Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

209. Find Your Fit, Find Your Focus - Catalyze Your Career

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Jun 12, 2025

Andrew Seaman, Senior Managing Editor for Jobs at LinkedIn, shares insights on navigating the job market with intention. He emphasizes that job searching starts with curiosity, not just a polished résumé. Seaman advocates for slowing down, asking questions, and engaging in meaningful conversations. He introduces a four-step framework for effective job hunting, highlighting the role of AI tools and strategic storytelling. Discover how to redefine success and actively manage your career while showcasing your unique value in a competitive landscape.

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INSIGHT

Competitive Job Market Insight

The job market is highly competitive with hiring rates fluctuating and some companies cautious about hiring.
AI and economic shifts add uncertainty, increasing job application competition by 45% on LinkedIn.

ADVICE

Be Curious and Use AI Search

Be genuinely curious and use your network to identify jobs; avoid blunt requests for jobs.
Use LinkedIn's new AI natural language search for more natural and refined job identification.

ADVICE

Investigate Companies Deeply

Investigate companies through conversations with current employees to get real insights.
Use AI to analyze job descriptions to identify necessary skills and traits for the role.

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How to turn curiosity, clarity, and AI into your most powerful job search tools.

Job search isn’t just about landing your next role—it’s about understanding who you are and how you want to show up in the world. According to Andrew Seaman, Senior Managing Editor for Jobs and Career Development at LinkedIn, that process begins with curiosity, not certainty. “People assume they need to apply to dozens of jobs with a perfect résumé,” he explains. “But the best applications are rooted in self-awareness and strategy—not spray-and-pray.”

Instead of rushing to the next opportunity, Seaman encourages job seekers to slow down, ask better questions, and prioritize conversations over checklists. From informational interviews to profile updates, clarity is key—knowing what you want and telling a story that shows why you’re the right fit. With tools like LinkedIn’s Job Match and natural-language job search, candidates can now assess how they align with a role—and where they can grow. “It’s not just about being qualified,” Seaman says. “It’s about showing the value you bring.”

In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Seaman joins host Matt Abrahams for our Catalyze Your Career miniseries to share how to job search with intention. Using Matt’s “Four I’s” framework—identifying, investigating, initiating contact, and interviewing—they explore how strategic storytelling, thoughtful networking, and AI tools can help you stand out in a crowded market.

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Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction
(02:29) - What’s Changing in Job Search
(03:49) - Identifying Roles with Curiosity
(06:49) - Investigating Companies & Roles
(08:13) - Initiating Contact Effectively
(11:29) - Crafting a Strong Narrative
(12:41) - How Job Match Can Help
(16:01) - Strategic vs. Shotgun Approach
(21:00) - Best Career Advice Received
(23:09) - Career Regrets & Lessons
(24:38) - Conclusion

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