How to Get a Job: A Practical Guide

How do people actually land jobs—especially good, impactful ones?

There’s a ton of career advice out there… some helpful, some outdated, and some outright contradictory. It’s hard to know where to start, especially if you’re early in your career. That’s why we created this guide: to nail down the basics of job hunting and provide actionable advice on how to approach it.

For those who already have a general sense of the kind of work you want to do and how it aligns with your values, this guide will help you navigate the job search process step by step. We’ll cover everything from identifying opportunities to crafting strong applications, tackling interviews, and negotiating offers.

If you’re still exploring career paths or thinking through the social impact of different options, we recommend starting with our core advice series first. But if you’re ready to land your next role, let’s dive in.

Finding jobs: Search with strategy 

Consider a wide range of options

It’s natural to start your search with a specific job title or industry in mind, especially if you have a clear idea of what you want. But taking time to look beyond your initial focus can lead to great opportunities that align with your skills and goals—even if they weren’t on your radar at first.

• