People in Transition

Discover the Secrets to Job Search Success with Career Coach Melanie Wexler
Welcome to another informative episode of “People in Transition”, the podcast where we explore stories and strategies to help f navigate life’s pivotal job changes with confidence.

In this episode, I’m thrilled to introduce Melanie Wexler—a dynamic Career Coach, Job Search Expert, and LinkedIn Strategist with over 20 years of experience in recruitment. Melanie has dedicated her career to empowering mid- to executive-level professionals to not just land jobs, but build careers that align with their unique values, strengths, and aspirations.
With her deep expertise in resume optimization, LinkedIn branding, and interview preparation, Melanie equips her clients with the tools they need to stand out in today’s competitive job market. But her approach goes beyond the technical; she also helps clients build the confidence and mindset needed for long-term success.
Here’s what you’ll learn in our conversation:
• How recruiters think: Their role is to find the best candidate for the company, not the other way around.
• The power of LinkedIn: Did you know 90% of recruiters look at your LinkedIn profile before your resume? Is your profile telling your story?
• Reflect before you act: Your job strategy should begin with understanding your likes, dislikes, and aspirations to build a targeted career plan.
• Embrace AI and technology: Don’t fear tools like applicant tracking systems or AI—use them to your advantage.
• Showcase your skills effectively: It’s not enough to list hard and soft skills; you need to show how you’ve applied them to achieve results.
• Build a support network: Talking to other job seekers can provide invaluable insights and encouragement.
• Bet on yourself: Remember, your next great opportunity is out there—you’ve got what it takes to find it.

If you’re looking to transition into a new role, re-enter the workforce, or simply find more meaningful work, this episode offers actionable advice and encouragement to help you succeed. Listen now to gain Melanie’s insights and feel free to reach out with any questions for Melanie or me. Don’t forget to share this episode with others who could benefit from these valuable tips!

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Feeling Burned Out? Discover How to Recharge and Redefine Your Life with Laura Nguyen

Are you feeling stuck, exhausted, or overwhelmed by burnout? You’re not alone—four in ten U.S. workers report feelings of burnout. In this compelling episode of People in Transition, Laura Nguyen shares her transformative journey and practical strategies to help you reclaim your energy, purpose, and joy.

Laura, a former VP and self-proclaimed chronic achiever, made the bold decision to step away from her high-powered career to confront burnout head-on. In 2022, she embarked on a life-changing career break, meticulously planning a program to rest, reset, and redefine her life. Her story is proof that stepping away isn’t a setback—it’s a breakthrough.

Now a marketing leader, certified executive coach, and founder of Cove & Compass, Laura helps others create fulfilling lives and careers. Her book, Career Break Compass, is a powerful guide for navigating burnout and leveraging career breaks to gain clarity and renewal. Drawing insights from her personal experiences and interviews with over 180 individuals, Laura redefines how we think about pausing to build momentum for the future.

In this episode, Laura and I explore essential topics from her book, including:

• What burnout really is and what personality types and environments are most prone to it.
• The stages of burnout and how to recognize where you are.
• Types of career breaks and how to choose the one that suits your needs.
• Anti-goals: Why identifying what you don’t want is just as important as knowing what you do.
• The four phases of a career break and how each one ensures your time off is a success.
• Your North Star: How to use it for career planning and rediscover your true purpose.
• Why the advice to “follow your passion” might not be the best path forward.

Laura’s insights illuminate a topic we don’t discuss enough—the toll burnout takes on our lives and how we can effectively recover from it. Whether you’re on the verge of burnout or simply curious about stepping off the treadmill to recalibrate, this episode offers a roadmap for thoughtful career breaks and sustainable career planning.

Listen to this eye-opening conversation and take the first step toward a healthier, more intentional future. Share it with someone who might need the encouragement to pause, reflect, and reset—it could change their life

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Ready to Take Your Job Search to the Next Level? Listen to This Must-Hear Episode with Mark Misiano!

If you’re determined to land your dream job, score a big promotion, or make a career pivot, this episode of People in Transition with Mark Misiano is exactly what you need. Mark, the founder of RésuméReady, brings his expertise as a Certified Professional/Executive Résumé Writer and Certified Professional Career Coach to help job seekers achieve success every step of the way.

Mark’s mission is simple: to help you unlock your potential, understand your value, and market your unique skills in a way that wows hiring managers. With his deep knowledge of résumé writing, LinkedIn optimization, interview preparation, and career coaching, Mark empowers his clients to stand out in today’s competitive job market.

In this episode, Mark shares game-changing strategies, including:

•Navigating the new hiring landscape: Why recruiters are less concerned about employment gaps post-COVID and how to rise above a crowded field of applicants.
•Tapping into the hidden job market: Learn how building authentic relationships with people at target companies can open doors to opportunities you didn’t know existed.
•Crafting tailored résumés: Discover how customizing your résumé for specific roles and companies can dramatically improve your chances of landing an interview.
•Using AI as a tool: Explore how AI can support your job search without replacing the human touch.
•The two traits of successful job seekers: Be tenacious, be authentic—and learn how mastering both makes getting hired easier and faster.
•Mark also explains why the “Quick Apply” button should only be a small part of your strategy and how to make the most of tools like LinkedIn to connect with hiring managers.
This conversation is packed with actionable insights that will inspire and empower you to take control of your job search. Whether you're new to the job market or a seasoned professional, Mark’s advice will resonate and provide practical steps you can start using today.

