6 Tips on How to Get a Job You Love
Since the layoffs started last fall, I’ve met many talented people looking for work. I empathize deeply. I’ve been laid off twice—in 2012 and 2014. Before that, I had to prove I could work in the corporate world after years in academia and at my family’s newspaper.
In 2011, I met Paul Anderson, founder of Prolango, a career search firm. I invested in his job-search boot camp and followed the Prolango Method, which emphasizes intense networking. Two months later, I landed my first six-figure job.
After that experience, I became convinced: applying through online job portals rarely works. Despite my Cambridge PhD and solid experience at two tech companies, I only got a few calls after months of applying. Networking—not online portals—has always made the difference.
Over time, I’ve developed a mix of job search strategies inspired by Prolango and refined by my own experience. Here are six practical tips to help you land a job you love.
1. Start with People You Already Know
Before reaching out to strangers, tap into your existing network. Let people who already trust you know you’re looking for a new opportunity. I like to send a personalized update email—part newsletter, part check-in—that includes both personal and professional updates.
Share highlights and low points honestly. You might say, “I just finished grad school and am looking for a role in nonprofit communications,” or “I was recently laid off and am open to new marketing positions.” This makes your email feel authentic.
Use a mail-merge app like Yet Another Mail Merge (for Gmail) or Outlook’s built-in option to personalize each message. Add merge fields for first names and a brief personal note (“How’s your daughter doing? Last time we talked, she was heading to college!”). That touch of care makes people more likely to respond.
2. Volunteer to Build Skills and Expand Your Network
Volunteering is a powerful way to gain new skills while meeting potential mentors. I made career pivots from academia to journalism to tech to nonprofit leadership largely through volunteering.
When I joined the National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP), I volunteered to lead marketing—even though I had just learned social media. That experience helped our Seattle chapter earn the #1 spot for marketing nationwide.
Small nonprofits are especially open to skill-based volunteers. Volunteering offers a safe space to learn by doing—and it gives you tangible accomplishments to discuss in job interviews later.
3. Conduct Informational Interviews
Informational interviews are one of the most effective job search tools. They let you learn from professionals in your target industry while also making a positive impression.
Paul Anderson taught me this formula:
- If you want a job in three months, reconnect with five people you already know each week.
- For a job in two months, have five informational interviews weekly with new contacts.
- For a job in one month, aim for 10 new conversations per week.
When I followed this advice, I landed my six-figure tech job within eight weeks. Remember, the goal isn’t to ask for a job—it’s to build connections and show curiosity. Always end with, “Is there anyone else you recommend I talk to?”
4. Create a Short, Shareable Bio
Make it easy for others to introduce you. Write a short, 4-to-6 sentence professional bio in third person that includes your skills, achievements, and what kind of role you’re seeking. Personalize the last sentence for the person you’re asking to connect you.
For example:
Kim Doe is an experienced lawyer who has worked at [Companies] for the past [Years]. She specializes in [Specialties] and has been recognized for [Awards or Achievements]. She is now exploring a transition into [New Field] and would love to talk with you about [Specific Topics].
This simple tool makes introductions smoother and ensures your key points come across clearly.
5. Find Job-Seeking Accountability Partners
Job hunting can feel isolating. That’s why accountability partners are invaluable. At Prolango, we reported weekly on how many people we contacted, what we learned, and what progress we made.
These partners don’t have to be in your industry. The key is to keep one another motivated, celebrate small wins, and share leads. When others are listening for opportunities for you—and you do the same for them—you multiply your reach.
6. Write a Proposal That Shows Your Value
One of the most effective strategies I’ve used is writing a proposal to show why I’m the right fit for a job, even if no formal position exists yet.
After an informational interview, identify the company’s needs and write a 3-5 page proposal. Include:
- Why you’re passionate about the company and role
- How your skills meet their needs
- A short SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)
- A timeline for what you’d accomplish in your first 3-6 months
- Your expected compensation and benefits
This shows initiative, strategy, and clarity—qualities every hiring manager values. I’ve both received and written proposals like this, and in both cases, they sealed the deal.
Keep Growing, Even When You’re Not Job Hunting
Even though I now run my own company, I still send out update emails every 12–18 months and volunteer regularly. Staying connected, learning new skills, and practicing curiosity keep your professional network strong—and your opportunities open.
Which of these tips resonates most with you? You can also watch short video versions of this blog post along with other job search tips on our YouTube channel. Please subscribe to get alerted when that video comes out.
Prolango’s founder, Paul Anderson, still offers career coaching. You can reach out to him on LinkedIn.
