Top 12 No BS Job Search Tips

Need some job search inspiration? Here are my Top 12, no-BS job search tips to help you find your focus and motivation again. Because you’ve got this - and you’ve always had this.

After 28+ years in IT recruitment (am I that old???), I can tell you what actually gets people hired - and it’s not just sending more applications and over-strategising against the dreaded ATS and recruitment AI!

It’s visibility. It’s consistency. It’s relationships.

And it’s treating job search like a process - not a crisis. You’re good at process, right? Well, it’s time to learn and master a new one - a process focused on you.

Most people wait too long to get serious. They wait for motivation. Or the “perfect job ad.” Or some clarity that never comes.

What actually works? Not procrastination. Just action. Conversations. Momentum. Progress comes from movement - not waiting.

So here’s my give to you - 12 things I share with every job seeker I coach.

No fluff. No bluff. No puff. Just what works.

1️⃣ Consistent Activity > Visibility > Noticeability > Opportunity

Momentum wins. Show up daily. Connect. Comment. Apply and network with intent.

2️⃣ It’s Just a Process - Not a Life Sentence

Job search is learnable. Interviews? Just business conversations. Don’t overthink it.

3️⃣ You Won’t Win Every Time - and That’s Okay

Rejection is feedback (if you don’t get ghosted!). Learn. Reset. Keep going.

4️⃣ Relationships over Applications

The best jobs go to trusted, remembered people - not just the most polished CVs.

5️⃣ Don’t Be Afraid to Hustle - It’s OK

Follow up. Ask questions. Be proactive. Be persuasive. Own your job search.

6️⃣ You’re Not Bothering Anyone

Ask for help, feedback or an update. People want to help - they just forget.

7️⃣ Activate Your Network - Don’t Sit on It

People can help - if they know what you’re great at and what you need.

8️⃣ Good Recruiters Can Be Career-Makers

Work with recruiters who get you. Support their success and they’ll support you.

9️⃣ LinkedIn is Your 24/7 Billboard

Make it clear who you are and what you bring. Optimise. Share. Comment.

🔟 Put Your Own Mask On First

This is emotional labour. Protect your energy. Rest. Reset. Come back strong.

1️⃣1️⃣ Your Resume Isn’t a Task List - It’s a Value Story

Don’t just say what you did - show the impact. Time saved. Revenue gained. Risks reduced. Show employers the value you bring.

1️⃣2️⃣ References Aren’t Just for HR - They’re Your Case Studies

References aren’t a formality - they’re proof. Use their words to amplify your impact and back your brilliance.

Need help getting back on track? Join our free CareerAGILITY IT Job Search Workshop.

Hundreds have walked away with fresh strategies, motivation and new connections - and you can too.