Don’t miss this powerful episode! Share it with friends, colleagues, or anyone who needs help finding their next great job. You’ll want to revisit this episode again and again. Your dream job is closer than you think—listen now!

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In this episode of "People in Transition," we're thrilled to introduce Scott Hulderson, a true expert in the job search strategy and career transition. Scott combines years of experience, certified behavioral sciences, and psychology-based tools to provide unparalleled guidance for job seekers at every stage. Scott's approach is both engaging and effective, offering genuine support for anyone serious about finding their next career opportunity.

Scott's coaching is built on clear goals designed to empower job seekers:

1. Stronger Personal Agency: Understand exactly where you hold influence—and how to make it count.
2. Visibility for Success: Learn to stand out in interviews, promotions, and partnerships, ensuring the right people notice you.
3. Certainty of Fit: With Scott's certified assessments, gain confidence in finding the roles that genuinely match your strengths.
With Scott's support, thousands have transformed their careers, impacting millions of dollars in value across 145+ companies in seven time zones.
In this episode, you'll learn:

• Key Job Search Skills: How effective communication and building trust can make a lasting impression on hiring managers.
• AI in Job Searches: AI can assist you, but ultimately, you are the key to success. Scott shares tips to balance AI with personal impact.
• Unlocking the Hidden Job Market: With 85% of jobs unlisted, Scott shows how LinkedIn can become your 24/7 job billboard.
• Powering Up Your LinkedIn and Resume: Avoid listing only responsibilities—highlight your work's results and impact.
• STAR Method for Interviews: Structure your answers with the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to leave a strong impression.
• Psychometric Assessments: Learn why psychometric tools are nothing to fear—they're valuable resources to help ensure a good fit for both you and the employer.
Scott's insights are direct, actionable, and backed by proven methodologies. He combines an impressive background in career coaching, leadership, and executive support with his own experiences in overcoming challenges.

Listen to this episode to learn practical steps you can take to start applying today. Scott's advice will not only help you stand out—it can accelerate your path to a job offer. Share this episode with fellow job seekers and let Scott's expertise guide you through a job search that's both effective and inspiring.

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Tune in to the “People in Transition” podcast for an interesting episode with Cecile Peterkin, founder and Chief Transformation Strategist at the Leadership Coaching Centre!
Cecile brings over 22 years of experience as a powerhouse in confidence coaching and mentorship, having transformed the careers and lives of more than 1,000 professionals and entrepreneurs. Her unique approach—rooted in the life lessons of resilience, kindness, and respect passed down by her father—guides others to redefine success on their own terms. Cecile’s remarkable blend of compassionate authority and grit will empower you to uncover your strengths, make purposeful pivots, and ultimately design a legacy career you love.

In this episode, Cecile shares a wealth of transformative insights that will enhance your career journey.

* Own Your Transition: Step into the role of CEO in your job search, know your "why-how-what," and experience a smoother journey.
* Know Thyself: Before you start your resume, understand who you are at your core. This self-awareness is a core element of a successful job search.
* Network with Heart: Remember, you’re more than your job title. Build connections by genuinely seeing and understanding others for richer, lasting relationships.
* Craft Your Life Vision: Picture your life 10-12 years from now and map out actionable steps to bring that vision to reality.
* Life: You learn more from the bumps you have in your life than from your successes.
* Trust Your Gut: When your intuition speaks, listen. It often knows what your mind has yet to process.

This episode is powerful, filled with actionable steps and Cecile's magnetic wisdom. Get ready to be energized, take notes, and listen again! Share this episode widely—it's essential for anyone navigating career transitions or striving to create a purposeful, impactful life.

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Looking for actionable strategies to navigate your next career move? In this episode, I sit down with Al Lichtenstein, founder and principal of HR RESULTS, LLC. With decades of experience as a senior HR executive and career coach, Al offers a wealth of practical advice for both individuals and small businesses.

Al's unique perspective comes from years of hands-on leadership in professional services and life sciences, where he implemented HR initiatives that fueled growth. But what makes him stand out is his personal experience: having once been a client of an outplacement firm and successfully completed a 9-month job search, he truly understands the challenges of job transitions from both sides.

In this conversation, Al shares tangible tips on how to strategically approach your job search, including:

• Clarifying your career goals: Use assessments to identify your key skills, ideal roles, and preferred working environment.
• Crafting an impactful resume: Go beyond listing duties—highlight your accomplishments. Answer the question, "My efforts resulted in…"
• Combating ageism: Avoid detailing jobs older than 15–20 years; instead, capture in an additional category titled:  Additional Professional Experience.
• Maximizing your networking: Al reveals why networking is far more critical than just sending out resumes—and how to do it right.
• Strategy when emailing new contacts: Use subject lines like “Bob Gerst suggested I reach out to you” to ensure your message gets noticed.
• Staying positive: Job searches are emotional roller coasters. Al explains how staying positive can boost your effectiveness.

