Find Your Dream Job: Insider Tips for Finding Work, Advancing your Career, and Loving Your Job

Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16414&preview=true)

Networking is one of the most effective ways to find your next job. According to Find Your Dream Job guest Nikki Schutte, most opportunities don’t come from job boards — they come through people you know and the connections they can introduce you to. Referrals won’t guarantee you a job, but they often get your application noticed and can lead to interviews you might not get otherwise.

In this episode, Nikki explains why employers value personal connections, how professional associations can help you grow your network, and why showing up in person makes such a difference. She also shares practical tips for job seekers who feel hesitant about networking, from starting small at local events to focusing on authentic conversations. By building relationships over time, you’ll uncover hidden opportunities and make your job search far more effective.

About Our Guest:



Nikki Schutte is the executive director of the Portland Human Resources Management Association.


Resources in This Episode:



Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn


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Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16359&preview=true)

Knowing your values is one of the most important steps you can take in your job search. According to Find Your Dream Job guest Dr. Lucas Moe, your values shape not only the kind of work you’ll enjoy but also the environments where you can do your best work. When you’re clear about what matters most, it’s easier to spot opportunities that fit — and just as importantly, to walk away from roles that don’t.

In this episode, Dr. Moe explains how to use the Schwartz Human Value Survey to uncover your top values, why focusing on your top three helps define your non-negotiables, and how self-knowledge can guide better career decisions. He also shares how knowing yourself helps you ask better questions in interviews, make more informed career decisions, and ultimately build a career that feels both meaningful and sustainable.

About Our Guest:



Dr. Lucas Moe is the associate director for career services at the University of Washington’s Information School. 


Resources in This Episode:



Connect with Dr. Moe on LinkedIn


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Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16357&preview=true) 

Generative AI makes it easy to create resumes and cover letters, but it also makes your application sound just like everyone else’s. Find Your Dream Job guest Gina Riley says relying on AI alone won’t help you stand out in today’s market. Instead, she encourages job seekers to focus on storytelling, showing the results you’ve achieved and the unique value you bring to employers.

Gina shares how to use AI wisely, not as a shortcut, but as a support tool for shaping stronger applications and tailoring them to specific roles. She explains why mass applications rarely pay off, why thoughtful customization matters, and why networking and referrals remain important. By building relationships, highlighting results, and positioning yourself as the obvious solution to an employer’s problem, you’ll stand out in ways that AI-generated materials never can.



About Our Guest:



Gina Riley is an executive career strategist and the author 




Check out Gina’s book, Qualified Isn't Enough: Develop Your Story. Land the Interview. Win the Job.




Resources in This Episode:



Connect with Gina on LinkedIn


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Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16301&preview=true)

Taking time away from work can feel risky, but Find Your Dream Job guest Katrina McGhee says a career break is often a smart move. She explains why intentional time off — whether planned or unexpected — can help you recover from burnout, realign with your values, or pursue long-delayed life goals. Katrina also shares why employers are increasingly supportive of breaks and how you can position yours as an advantage in your job search.

Katrina recommends starting with a clear purpose statement and designing your break around what you most want from the experience. She covers practical steps, such as setting goals, planning finances, and allowing space for both decompression and reentry. With the right approach, Katrina says, a career break won’t hold you back. It can renew your energy, build your confidence, and set you up for long-term success.

About Our Guest:



Katrina McGhee is a sabbatical coach who helps professionals turn a career break into a strategic advantage. 

Check out Katrina’s book, Taking A Career Break For Dummies



Resources in This Episode:

Connect with Katrina on LinkedIn
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Check out the podcast on Macslist here: (https://www.macslist.org/?post_type=podcasts&p=16299&preview=true) 

Perfectionism can quietly hold your job search back. According to Find Your Dream Job guest Tanya Romaniuk, one of the biggest challenges is waiting until everything feels “just right” before taking action. Tanya highlights common pitfalls perfectionists face, including overthinking applications, delaying outreach, and letting fear prevent progress. Her advice is to start small, take imperfect actions, and focus on progress over polish.

Tanya suggests flipping the script on your inner critic, practicing interview prep with friends or mentors, and building confidence through experience rather than waiting to feel 100% ready. She also stresses the importance of recognizing when your standards are realistic versus unhelpful. With the right approach, Tanya says that practicing imperfection will build your confidence and skills, and also get you closer to the work that truly fits you.

About Our Guest:



Tanya Romaniuk is a career counselor at Portland State University. 


Resources in This Episode:



Connect with Tanya on LinkedIn


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