Career Briefs: Preparing to Win

Dear Reader:

Watching the US Open, we see the result of years of dedication and training. Two competitors step onto the court in each match, equally prepared and eager to win. But only one will emerge victorious in this high-stakes, high-pressure environment that demands their absolute best.

Your job search is no different. Each interview is a match in its own right. You've invested time, sharpened your skills, and researched the company. You enter ready to showcase your talent and potential. And while only one candidate will receive an offer, remember this:

Even if the outcome isn't what you hoped for, knowing you gave your best effort provides a sense of accomplishment and peace. It builds confidence for the next "match."

Much like tennis, a job search has its wins and losses. What truly counts is your determination, commitment to your goals, and willingness to learn and improve.

As you prepare for your interview, walk in with the confidence of a champion, ready to give your best. And when you leave, regardless of the outcome, take pride in the impression you've made.

Best of luck,

P.S. On your bad days, remember that even Andre Agassi, one of the greatest American tennis players of all time, had days when he lacked confidence. He wore a wig for a good portion of his career due to insecurities about his receding hairline. “Every morning, I would get up and find another piece of my identity on the pillow, in the wash basin, down the plughole,” he confessed in his autobiography Open. 

In this Issue

• Insider Tips on Creating an ATS-Friendly Resume

• Land a Leadership Role with a Startup

• AI Headshots: A Comprehensive Review

• AI in Resumes: Balancing Efficiency & Authenticity

• Australia's "Right to Disconnect" Law

• Non-Competes Under Scrutiny

• Equity Compensation Explained

• Developing Leaders for a Digital Future

• Advertise with Briefcase Coach

Insider Tips on Creating an ATS-Friendly Resume

Under the Hood: I interviewed two representatives at Zoho Recruit to learn how their applicant tracking system works. We discussed some of your most common concerns, including keyword matching, AI, and how job seekers can optimize their resumes to get noticed in 2024.

Here are some key takeaways from the article:

• Keyword Matching Still Matters: Keywords are crucial for getting past the initial ATS screening. Make sure your resume includes relevant keywords and clearly describes your skills.

• Context is Key: Don't just list keywords; add context to showcase your achievements and impact. Quantifiable results are a major plus!

• Content Trumps Formatting: Focus on crafting strong, tailored content that highlights your value. Don't worry too much about fancy formatting or sticking to a one-page resume.

• Remember the Human Element: Ultimately, recruiters make the final decisions. Optimize your resume for AI, but write it for a human reader.

Ready to elevate your resume and increase your chances of landing an interview? Check out the full article for more expert tips!

Land a Leadership Role with a Startup

Last week, I had a fantastic LinkedIn Live interview with Vanessa Larco. We covered so many valuable insights, especially for those considering a move from a big corporation to a startup.

We discussed the transition itself, negotiating equity and spotting red flags, and the best ways to job search and identify key decision-makers.

Interested in learning more about how to land a leadership role with a startup? Check out our interview, which includes a link to the full recording and a FREE VC interview prep guide!

AI Headshots: A Comprehensive Review

AI-generated headshots are everywhere on LinkedIn, and many professionals are ditching traditional photographers for these quick and affordable alternatives. But are these AI-created images truly as good as the real thing? In our [UPDATED] article, we tested four different AI headshots, comparing them to professional photos to see if they truly measure up.

AI in Resumes: Balancing Efficiency & Authenticity

Just three months after ChatGPT's debut, according to ResumeBuilder, nearly half of job seekers were already using AI in their resume creation process. Now, with even more advanced AI tools available, it's likely that number has skyrocketed.

But, as resume expert Tom Prowner cautions, job seekers must not to lose the human touch on their career documents and job applications in the pursuit of efficiency. AI can be a valuable assistant, but over-reliance can lead to generic resumes, ethical concerns, and even damage to your professional reputation. Creating a unique and targeted resume will prove more valuable.

Australia's "Right to Disconnect" Law

Australia recently passed a law granting workers the "right to disconnect" outside of work hours, meaning they can ignore work-related emails and calls without facing repercussions. This landmark legislation highlights the growing global movement to address work-life balance concerns in an increasingly connected world.

For job seekers, this news highlights the importance of finding companies that value employee well-being and respect boundaries. Before accepting any position, do your research. When looking for a company with a healthy work environment, ask about their policies and expectations regarding communication outside of work hours. This will help you ensure the company's values align with your own need for work-life balance.

Non-Competes Under Scrutiny

Recently, there has been a lot of debate and legislative actions surrounding non-compete agreements. As these restrictive policies face increased scrutiny, you may find greater flexibility in negotiating terms or even avoiding them altogether. However, as a job seeker, it's important to understand the specific laws and regulations surrounding them.

I'm thrilled to announce my upcoming LinkedIn Live interview on Monday, September 16th at 12:30 PM EDT with top employment lawyer, Tom Spiggle. We'll discuss common executive employment issues like non-compete agreements, potential pitfalls, and protecting your rights in case of termination. Even if your current job situation is great, it's smart to be prepared for any challenges that might arise in the future.

Equity Compensation Explained

Equity compensation, such as stock options or restricted stock units, is increasingly common in executive compensation packages. While it may seem complex, understanding equity compensation can help maximize your earning potential. Essentially, it offers you a stake in the company's success, aligning your interests with those of the shareholders. However, it's important to carefully evaluate the terms and potential risks before accepting any offer. For a deeper dive, check out this excellent article from JP Morgan that covers the ins and outs of executive equity, including tax implications and 10b5-1 trading plans.

Developing Leaders for a Digital Future

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, where technological advancements and digital disruption are the norm, companies need leaders who can navigate this new reality. Companies must invest in developing the next generation of leaders who possess the skills and mindset to thrive in a digital future. This means cultivating adaptability, fostering a learning mindset, and encouraging innovation at all levels. By prioritizing leadership development, companies can hire and train the talent needed to lead them through the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.

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