Ah, the mid-to-senior-level job search. A grand adventure through the uncharted wilderness of LinkedIn notifications, coffee chats, and the ever-dreaded applicant tracking system (ATS)—or as I like to call it, the corporate jungle safari.

Let’s grab our metaphorical machetes and safari hats as we explore the terrain!

1. The "What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up?" Paradox

Remember when you were 5, and answering this question was as easy as saying "astronaut" or "firefighter"? Fast-forward 30 years, and now you're standing in front of your mirror asking yourself the same thing, except now it sounds more like, “Do I even like PowerPoint decks?”

Self-reflection is critical, but don’t get stuck in analysis paralysis. Remember: even Tarzan had to swing to a new vine before figuring out where he was headed.

2. The LinkedIn Serengeti

LinkedIn is the watering hole of the corporate jungle. Here, recruiters, job seekers, and professionals congregate, each with their own survival strategy. As a mid-to-senior professional, your challenge is standing out among the herd of profile pictures featuring crossed arms and business casual blazers.

Pro tip: Add some color to your profile—literally and figuratively. Swap the overused buzzwords like “dynamic leader” for action-packed phrases like “revenue-boosting maestro” or “strategy wizard.” And, for the love of all things corporate, don’t let your banner image be just the default blue background. This is your safari—it should look exotic!

3. The Mysterious ATS Beast

The ATS is like the corporate jungle’s Sphinx: a cryptic guardian that decides if you can pass through to the interview stage. It’s not personal; it just doesn't have feelings—or, apparently, a soul.

To outsmart it, learn its language. Keywords are your golden ticket. If the job posting mentions "team synergy" 12 times, you’d better believe your resume should harmonize with that tune.

And remember: if the ATS feels like an insurmountable beast, you can always take the scenic route—via networking.

4. Networking: The Jungle Drum Beat

Networking is the heart of the job-search jungle, and as a mid-to-senior pro, you’ve got an advantage: years of contacts! Dust off your Rolodex—yes, I know it’s been replaced by your smartphone, but the phrase has sentimental value.

When reaching out to old colleagues, keep it casual but clear. Something like, “Hey, remember that time we tackled that impossible deadline together? By the way, know anyone hiring a results-driven [insert your expertise]?”

Pro tip: Always follow up. If someone gives you a lead, treat it like a breadcrumb on the jungle floor—pick it up, follow it, and say thank you.

5. The Interview Arena: Survival of the Wittiest

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the interview round. This is where your seasoned skills as a professional storyteller come into play. Remember: every question is a chance to wow them with tales of your corporate heroism.

When they ask, “What’s your greatest weakness?” don’t fall into the trap of saying “I care too much” (we’ve all seen that Lion King episode before). Instead, embrace your humanity. Something like, “Sometimes I get overly excited about new strategies, but I’ve learned to harness that enthusiasm to bring fresh energy to teams.”

Also, never underestimate the power of humor. Interviews can feel like a staring contest with a panel of stone-faced executives, but a well-placed chuckle can break the ice. Just don’t overdo it—we’re aiming for safari guide, not stand-up comedian.

6. Rejection: The Jungle Mosquito

Rejection stings like a mosquito bite. It’s annoying, but it doesn’t mean you won’t reach your destination. Dust yourself off, slather on some metaphorical bug spray (aka resilience), and keep trekking.

Pro tip: Every rejection is an opportunity to fine-tune your strategy. Ask for feedback when possible, but if the feedback is just “we went with someone else,” imagine they chose Tarzan—because who can compete with someone who swings from vines in a loincloth?

7. Celebrating the Catch

Ah, the moment when you land your dream role. It’s like catching the elusive golden zebra of the corporate jungle. You’ve done it—you’ve conquered the LinkedIn Serengeti, navigated the ATS maze, and emerged victorious in the interview arena.

But don’t forget: every new job is just another leg of the safari. Keep your machete sharp, your network strong, and your sense of humor intact. After all, it’s not just about reaching the destination—it’s about enjoying the ride.

And there you have it, fellow adventurers: your guide to navigating the corporate jungle with a smile. Now go out there and swing for the stars—just don’t forget your bug spray.

Curt Skene
FOUNDER
Career Network Club