Newsletter

Every January, I hear some version of this: “I know what I want next. So why does it still feel like things aren’t clicking?” Sometimes it’s timing. Often, it’s something simpler. The issue I see a lot People aim for more senior roles - but still describe their work at a more junior level. Not because they’re unqualified. Because they default to talking about what they did , not the decisions they made . The work is strong. The signal isn’t. Why this matters Hiring managers d

I recently had a wrap-up conversation with a client - someone whose search took longer and went in more directions than he expected. He landed a role he’s excited about, and while I’m over the moon for that win, the real story (I think) is in what the process taught him. His search wasn’t straightforward - there was clarity work, networking, timing, and a lot of figuring out what actually felt right. Here’s what he shared: 1. “I had to put my own oxygen mask on first.” He’d b

Every week, I see brilliant, senior people who led complex launches, programs, or GTM motions…struggle to explain their impact in a way that makes anyone outside their company understand (or care). And it’s not because they’re bad at storytelling. It ’s because high-performance cultures train you to value the wrong parts. A few examples: At Amazon , you’re rewarded for diving into the weeds. You succeed by knowing every defect, dependency, and operational nuance. Inside Amaz

You finally got the email. A recruiter screen is on the books. Cue the panic: “It’s been years since I’ve done one - what do I even say?” ​​ Let’s clear something up: A recruiter screen isn’t an interrogation or a skills test.It ’s a fit check — to confirm the basics before they move you forward. They’re listening for a few things: Do you meet the minimums for the role (skills, level, background)? Do you sound like you want the role ? As it is written - at this level, pay

You apply for a role that looks right. Then you hear: “We’re worried you might be too senior.” It sounds like you’re overqualified,...