It’s the question we all know is coming. Sometimes it’s asked in the first screening call. Other times it shows up on the job application form. Either way, it’s important to answer it with confidence and clarity. But here’s the thing >> Salary isn’t just a number. It reflects: - The value of your skills and experience - The responsibilities you’ll take on - The cost of living and work arrangement - The market demand for your role - And yes, your own goals and needs So, How Much Am I Looking For? You can use this template below to answer it: "Right now, I’m looking for a total compensation in the range of xxxxx, depending on: - The scope of the role - The team and growth opportunities - Benefits (healthcare, remote options, bonuses, etc.) - Company culture and mission This range is based on market research, my years of experience, and the skills I bring to the table. I’m also open to discussing it further if there’s mutual interest because a good match goes beyond just numbers." So many job seekers hesitate to talk about salary. I get it!! We don’t want to price ourselves out or sell ourselves short. But transparency helps everyone. Being honest about salary early on saves time, sets expectations, and leads to better conversations for both candidates and employers. If you’re job hunting >> do you share your salary expectations early, or wait until later?

Let’s face it. Just having “#OpenToWork” on your profile isn’t always enough. If you really want to get noticed, you need to take the first step. And one of the most effective ways? A direct message to a recruiter. But here’s the catch: Recruiters receive hundreds of messages. The difference between being ignored or being contacted? >>> How you craft your message. So, what Makes a Message Stand Out? >> Here’s what a great message to a recruiter includes: 1. Be Clear & PoliteStart with a brief intro >> Don’t jump straight into “Please hire me.” Show that you’ve done your homework. 2. Mention What You’re Looking For >> Be specific, avoid vague phrases like “any opportunity will do.”Clarity = Confidence. 3. Mention Why You’re Reaching Out to Them. >> This is what most candidates skip. It’s about relevance. Show why your message is not random. 4. Keep It Short and Easy to Read >> Recruiters are busy. Your message should be under 80–100 words max. Bonus points if you attach your resume or link to your portfolio/GitHub. Final Tips - Don’t mass-message, tailor each one. - Always connect first, then follow up with a message. - Be patient. Not all recruiters are actively hiring every day. Have you ever messaged a recruiter before? and what worked or didn’t work for you?

I get this question a lot, from job seekers, friends, and even experienced professionals. The honest answer? >>> Yes. Sending out one generic resume to dozens of companies might feel efficient, but it often leads to silence. No interviews. No callbacks. Here’s why personalizing your CV can make all the difference: 1. Every Job Is Unique Even if two roles have the same title, the expectations, tools, KPIs, and team culture can be very different. A one-size-fits-all resume won’t capture those nuances. Tip: Read the job description like a checklist. Then mirror the relevant parts in your CV. 2. Recruiters Spend Seconds, Not Minutes On average, recruiters scan a CV in 6–8 seconds before deciding if you move forward. A tailored CV helps your relevant skills and experiences pop instantly. Tip: Use the same keywords they use in the job post. Make it easy for them to say, “This person fits.” 3. It Shows You’re Intentional When you personalize, it shows that you didn’t just click “Easy Apply” out of habit. You took the time to understand the role—and you’re serious about it. Tip: Write a strong professional summary that speaks directly to that specific role. The Result?Higher response rates. More interviews. Better alignment with the roles you land. Yes, it takes more time. But job hunting isn’t about sending more applications. It’s about sending better ones. So let me ask you: - Do you tailor your CV for each role? - What part of the process is hardest for you?

Let’s be honest, job hunting is not just sending resumes. It’s waking up hopeful, then getting ghosted. It’s prepping for interviews that never lead to offers. It’s refreshing your inbox more than you’d like to admit. But it’s also… ✔ Reconnecting with your network ✔ Getting clearer about what you really want ✔ Learning to advocate for yourself Behind every application is effort, intention, and a whole lot of resilience. One thing I’ve realized: you’re not just looking for a job, you’re looking for the right fit. And that takes patience, clarity, and a whole lot of resilience. So if you’re in this stage too, know that you’re not alone. Some days will be quiet. Some will feel like progress. Both count!! What is one piece of advice you wish you had when you started?

Your resume isn’t just a list of responsibilities. It’s a story of impact. One of the biggest missed opportunities in most resumes? - Too many duties. - Not enough results. Instead of saying >> Handled social media accounts. Change to >> Grew Instagram engagement by 45% in 3 months. Why does it matter? - Measurable achievements help hiring managers see your value, not just your activity. - Numbers show that you understand goals, performance, and results. - They make your resume stand out, fast. Quantify whenever possible: - % of growth - revenue saved or generated - processes improved - time reduced - targets exceeded 💡 Remember: If you can measure it, you can impress with it. So, take a second look at your resume. Your impact is worth sharing. Go back to your resume and tell the story only you can tell. Are you telling your story or just listing your job?