Looking back on my job search journey, now that I’ve successfully landed my dream job, I realize there are many things I wish I had known earlier. The job market for mid to senior-level professionals is vastly different from what it was when I first started my career. The strategies that worked back then don’t necessarily work today, and understanding that was key to navigating this process more effectively. Here are the lessons I learned, and I hope they will serve you well as you embark on your own job search journey.

1. Know Your Value and Own It

One of the biggest mistakes I made was underestimating my value. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you need to "settle" because you've been out of work for a while or because you fear you won’t find the right fit. But as a mid to senior-level professional, you bring a wealth of experience, strategic insights, and leadership skills that are invaluable to many companies.

What I wish I had known: You’re not just another candidate; you’re a solution to someone’s problem. Position yourself as such. I wasted a lot of time applying for roles that didn’t align with my level of expertise or value. Once I started targeting roles where I could truly make an impact, things began to fall into place.

2. Networking is More Important Than You Think

In the beginning, I thought I could rely solely on job boards and online applications. I quickly learned that only a small percentage of jobs are filled that way, especially for senior roles. In fact, most of the best opportunities never get posted publicly. They’re filled through referrals and networks.

What I wish I had known: Networking isn’t just about collecting contacts—it’s about building genuine relationships. I started to attend industry events, reached out to former colleagues, and even connected with professionals I admired on LinkedIn. These relationships proved invaluable, not only in learning about hidden job opportunities but also in gaining insights into the companies I was applying to.

3. Tailor Your Resume for Every Job

When I first began my job search, I made the mistake of creating one resume and sending it to every job opening I could find. I didn’t realize how important it was to tailor my resume to each position I applied for. Hiring managers are looking for candidates who clearly demonstrate that they understand the specific needs of their company.

What I wish I had known: A one-size-fits-all resume won’t cut it at the senior level. I learned to analyze job descriptions carefully and highlight the most relevant accomplishments and skills in my resume for each position. It’s more work upfront, but it significantly increased my interview rate.

4. Prepare for the Long Game

I had expected my job search to take a few months, but in reality, it took much longer. I wasn't prepared for the emotional toll of the highs and lows that come with it. There were times when I was close to landing a role, only to be passed over at the last minute. It was frustrating, to say the least.

What I wish I had known: The process takes time, especially at the senior level. Companies are making a significant investment in you, and they want to be sure they’re making the right choice. Be patient, and more importantly, be kind to yourself during this process. It’s easy to get discouraged, but remember that every "no" is bringing you closer to the right "yes."

5. Leverage Your Personal Brand

I didn’t realize how powerful personal branding could be until I was well into my job search. Your personal brand is how you present yourself to potential employers, both online and offline. It’s what sets you apart from other candidates and gives hiring managers a reason to remember you.

What I wish I had known: Your online presence is just as important as your resume. I took time to update my LinkedIn profile, wrote articles showcasing my expertise, and participated in discussions within my industry. Building a personal brand allowed me to demonstrate my knowledge and passion, which eventually attracted the attention of recruiters.

6. The Power of the Informational Interview

I had heard about informational interviews before but never gave them much thought. I assumed they were a waste of time or simply a way to gather information. But as I learned, informational interviews are so much more than that. They’re a way to build relationships, learn about industries or companies, and even create opportunities where none previously existed.

What I wish I had known: An informational interview can turn into a job offer. I had several conversations with people who weren’t hiring at the time but were impressed with our discussions and kept me in mind. When a role opened up months later, they reached out to me directly. Taking the time to have these conversations not only expanded my network but also led to unexpected opportunities.

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate

Once I received a job offer, I was so relieved that I almost accepted it without hesitation. I was just happy to have landed something. But I quickly realized that I needed to negotiate, not just for salary, but for the full package—benefits, vacation time, flexibility, and professional development opportunities.

What I wish I had known: Negotiating isn’t just about money—it’s about shaping your role. Companies expect mid to senior-level candidates to negotiate. It’s a sign that you understand your worth and are confident in your abilities. When I finally negotiated, I ended up with a much better package that aligned with my needs and long-term goals.

8. Culture Fit Matters More Than You Think

In the past, I would look at job descriptions and salary offers without giving much thought to company culture. That changed during my job search. I realized that no matter how great a role looks on paper, if the company’s values don’t align with yours, you won’t be happy there.

What I wish I had known: Cultural fit is as important as skill fit. I took time to research companies, talk to current and former employees, and ask the right questions during interviews. Understanding a company’s culture helped me make more informed decisions and ultimately led me to a workplace where I feel genuinely fulfilled.

9. Take Advantage of Career Assessments

At one point, I felt stuck in my job search and wasn’t sure which direction to take. That’s when I decided to invest in a career assessment, and it changed everything. Tools like the Myers-Briggs and CliftonStrengths assessments gave me deeper insights into my strengths, preferences, and leadership style.

What I wish I had known: Career assessments aren’t just for entry-level professionals. They’re incredibly valuable for experienced professionals who want to better understand where they fit in the corporate world. The assessments helped me articulate my strengths during interviews and made me more confident in seeking roles that aligned with my skills.

10. You’ll Learn About Yourself in the Process

Looking back, the job search was a learning experience in more ways than one. Yes, I learned about the job market and best practices for landing a role, but I also learned a lot about myself. I gained clarity on what I truly wanted from my next position—what motivated me, what kind of work environment I thrived in, and what I needed to feel fulfilled.

What I wish I had known: The job search is an opportunity for personal growth. It forced me to reflect on my career, my accomplishments, and my future goals. I came out of the process not just with a new job, but with a stronger sense of who I am and what I want from my professional life.

Final Thoughts

The job search, especially at the mid to senior level, can feel overwhelming and exhausting at times. But with the right mindset and strategies, it’s an incredible opportunity to find a role that truly aligns with your skills, values, and passions. If there’s one piece of advice I could give to anyone starting this journey, it’s to trust the process, stay persistent, and always remember your worth.

Landing my dream job wasn’t easy, but it was worth every challenge along the way. I hope these lessons help you find the same success.

Curt Skene
FOUNDER
Career Network Club