering
→ https://lnkd.in/gn52auMi

9. 𝗔𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗕𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀
• 12-week comprehensive curriculum
• Master Symbolic AI, Neural Networks, NLP
• Hands-on labs and practical exercises
→ https://lnkd.in/gFHdjnd2

---------------------
Share with someone investing in their AI skills
Follow me Yogi Gnanavel for more career acceleration strategies that work

Monday felt like entering a cage. Friday felt like parole.

But those weekend mountain trips with my friends? That's what kept me sane.

Here's what two years in a soul-crushing job taught me:

#1: You need a release valve.

Mine was weekend getaways. Yours might be the gym, gaming nights, or Sunday brunch with your crew.

Whatever refills your tank, guard it like your life depends on it.

Because it does.

#2: Your people matter more than your position.

A bad job with good friends is survivable.

A good job with no support system will break you.

I've seen both. Choose your circle wisely.

#3: Joy isn't optional when you're grinding.

I didn't stay for the paycheck. I stayed because I had something to look forward to.

Those mountain trips after five days of corporate monotony? Pure oxygen.

#4: Not every job needs to be your dream job.

Some are just stepping stones.

But you need fuel to keep moving forward.

The truth: You can survive almost any job if you have people and moments worth showing up for.

What's keeping you going right now?

Share this with someone grinding through a tough season.

Follow me (Yogi Gnanavel) for honest career talk and by the way the one on the extreme left in red that's me.

450 applications. 18 months. Zero offers.

I met him at a coffee shop.
Laptop covered in coding stickers.
Dark circles under his eyes.

"How's the search going?"

He laughed. The kind that's not actually funny.

"I got rejected from 3 more roles this week.
All saying I'm 'not quite the right fit.'
I don't even know what that means anymore."

Then I asked:
"When did you last code for fun?"

He froze.

Stared at his coffee for what felt like forever.
"I... god, I don't even remember.
Two years? Maybe more?"

His voice cracked.
"What am I doing?"

18 months. 450 applications.
For a career he didn't even want anymore.

I have seen this pattern everywhere:

→ Sunday night dread that feels "normal"
→ Skills you're building that you hate using
→ Rejections that feel like relief, not disappointment  

You're not failing at persistence.
You're succeeding at the wrong goal.

I did this too.

18 months in my first job.
Gained 15 kgs.
Anxiety attacks in the office bathroom.
Telling myself "just one more quarter."

The breakthrough I was waiting for?
It was never coming.

Because I was watering a dead plant. 

What nobody tells you: There are two types of career valleys.

✅ Growth Valley:
• Pain + progress
• Sunday anxiety about doing it RIGHT
• Learning curves that excite you
• Tired but energized

❌ Dead-End Valley:
• Pain + repetition  
• Sunday dread about doing it AT ALL
• Skills you never want to use again
• Exhausted and empty

You already know which one you're in.
Your body already knows the answer.
Your Sunday nights are screaming it.

How many more months will you ignore it?

♻️ Share with someone grinding in the wrong direction
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Hiring managers trash 80% of follow-up emails without reading past the subject line.
Here's why: They're generic, late, and add zero value.

After interviewing 500+ candidates, I've seen the same pattern: 
The ones who follow up strategically tend to land offers quickly. 

The ones who don't? They're still waiting by the phone.

The truth: Your competition sent their follow-up 2 hours ago while you're still "thinking about what to write."

Here's the exact framework that separates offer winners from eternal waiters:

✅ THE 4-HOUR RULE

Send within 4 hours. Not 24. Not 48. Not "when you get around to it."

I've watched great candidates get sidelined because someone else followed up faster. Speed signals genuine interest.

📄 THE ANATOMY OF A FOLLOW-UP THAT GETS READ

Subject: "Thank you - [Specific Role] interview with [Their Name]"

Why this works: Searchable. Personal. Not "Great meeting you!"

Paragraph 1:
→ Thank them (5 seconds)
→ Reference ONE specific thing you discussed
→ Show you were actually listening

Paragraph 2:
→ Connect your experience to their biggest challenge
→ Add NEW value (article, insight, solution you didn't mention)
→ Prove you're already thinking like their employee

Paragraph 3:
→ Clear next steps
→ "Looking forward to discussing [specific thing]"
→ Professional close

💢 THE MULTI-TOUCH STRATEGY NOBODY TEACHES

Week 1 silence? Send this:
"Hi [Name], Following up on our [date] conversation about [specific topic]. Still excited about [specific aspect of role]. Happy to provide any additional information."

Week 2 silence? Final attempt:
"Hi [Name], Closing the loop on our discussion. If you've moved forward with other candidates, I appreciate the opportunity to interview. Would love to stay connected for future opportunities."

Then stop. Seriously. Stop.

🔴 WHAT KILLS YOUR CHANCES

❌ "Just checking in!" (You're not their friend)
❌ Multiple emails per week (Desperate)
❌ 500-word essays (They have 47 other emails)
❌ "Per my last email..." (Passive aggressive)
❌ Following up about benefits/salary first

🤝 THE LINKEDIN POWER MOVE

4 hours post-interview: Send connection request with this note:
"Enjoyed our discussion about [specific topic]. Would love to stay connected and follow your journey with [specific initiative they mentioned]."

This keeps you visible without being pushy.

The reality: Most candidates either never follow up or send forgettable templates. Do this right, and you're already ahead of 80% of your competition.

What's the worst follow-up mistake you've made? (We've all been there) 👇

♻️ Share with someone interviewing this week
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Guide to Follow-Up Part 1

While everyone's panicking about layoffs, here's what nobody's talking about:
Major companies are filling thousands of roles RIGHT NOW.

I tracked down the actual companies mass-hiring in September through October. The numbers shocked me.

𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗚𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗢𝗻 𝗮 𝗛𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗲:
Tesco, Asda Express, Wm Morrisons, McDonald's.
Thousands of roles. Both permanent and seasonal.
They're not waiting for "market conditions to improve."

𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁:
Black Swan Care Group. Sanctuary Care. Anchor.
Carers, nurses, healthcare assistants.
The shortage is so severe they're recruiting internationally.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗲 𝗚𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗥𝘂𝘀𝗵:
Oracle. KPMG. BAE Systems. AstraZeneca.
Hollywood Bowl Group Plc. Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd.
Application windows open NOW for 2026.
Miss this window? Wait another year.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿-𝗧𝗵𝗲-𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗮𝗿 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀:
Howden (insurance) - expanding globally
E.ON (energy) - sustainability roles everywhere
Veolia - 50 countries, hiring faster than average
Costa Coffee - management trainee programs

The pattern I'm seeing?
Companies aren't hiring for today.
They're staffing for the recovery that's already starting.

While others are doom-scrolling layoff announcements, smart candidates are positioning themselves where the growth is happening:
→ Healthcare (chronic shortages)
→ Energy transition (massive investment)
→ Essential retail (recession-proof)
→ Tech infrastructure (AI boom needs builders)

𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘄:

Graduate scheme deadlines are THIS MONTH.
Healthcare is hiring with urgency.
Retail needs leaders, not just workers.

The job market isn't completely dead.

♻️ Share with someone who needs to see opportunities, not obstacles
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