Job hunting is a full-time job, which is why today we are bringing you some of our top tips to help you find the job you are looking for, ask for more money, and generally step into your amazing self. Many people lost their jobs last year, and with the increasingly competitive job market, it is crucial to know how to stand out. Sophie dives right in, talking about the power of LinkedIn and why your network is your net worth. Having transitioned from a prolific career in finance to the entertainment industry, Sophie has seen just how valuable connections are. Having never had a conventional 9-to-5, Venita has also had most of her opportunities come from the people she knows. We then talk about cover letters, where Venita gives her take on why they are almost more important than resumés. People want to work with people they know, like, and trust, so your cover letter is your chance to show who you are. Other topics we cover in this jam-packed conversation include virtual interviews, being aware of how your social media impacts your ability to land a job, and the power of following up. Just remember, you are going to get rejected, and that is ok. That says nothing about just how brilliant, unique, and valuable you are. Keep going and have faith; your dream job is just around the corner!  

Key Points From This Episode: 

• LinkedIn is your best friend when job hunting: hear tips on making a profile detailed enough.
• The importance of networking and how this helped Sophie transition from finance to media.
• Venita’s professional history and the numerous jobs she has had without working a traditional 9 to 5.
• The rave reviews Venita got for her cover letters and what she looks for in potential hire’s cover letters.
• Why your lack of experience does not have to hold you back from getting the job you want.
• How Sophie reached out to people when she moved to the U.S.
• Don’t underestimate the connections you make; you never know where they could lead.
• Ask for help and find mentors with whom you can build mutually-beneficial relationships.
• Tips on negotiating your salary so you get paid what you are worth.
• Why you should invest in a ring light for your Zoom interviews.
• Ways to stay professional and how to stand out in virtual interviews.
• Be open, but understand that there are lines that should not be crossed.
• There are no limits to what you can attach to emails; send a video of yourself in a job application.
• If your social media compromises your ability to get a job, tidy it up, or hide it.
• Job interview day tips: be ready with notes, send a thank you and follow up email.
• Why you should never accept a job on the spot. 
• Don't be afraid to ask why you did not get a job; it's a lesson for your next application.
• Final tips: take what works for you and apply it to your job hunt, and rejection is not the end!

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Group Chat Realness Facebook Page

Venita Aspen

Venita Aspen on Twitter

Venita Aspen on LinkedIn

Venita Aspen on Instagram

Sophie Gold

Sophie Gold on Twitter

Sophie Gold on LinkedIn

Sophie Gold on Instagram

Group Chat Realness on Instagram

Kate Spade