Had a coaching call yesterday where I had to give one of my clients a serious reality check. She's been spiraling that she is so close to an offer but feels stressed even with 3 interviews lined up, and I could see her getting stuck in victim mode. So I asked her this question that I ask all my clients: "Would Karan Johar make a Bollywood movie about your problem?" She paused... and then started laughing. Because the answer was obviously NO. Her "problem" wasn't dramatic enough for a movie plot. Which means it's not actually a problem - it's just a temporary situation that requires focus and strategy. 🧠 Why Your Brain Sabotages Your Job Search Here's what I see happening with 90% of job searchers: Your brain focuses on: - ❌ The recruiter who didn't respond - ❌ The rejection from that one company - ❌ How long it's taking - ❌ All the things going "wrong" Successful people focus on: - ✅ The interviews they DID get - ✅ The progress they're making - ✅ The skills they're building - ✅ The opportunities coming in Same circumstances. Different focus. Completely different results. ⏰ The 50/50 Rule That Actually Gets You Hired Stop doing busy work in your job search. Here's how to split your time: 50% Interview Prep (This is your needle mover) - Practice your stories - Perfect your STAR method responses - Record yourself and listen back - Do mock interviews 25% Applications (This gets you in the door) - Apply to targeted roles daily - Optimize your resume for each application - Follow up strategically 25% Strategic Networking (This opens hidden opportunities) - Message hiring managers directly - Connect with recruiters in your space - Reach out to alumni and industry contacts Most people flip this and wonder why they're not getting offers. Interview prep is what closes deals, not more applications. 📱 The LinkedIn Message That Gets 8/30 Responses One of my other clients sent 30 LinkedIn messages and got 8 responses in 24 hours. Here's her exact formula:

Hi everyone 👋, My name is Martha. I just transitioned into Data Analytics from Mechanical Engineering. I am based in NYC. I am looking to have a stable schedule so that I can bond with my daughter and time for myself on the weekends and still make as much as I would have made as an Engineer. I am looking forward to connecting with everyone.