Growing Your Professional Network vs Submitting Resumes

"I need to perfect my resume before I network." A Senior MD just rescheduled a reach out call with a network connection to wordsmith bullet points. For the third time. After 25+ years in financial services and watching hundreds of executive searches, I've seen this pattern: The leaders obsessing over resume formatting are the ones who stay on the market longest. Because here's what they don't understand: At the executive level, your resume is just expensive paper if you're not working these 7 factors that actually land offers: 1. Your Network Depth ➝ The MD role you want was filled 3 months before it was "open." By someone who had coffee with the decision maker last quarter. Your perfect resume was never even reviewed. 2. Executive Presence ➝ I've watched brilliant executives with flawless resumes lose to candidates who owned the room. Your gravitas can't be captured in bullet points. 3. Strategic Intelligence ➝ Spray-and-pray applications scream desperation. The executives who land premier roles? They target 5 companies and play the long game. 4. Leadership Impact Stories ➝ Your resume says "increased revenue 40%." But can you walk the board through exactly how you turned around that failing division? Context makes metrics meaningful. 5. Professional Reputation ➝ What do three people say when asked about you? That consensus carries more weight than any resume. And yes, they will ask. 6. Culture & Leadership Alignment ➝ Technical fit gets you considered. Cultural alignment gets you hired. I've seen perfect-on-paper executives rejected because their leadership style clashed with the culture. 7. Interview Excellence ➝ Your ability to go peer-to-peer with C-suite executives determines success. They're evaluating your judgment, not reading your resume during the conversation. The harsh truth? That executive wordsmithing her resume while her network goes cold? She's competing for roles that the strategic executives already locked down over coffee three months ago. Your resume is a receipt for what you've done. Your network is your access to what's next. Choose accordingly. 💭 What's your take - how much time do you spend on resume perfection vs. relationship building? ------------ ♻️ Share with an executive who needs this perspective ➕ Follow Courtney Intersimone for more truth about executive career success

𝗜𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗝𝗼𝗯 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗗𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗟𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗜𝘁? The hidden cost of relying on traditional job applications is more significant than you might think. You're investing precious time and energy only to face: • Endless rejections from automated systems filtering out your resume. • Getting lost in a sea of applicants without ever hearing back. • Missing out on job opportunities that never even make it to job boards. 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: You're wasting valuable resources by putting all your hope in a broken process that isn't designed to work in your favor. There's a different way. It's not easy, but it's doable. Consider this: • 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀 with people in your target industry gets you closer to real opportunities. • 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 bypasses the resume pile. • Personal referrals dramatically increase your chances of landing interviews. It's not about perfecting your resume for ATS systems. It's about creating direct connections with decision-makers. A successful job search is built through consistent networking and personalized outreach. I've taught 100+ job seekers how to skip the application pile and get interviews through referrals. 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗲𝘅𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲, 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗺𝘆 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗰𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝟴+ 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵𝘀. 𝗔𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄—𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗮 𝗷𝗼𝗯 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿—𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻 𝟱 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝘀 𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰. So, what's one step you're taking today to build your network instead of applying aimlessly? Share your strategies in the comments below!

My husband had to lay off his entire team, knowing his own role was next. Then he landed a better one. A few months into the pandemic, my husband's company had to shut its doors. First, he let his team go, then he was let go himself. He came to me, seeking the best way to present his career story in his resume. We framed his leadership during both good times (company growth) and bad times (company closure). He shared how he helped the company grow and expand over the prior two years, and how he assisted others in their transitions at the end. Within 4 weeks of completing his new resume, he landed a new job. But it wasn't just because of the resume. He paired the resume with intentional outreach and networking. He didn't just apply for jobs; he also built momentum, stayed visible, and eventually created a champion inside one of his target companies who believed in his fit before the first interview even happened. Yes, the resume opened doors. But it was the combination of tools and strategy that enabled him to cross the threshold. It’s a reminder I share often with job seekers, especially with senior professionals: Landing your next role isn’t just about having a great resume. And it’s not just about having a strong network. It’s about how the two work together. Today’s challenging job market demands that your career story be crystal clear, deeply relevant, and easy for decision-makers to champion (think: professional resume and optimized LinkedIn profile). Plus, you need to do more than basic online applications. You need tools that reflect your value AND a strategy that gets that value in front of the right people, at the right time. That’s where the magic happens. Invest in both. #resume #executiveresume #jobsearch #executiveedgebyAdrienne

