#177 Ted Neward, The Interview Industrial Complex, Part 1
Mar 12, 2025
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Ted Neward, a seasoned veteran of the tech industry with over 30 years of experience, shares insights from his 2022 job search. He discusses the challenges of a market shaped by the COVID tech bubble and the importance of personalized resumes. Ted emphasizes the need for transparency in recruitment and the pitfalls of automated tracking systems, while also reflecting on the significance of networking and adaptability in a shifting job landscape. His blend of personal anecdotes and industry wisdom makes this conversation a must-listen for job seekers.
Ted Neward highlights the significance of personal networking over automated application processes, which often lead to minimal success in job searching.
He emphasizes the challenges posed by Applicant Tracking Systems and the necessity of customizing resumes to fit specific job families for better outcomes.
Deep dives
Ted Neward's Career Journey and Background
Ted Neward has over 30 years of experience in the technology sector, beginning his journey with an Apple II Plus in 1978. He has held various roles such as CTO, director, architect, and engineering manager, showcasing his versatility in the field. Neward reflects on his tenure at Rocket Mortgage, where he led teams before a strategic reorganization led to his departure, emphasizing a mutual decision rather than a negative separation. His background highlights a deep-rooted passion for technology, underscoring his extensive involvement in the industry and the evolution of his career.
Challenges in Job Searching During Fluctuating Markets
Neward discusses the complexities of his job search during a period of significant market shifts, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. The demand for roles in technology experienced dramatic changes, influenced by a surge in hiring during the pandemic followed by a wave of layoffs as companies recalibrated. He addresses the frustration with recruiters who typically prefer narrow qualifications, which can hinder the prospects of candidates with diverse skills. This broad skill set often results in being categorized as 'overqualified' or 'not a fit,' creating barriers in the search for a suitable position.
Networking and Personalized Approaches to Job Applications
Neward emphasizes the importance of networking over using automated application processes like LinkedIn's Easy Apply, which often yield little success. He stresses the value of personal connections, utilizing his network to stay top of mind and secure opportunities through referrals. By posting content on LinkedIn and engaging with others, Neward was able to generate leads that sparked meaningful conversations about job openings. His proactive approach included maintaining a blog and engaging with industry professionals, which proved more fruitful than traditional application methods.
The Reality of Applicant Tracking Systems
Neward shares insights on the challenges posed by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) in the job application process, noting that many resumes are filtered out without human review. He acknowledges that while customizing resumes can be beneficial, it often requires focused tailoring towards specific job families, rather than every open position. The emphasis is placed on the need for a more personal connection in the hiring process, as automated systems tend to miss nuanced qualifications and experiences. He concludes that blending networking efforts with strategic resume crafting helps navigate the complexities of modern job searching.
Ted Neward tells me about his job search that started in 2022. Part 1 of a 2 parter.
Details
Who he is, what he did. The job search begins. Companies are looking for "passionate" employees with specific skill sets. The job market in 2022. The COVID tech bubble. How he searched; false starts, near misses. Writing a book on the side. You need luck too. Customized resumes for roles. Applicant tracking systems.