I’ve been in the transition space for 40 years, and I learned several new tips from Al’s advice. After listening, you’ll walk away with a more thoughtful, more strategic game plan for landing your next great job—easier and faster.

Don’t miss this episode! Whether you’re in a career transition or just looking to sharpen your approach, Al’s insights will help you make the most of your job search.

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In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sean Wolpin, Vice President of Talent Operations at Prodege, who brings over two decades of expertise in Talent Acquisition, Compensation, and HR Systems. Sean is passionate about helping people find meaningful opportunities that allow them to thrive, and his insights are invaluable for anyone looking to land their next job.

Throughout our conversation, Sean shared a wealth of actionable advice for navigating today’s job market, including:

• The role of AI in job hunting: Sean explains how artificial intelligence is transforming recruitment and why candidates should embrace it to enhance their job search—whether it's for resume screening or automating interview scheduling.
• Self-reflection as the foundation for success: Before diving into a job search, Sean emphasizes the importance of understanding your values and goals. This clarity helps guide you toward opportunities that are truly right for you.
• A targeted job search approach: Forget the "spray and pray" method. Sean advocates for focusing on specific companies and roles that match your skills and interests, and he shares tips on how to research and prepare effectively.
• Networking that counts: It's not about the number of connections you make; it's about building meaningful relationships. Sean offers strategies to cultivate high-quality networks that can lead to real opportunities.
• Your personal brand: Think about how you want to be remembered, even decades from now. Sean dives into how self-reflection shapes your personal brand and why it's crucial for standing out in today’s competitive market.
• The power of soft skills: In addition to technical abilities, Sean stresses that communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are often the tipping points in job interviews. Don't underestimate their value.

Sean’s advice is practical, thoughtful, and designed to help you stand out in your job search. Whether you’re actively looking or just planning your next career move, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Tune in, and don’t forget to share it with others who could benefit!

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Welcome to this episode of People in Transition! Today, we’re excited to be joined by Victoria Michaels, an executive career coach who is passionate about helping senior professionals and executives navigate career transitions with confidence and clarity. Victoria has extensive experience working with leaders across a range of industries, including engineering, healthcare, marketing, and operations, providing highly personalized 1:1 coaching.

Since 2020, her team has coached over 280 professionals, delivering remarkable results, such as:

·       Helping clients secure higher-paying roles in as little as 2-4 months

·       Matching clients with dream roles at their ideal companies

Victoria specializes in personal branding and helping professionals stand out as top candidates by connecting with hiring managers in a way that makes them stand out. As a key member of the Dreampath team, she is dedicated to helping clients achieve meaningful career growth.

In this episode, you'll learn key strategies and insights, including:

• Hiring managers are not just looking at qualifications but also evaluating whether they want to work with you. Demonstrating your soft skills is crucial—let your resume speak to your abilities and experience.
• During interviews, show curiosity. Ask questions about the role, the manager, and the company to understand better whether it's the right fit.
• Always be honest and accurate in all aspects—whether you're networking, crafting your resume or cover letter, or interviewing.
• When targeting a specific role or company, identify the five key things they’re looking for and assess how you can meet those needs.
• Victoria’s own job search includes networking, connecting with new people, applying for roles, and sharing content on LinkedIn to demonstrate thought leadership.
• She even set a specific date for landing her next job—and achieved it.

I’m thrilled for you to hear about Victoria’s unique approach to career coaching and the success stories she’s been part of. Enjoy the episode!

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In this episode, we sit down with Mark James, CPC, the founder and president of HIRE Consulting Services (HCS), established in 1999. Mark is a Certified Personnel Consultant with over 25 years of experience in Executive Career Management Coaching, Outplacement, and Executive Search Consulting. Mark is the author of three best-selling books, including his latest release, "The Recruiter Mindset, The Ulitmate Guide to Working with Executive Search Recutiers."  Available on Amazon:  https://a.co/d/3OjrCJe

Here are some key points we covered from Mark's book:

• Executive recruiters can be a valuable part of your job search, but networking remains the #1 method for finding a job. 
• A well-crafted Job Search Marketing Plan (JSMP) is crucial for landing your next role. It should include: 
  • Clear goals about the job you're seeking 
  • Your elevator pitch 
  • An exit statement explaining why you're looking for a new job 
  • Eight examples of your accomplishments 
  • A list of target companies or industries 
• You have only 5-10 seconds to capture a recruiter’s attention with your resume, so make sure it clearly connects your background with your career goals. 
• To optimize your LinkedIn profile: 
  • Use a professional headshot 
  • Craft a headline that defines who you are, not just your job title 
  • Fully utilize the 2,000 characters in your "About" section to showcase your strengths and character 
  • Include your contact information, especially your phone number, for easy communication 
  • Remember that 96% of recruiters use LinkedIn, so make sure your profile is professional and aligned with your resume 

Mark’s approach to job searching is practical and insightful. This episode is packed with valuable information, and you’ll want to listen to it more than once and share it with your network!

To learn more about Mark and his services, visit www.HireConsulting.com.

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