Stop mass-applying to job boards. Do this instead. By the numbers (and why “Apply” rarely works): • An average corporate opening gets ~250 CVs; only 4–6 (~2%) reach an interview, and 1 is hired. • Remote jobs are few, but overloaded with applicants: in 2024, they were ~8.3% of postings yet drew ~43% of applications. • A growing share of ads are “ghost jobs”, never filled or not real. Recent analyses estimate the rate at ~18–22%; other surveys indicate that around 40% of companies posted at least one fake listing in 2024. • Remote postings have declined since 2022, tightening competition further. What actually works: - Personal Branding: publish proof of skills (mini case studies, before/after metrics, open-source or portfolio links). - Networking & Referrals: referrals consistently convert far above cold applications. Playbook (1 hour/week): - Post one insight with a metric from your work. - Comment thoughtfully on 5 posts from hiring managers in your niche. - DM 3 warm contacts with a helpful resource (no asks). - Join 1 niche community and answer questions weekly. The real opportunities lie in the hidden job market, where roles are filled through referrals, recommendations, and existing relationships before they’re ever posted online. Start building your personal brand and your network today. That’s how you step into the hidden job market where the best jobs are waiting for you. What worked better for you, applying on job boards or networking? Sources: The Wall Street Journal, Guardian, Glassdoor, LinkedIn Economic Graph, Indeed, Jobvite

Stop Chasing Job Postings and Start Building Relationships. Let’s get real for a moment. The traditional job search is broken, especially for product managers aiming to rise to the top. If your job search strategy is focused on endlessly scrolling through job boards, tweaking your resume for every application, and hoping for a response, you’re playing a losing game. It's time to stop throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what sticks. In the modern job market, especially at the executive level, jobs don’t come from applying to countless postings. They come from knowing the right people, having the right conversations, and being at the right place and time. The best opportunities aren’t always advertised—they’re created and approached through relationships. Think about this: When was the last time a job posting perfectly matched your dream role? One that matches your skills and is aligned with your career goals, values, and lifestyle? Those roles are rare and highly competitive. They won’t come to you because you sent in a resume. They come to you because you’ve built a network that knows your worth and advocates for you. Building relationships is not just a “nice-to-have” in your career—it’s essential. When I founded Intentional Product Manager, it was to change how product managers approach their careers. I wanted to help talented professionals like you stop relying on luck and start taking control. The shift from chasing job postings to building strategic relationships is transformative. It’s about stepping off the treadmill of traditional job hunting and into a powerful space where opportunities find you. So, be intentional with your interactions. Whether it’s a LinkedIn message, an email, or a coffee chat, show up as your best self. Be clear about what you bring, and articulate how your skills can help others succeed. Stay consistent. Building relationships is not a one-time task. It’s a continuous effort. Make networking a regular part of your professional life, not just something you do when you’re in job search mode. Tell your story. This is not just about what you do but who you are and what drives you. People remember stories, not resumes. Share the challenges you've overcome, the wins that define you, and the vision you have for the future. When you shift your focus from submitting applications to cultivating relationships, you change the game. You move from being just another resume in a pile to being a known and trusted entity in your field. You position yourself as a leader, someone who is connected, informed, and worth knowing. Your dream job is out there, but it won’t come to you through an online application job board. It will come when you’ve built a network that knows who you are and what you stand for.

Stop Obsessing Over ATS-Friendly Resumes. Do This Instead. You’re tweaking your resume for every job posting. Adding keywords. Formatting for the ATS. Hoping it magically lands in front of a recruiter. Reality check: So is everyone else. The real game changer? Networking. If you’re spending hours perfecting your resume instead of making real connections, you’re playing the wrong game. Resumes don’t get jobs. People do. And the best way to get your resume in front of decision-makers is through internal referrals. How to Network Your Way Into a Job 1- Identify Key People – Find hiring managers, team leads, and employees at your target company. LinkedIn is your best friend. 2- Engage Before You Ask – Comment on their posts, share relevant insights, and build rapport. No one likes a cold “Can you refer me?” message. 3- Reach Out with Purpose – Send a personalized message. Something like: “Hi [Name], I came across your profile while researching [Company] and loved your take on [recent post or project]. I’d love to hear your insights on the company culture and any advice on how to stand out in the hiring process.” 4- Ask for Guidance, Not a Job – Let them offer to help. If they see potential, they’ll refer you themselves. 5- Leverage Informational Interviews – A quick 15-minute chat can turn into an internal champion who pushes your resume forward. Why This Works HR sees hundreds of resumes for each role. But when an employee vouches for you, your resume jumps to the top of the pile, even if it isn’t “perfectly optimized.” Instead of playing the ATS lottery, start playing the people game. It’s not about who has the best resume. It’s about who has the right connections. Thoughts? Drop a comment if you’ve landed a job through networking!

