“The job market is quiet.”
“But I’ve applied to so many roles.”
“I had a great chat with someone last week… but then nothing.”
Sound familiar?
If you’re smirking, or nodding your head, you’re not alone.
After supporting thousands of job seekers at senior levels, I can tell you this is one of the most common career crossroads: You’ve done “something”but it’s not yet leading to something else.
Todays blog is about that space inbetween: how to turn 1 good conversation into 5 new ones, with purpose, not pushiness!
The invisible wall after a good call!
You’ve finally had a great chat. Maybe it was with an attendee to ATS. Maybe a previous colleague, or it’s online on Linkedin on with someone you admire. Or better yet, maybe it was with an interviewer or hiring manager. They say kind things. They offer encouragement. But then… they don’t offer you a job.
….And you don’t want to chase!
You don’t want to feel like you’re begging.
So you pause, hang back a bit.
And wait.
And of course, the silence feels even bigger….
Here’s my coaching reframe:
· The purpose of most of those conversations was never to ‘get a job’.
· It was to open a door. Your job now is to keep momentum going.
Momentum over magic
Looking for a job at a senior level is rarely linear. What I mean is, you don’t apply > get an interview > and an offer > and you’re done. Unfortunately.
It’s more like: chat > reflect > be seen > offer help or add value > build trust > get a referral > have an internal advocate or Sponsor > build out a business case maybe > then get your offer.
And maybe seeing it written down like this, will help put this into context and to keep your motivation. Because your job is not to ‘close the deal’ in one conversation: it’s to keep the momentum going.
Here’s how: Curious follow-ups that create new conversations
If you’re feeling stuck after a good chat, think about opened ended questions:
“I’m broadening my thinking and exploring different directions. Is there anyone else you think I should speak to?“
“You mentioned [insert challenge or topic] in our chat / your speaking session. I found that fascinating. I’d love to learn how others are navigating it. Who else in your circle comes to mind, who might be open to sharing more insights?”
“Are there any forums yod recommend I join?”
“I’ve been reflecting on our chat and how my [strength] could apply in [context]. Would you mind if I ran that by X person you know?”
Or a lighter touch would be ““Really enjoyed our chat. If anyone else pops into mind that you think I’d click with, I’d be grateful for a warm intro.”
Each one is a moment of curiosity. And in your follow-up, don’t forget to give back. Even something simple like: “I came across this article after our chat and thought of you.”
Keeps you top of mind, without asking for anything in return.
Strengths still matter - even after the call/meet up
Don’t let your strengths hide just because the conversation is over. Mention a project that aligns with what the person shared. Reiterate the value you’re known for so that you are your own advocate:
“My previous team always described me as the calm in the chaos-especially during [situation]. If something similar comes up in your world, I’d love to help.” I promise, this isn’t bragging. It’s anchoring.
1 Connection = 5 Possibilities
Every great conversation can lead to:
· A direct referral
· Another conversation
· A LinkedIn comment that boosts your visibility
· A lead on an unadvertised role
· A new advocate who mentions your name in the right room
· But only if you keep the energy alive.
Final Thought - So remember: “It’s not who you know. It’s who knows you.” So… who’s going to remember you this week?
In our next live coaching webinar, bring a recent event experience, message, or rejection email - and we’ll talk through it. Let’s transform what you already have into forward momentum. Join me: Coaching Clinic: Turn Rejections Into Action (a full on Q&A)
📍Hosted by JobsInAdTech
And if you want individual coaching and support in building your job search strategy or your value add - let’s connect. 👉 Book your 15-minute coaching discovery call here
Samantha Barron, TA Director | Certified Career Coach | Host of “Activate Your Advocacy Circle” at Career Coach