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Do You Really Understand How Hiring Works?

Writer's picture: Renata BernardeRenata Bernarde
4 hours ago

Episode 280 - Two Career Coaches, One Conversation: Navigating Job Market Challenges Together




As career coaches, Dr. Kyle Elliott and I work closely with corporate professionals navigating career transitions, layoffs, and the evolving job market. We often see the same challenges crop up across industries, and when we had the chance to sit down for The Job Hunting Podcast, it became clear just how many overlapping themes exist in our work. This conversation was a powerful exchange of insights, strategies, and shared experiences, to help job seekers and career changers succeed in 2025 and beyond. 


From the impact of AI in hiring to the realities of negotiating return-to-office policies, we tackled the issues that affect job seekers daily. This episode and blog are idea for executives looking to pivot, professionals struggling with workplace changes, or anyone trying to stand out in an increasingly competitive market. Our aim was to provide tips and insights to help you take control of your career path. 


The Illusion of Stability and the Rise of Career Agility 


If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that job stability is a myth. Many seasoned professionals spent decades investing in corporate loyalty, only to find themselves navigating layoffs, restructures, or stagnant career paths. This realization is forcing professionals to adopt a more agile mindset that prioritizes continuous learning, adaptability, and proactive career management. 


Dr. Elliott and I both transitioned from traditional employment to career coaching, not as an escape, but as a response to market needs. Today’s professionals must think like entrepreneurs, even if they are employees. Building a personal brand, staying ahead of industry trends, and strategically networking are non-negotiable for long-term career success. 


Here are the main themes we discussed on the podcast. 


Diversity, Inclusion, and the Shifting Corporate Landscape 


The recent rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives by some major corporations has sent ripples through the job market. As companies pivot their DEI strategies in response to political and economic pressures, job seekers from underrepresented backgrounds must navigate this evolving landscape carefully. One of the key takeaways from my conversation with Dr. Elliott was the importance of assessing company culture before accepting a job. It is crucial to ask hiring managers for specific examples of their DEI commitment rather than relying on generic statements. Professionals must also decide if, when, and how to disclose personal details such as neurodiversity, LGBTQ+ identity, or caregiving responsibilities during their job search. Working with an experienced coach like Kyle or myself would be a must for anyone affected by these changes. 


AI Disruption: Friend or Foe for Job Seekers? 


Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the hiring process, from resume screening to interview assessments. While some professionals fear AI-driven hiring will eliminate jobs, others see it as an opportunity. Dr. Elliott and I both encourage job seekers to embrace AI in their job search and professional development. For example, some hiring managers now expect candidates to have experimented with AI tools when crafting their resumes or cover letters. As one of my colleagues recently noted, if a candidate says they haven’t used AI in their job application, it could raise concerns about their adaptability. The reality is that AI is here to stay, and job seekers must position themselves as tech-savvy, no matter their industry. 


The Return-to-Office Dilemma 


One of the hottest topics in corporate circles is the push to return to the office. Many organizations are demanding that employees return to full-time, in-person work, while professionals—many of whom have been working remotely for years—are pushing back. Kyle shared that many of his clients are struggling with these mandates, particularly in tech, where flexibility was once the norm. My clients echo similar frustrations, with some facing ultimatums: return to the office or risk career stagnation. This raises fundamental questions about work-life balance, corporate culture, and the future of knowledge work. For professionals facing this shift, negotiation is key. Some companies may be open to hybrid arrangements or other accommodations, but only if employees make a compelling case for their productivity and contributions from remote settings. 


The Unspoken Truth About Job Searching 


Perhaps the biggest takeaway from my conversation with Kyle was the stark reality that most professionals still don’t understand how hiring works. Many believe that applying through job boards is the most effective strategy, when in fact, a vast majority of hires come from networking and recruiter outreach. Recruiters often find candidates on LinkedIn rather than waiting for applications to roll in. This underscores the importance of maintaining an optimized LinkedIn profile, actively engaging in professional communities, and leveraging personal networks. A strong digital presence isn’t optional—it’s essential. 


Final Thoughts: Taking Control of Your Career 


The job market of 2025 is complex, unpredictable, and evolving rapidly. Whatever your situation as a corporate professional - job hunting, managing teams and projects, changing careers, or seeking a promotion - the key to success lies in adaptability, strategic networking, and a deep understanding of industry trends. Corporate professionals can no longer afford to be passive in their careers. Whether it's negotiating return-to-office policies, embracing AI, or assessing corporate DEI commitments, the most successful job seekers will be those who take control of their narrative and approach their careers with intention. 


For those who feel overwhelmed by these shifts, the good news is that support is available. Working with a career coach, engaging with peer networks, and staying informed are all critical steps in navigating today’s job market with confidence.  


For more expert career insights, follow Dr Kyle Elliot and me on LinkedIn and subscribe to The Job Hunting Podcast. Consider taking it a step further and investing in your career by working with experienced coaches like us. We would love to work with you and accelerate your success. The future of work belongs to those who are prepared—let’s make sure you are one of them. 

About Our Guest, Kyle Elliott

About the Host, Renata Bernarde

Timestamps to Guide Your Listening

Transcript of this Episode


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