my 4-Step strategy for the modern Job hunting

 I recently caught up with a former colleague of mine. Let’s call him Sama(no no , it's not real Sama)

 a few weeks ago, Sama found himself on the wrong side of a "restructure." 😓😢 Between the rapid adoption of AI and a shift toward offshoring for cost-cutting, his role was made redundant.

it’s a story I’m hearing more often lately. 

We sat down to look at his next move. job market has changed, and the old way of "Update CV -> Hit Apply -> Wait" is no longer a winning formula. do companies even hire for real?

Using AI as our research partner, we built a proactive framework to get him back in the game. I call it the Cold, Hot, Long, Short strategy.

if you’re feeling the pressure of a tightening market, here is how we broke it down:

1. Cold Step (The Proactive Reach)

Most people wait for a LinkedIn/Seek notification. by then, you’re competing with 500 other applicants.

  • The Move: We used AI to identify companies that just raised funding or expanded their product lines but haven't posted roles yet.

  • The Action: Sama reached out to hiring managers directly with a "value-first" message. He wasn't asking for a job; he was highlighting a problem he could solve for them.

  • Goal: Apply before the role is even advertised.

2. Hot Step (The Inside Track)

A referral is worth more than a decade of experience on paper.

  • The Move: We mapped out his "warm" network—people who actually know his work ethic.

  • The Action: Instead of a generic "Are you hiring?", Sama asked for 15-minute "coffee chats" (virtual or local) to understand the internal challenges of their current teams.

  • Goal: Get a recommendation so your CV jumps to the top of the pile.

3. Long Step (The Strategic Bet)

This is about playing the long game. It’s for the company you really want to work for in 6 to 12 months.

  • The Move: We looked at the tech stacks and "pain points" of top-tier firms.

  • The Action: Sama started tailoring his upskilling—specifically in AI implementation—to match what those companies will need next year.

  • Goal: By the time they are ready to hire, you aren't just a candidate; you are the obvious solution.

4. Short Step (The Foot in the Door)

Sometimes, the best way to get to the top floor is to take the side entrance.

  • The Move: Looking for contract roles, maternity cover, or specific project-based consultancies.

  • The Action: Sam targeted "short-term" roles in high-growth organisations.

  • Goal: Once you are inside the building and proving your value, it is much easier to transition into a permanent, senior position.

AI and offshoring are changing the landscape, but they don't have to be the end of the road. They are just a signal that we need to change our "moves."

Sama stopped being a "job seeker" and started being a "solution provider."

which of these four moves are you making today?

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