Why You're Not Getting Interviews (And What to Actually Do About It)

Episode Summary

This episode tackles the frustrating challenge of job applications not converting to interviews, focusing on an effective alternative strategy: strategic coffee chats. Through real-world examples and practical advice, Trina explains how to transform networking into job opportunities.

Key Takeaways

1. The Power of Coffee Chats
   • Traditional applications often lead to "radio silence"
   • Coffee chats, when done correctly, can unlock the hidden job market
   • 70% of jobs are never publicly posted
2. Who to Reach Out To (In Order of Effectiveness)
   • People with shared connections
   • Alumni from your school or previous companies
   • Recent role/company switchers
   • Senior leaders/hiring managers (last resort)
3. The Perfect Outreach Strategy
   • Follow the 2/2/2 rule: Never contact more than two people per company simultaneously
   • Best timing: Tuesday through Thursday, morning hours
   • Response rate can jump from 1-5% to 20%+ with proper approach

Success Story Highlight

Denise's Journey:

• Months of unsuccessful traditional applications
• Changed approach to strategic coffee chats
• Result: One coffee chat → three introductions → two interviews → job offer

Practical Tips

Crafting the Perfect Outreach Message

1. First line: Personal connection to their work
2. Second line: Your brief story (one sentence)
3. Third line: Specific time request (20-30 minutes)
4. Final line: Suggested meeting times

During the Coffee Chat

• Arrive 15 minutes early
• Prepare minimum 5 specific questions
• Offer to pay for their coffee
• Listen more than talk
• Take subtle notes
• Never directly ask for a job
• Respect time boundaries

Follow-Up Strategy

• Send thank you note within 24 hours
• Reference specific conversation points
• Show genuine appreciation for their time

Next Episode Preview

• Deep dive into follow-up techniques
• Template messaging for converting coffee chats to job offers

Key Statistics

• 80% of professionals consider networking essential
• Cold outreach typical response rate: 1-5%
• Strategic outreach potential response rate: 20%+

Resources Mentioned

• LinkedIn (for network research)
• Professional networking platforms

Note: This episode is part of the FLEXIFY2- Your Job Search Evolved Podcast series

Check out my Top 100 Interview Questions eBook on Etsy!

https://www.etsy.com/shop/Flexify2Downloads