25:04 Lena: Alright, Miles, we've covered a lot of ground here. Let's bring this all together into something practical that our listeners can actually implement. If you're a woman over 50 who's ready to reboot your job search, where do you start?
25:17 Miles: The first thing is to hit pause on the online applications. I know that sounds counterintuitive, but sitting behind a computer screen all day applying to jobs is not a strategy—it's often more of a motivation drain than anything else.
25:29 Lena: So what do you do instead?
25:31 Miles: Start with self-assessment. Take time to really understand your value proposition. What problems do you solve? What results have you consistently delivered? What energizes you? Write this down in one clear sentence that you can use in networking conversations.
25:45 Lena: And then move to networking?
3:17 Miles: Exactly. Networking is by far the most effective job search strategy, especially for experienced professionals. Your network is probably much larger than you realize—former colleagues, industry contacts, even people from volunteer organizations or professional associations.
26:03 Lena: How do you reactivate a network that might have gone dormant?
26:06 Miles: Start with informational interviews. Reach out to people with a message like, "I'm exploring new opportunities in X industry and would love to get your insights on current trends." Most people are happy to share their perspective, especially if you're genuinely interested in learning from their experience.
26:21 Lena: And that feels less transactional than immediately asking for job leads?
2:06 Miles: Right. Plus, you often get better information and more authentic connections. During these conversations, you can share your value proposition and ask who else they'd recommend you speak with.
26:34 Lena: What about your resume and online presence?
26:37 Miles: Update everything simultaneously. Your resume should focus on the past 10-15 years and be optimized for applicant tracking systems with relevant keywords. Your LinkedIn profile should be active and engaging—not just a static resume, but a place where you're sharing industry insights and connecting with people.
26:53 Lena: And make sure your email address doesn't accidentally signal your age?
1:41 Miles: Exactly! Use a Gmail address that's just your name, not something with birth years or outdated email providers. Small details matter when you're trying to avoid unconscious bias.
27:06 Lena: What about skills development? Should that be part of the plan?
2:32 Miles: Absolutely. Take online courses, get certifications, attend industry workshops. This serves multiple purposes—you're actually developing new capabilities, you're demonstrating commitment to lifelong learning, and you're often networking with other professionals in the process.
27:23 Lena: And it gives you current examples to talk about in interviews?
2:06 Miles: Right. Instead of only referencing experience from years ago, you can talk about recent projects, new skills you've developed, or insights you've gained from current learning.
27:35 Lena: What about the job search itself? How do you balance different approaches?
27:38 Miles: Think of it as a portfolio approach. Maybe 30% of your time is spent on networking, 20% on targeted online applications, 20% on skill development, 20% on industry events and volunteering, and 10% on alternative approaches like pro bono work or contract opportunities.
27:55 Lena: So you're not putting all your eggs in one basket?
3:17 Miles: Exactly. And you're staying active and engaged rather than just waiting for responses to online applications. This keeps your energy and motivation higher, which comes through in all your interactions.
28:07 Lena: What about timeline expectations? How long should someone expect this process to take?
28:12 Miles: It varies widely, but the key is to stay consistent and persistent. Set weekly goals—maybe five networking conversations, two industry events, one new skill module. Treat job searching like a part-time job with regular activities and measurable outcomes.
28:26 Lena: And celebrate small wins along the way?
2:32 Miles: Absolutely. Every positive networking conversation, every new connection, every interview invitation is progress. The process can be emotionally challenging, so acknowledging progress helps maintain momentum.
28:39 Lena: What about accountability? Should people find support during this process?
28:43 Miles: Definitely. Whether it's a formal job search group, an accountability partner who's also in transition, or just regular check-ins with a trusted friend, having external support makes a huge difference. Someone who can offer encouragement, share job leads, and provide honest feedback on your approach.
28:58 Lena: And remember that this is ultimately about finding the right fit, not just any job?
7:01 Miles: That's such an important point. At this stage in your career, you have the luxury of being more selective. You're not just trying to get hired—you're trying to find a role where your experience and wisdom will be valued and where you can make a meaningful contribution.