I asked 50 people who landed jobs in this brutal market how they did it. The results shocked me. Only 17% got their position through online applications. The rest? Personal connections. But here's the twist: 73% of those connections were made WITHIN 6 MONTHS of their job search. Translation: They weren't relying on old contacts. They were actively building new relationships. Here's exactly how they did it: 1. They abandoned generic "coffee chat" requests Instead: "I noticed you worked on [specific project]. I'm working on something similar and would love your perspective on [specific challenge]." 2. They stopped asking for jobs Instead: They asked for advice, insights, and introductions to others in the field. 3. They researched BEFORE reaching out Instead of basic LinkedIn stalking, they read the person's content, referenced their work, and came prepared with thoughtful questions. 4. They followed up with VALUE After the conversation, they sent articles, ideas, or introductions that helped the other person (not just a "thank you"). 5. They maintained genuine connections Regular check-ins with updates and no immediate "ask" built relationships that eventually led to referrals. This isn't just "networking" – it's relationship building. And it's the difference between sending 200 applications into the void or having someone personally hand your resume to the hiring manager. What's your most successful networking technique? Share below! #JobSearchStrategy #NetworkingTips #CareerAdvice #JobHunting #HiringSecrets #ResumeWriting → Struggling with what to say when reaching out to industry professionals? DM me "TEMPLATES" for my free guide with 10 proven outreach messages that get responses (worth $140). No strings attached.

98% of job seekers are doing it wrong. Are you one of them? If you’re spending hours submitting online applications, tailoring resumes, and waiting for a response that never comes—you’re not alone. But there’s a better way. Here’s the truth: most jobs on corporate websites are either already filled or fiercely competitive. Meanwhile, 80% of positions are filled through networking—the hidden job market. Instead of waiting for a job to be listed, go after the opportunities you want. Use LinkedIn to build professional relationships with hiring managers, decision-makers, and HR professionals in your target companies. Send personalized connection requests, set up casual meetings, and position yourself as a proactive candidate. Job seekers who network strategically don’t rely on luck—they create their opportunities. Don’t wait for January or "the right time." Start building those connections today. *Pro tip: Invest 80%+ of your job search time in networking, not just applying. The results will speak for themselves. If this resonates with you, share your thoughts below or pass it along to someone who needs it. And stay tuned for more tips on how to transform your job search into a proactive and successful journey! #JobSearch #CareerAdvice #Networking #LinkedIn #WinAgain

The Harsh Truth of The Cybersecurity Job Marrket. Your skills alone won’t get you hired. The job market has shifted. In cybersecurity and tech as a whole the competition is fiercer than ever, and applications are becoming less effective by the day. Why? Because we’ve entered the referral era. In 2025, your network is your most valuable asset. AI screens resumes, recruiters are more selective, and hiring managers lean on trusted recommendations. The jobs you want aren’t on job boards—they’re in the hands of your connections. Think about it: Over half of my audience tells me their job offers came from referrals, not applications. The best opportunities often don’t even make it to the job market. Here’s the hard truth: If you’re not actively building relationships and showcasing your expertise, you’re falling behind. Cybersecurity professionals, IT specialists, and anyone in tech this is your wake-up call. Build your network. Post your insights. Engage with decision-makers and current employees at your desired company. In 2025, your skills will get you noticed, but your network will get you hired. What are you doing today to secure your future opportunities? Let’s talk. #Cybersecurity #TechCareers #Networking #ProfessionalGrowth #ITjobs

We want to cling to the idea of finding the fastest way to get the job done, and we are so convinced that the 'fastest' way to apply for jobs, which is just submitting our resume to an online application, is what will get you hired! But this is where you are highly mistaken. This is a big mistake, and it's holding back your career. We've been misled into thinking that submitting resumes like there's no tomorrow is the key to getting hired. Well, it's time to wake up. This approach is not only misguided but is actively putting the brakes on your career launch. Life sciences professionals like you are armed with knowledge and have a burning desire to make a difference. The sad truth is that the very strategy you thought would fast-track your career – the mindless submission of resumes online – is probably the reason you're stuck. Why the harsh reality check? Because life sciences demand more than a generic resume dumped into an online void. It requires a personalized and smart approach that goes beyond the superficial act of clicking 'submit.' It's about forming connections, having real conversations, and showcasing what truly makes you stand out in the world of science and innovation. Let's be crystal clear: the journey from academia to a successful career isn't as simple as hitting the apply button. It's about time we ditch the misguided belief because submitting resumes mindlessly is probably leaving you frustrated and stuck. This is what you need to do instead: 1. Research the companies where you would like to work to stay focused 2. Collect their JDs to understand what they are looking for in a candidate 3. Curate your LinkedIn profile accordingly 4. Start building connections with people in these companies and beyond 5. Start building your visibility on LinkedIn by showcasing your expertise through your profile 5. Start having conversations with people in these companies It is these steps that are going to get you hired and not just submitting resumes online! .......................... DM me if you are looking for guidance to build your career in life sciences. #careerdevelopment #lifesciencesjobs #lifescienceindustry #lifesciencesrecruitment #careermentoring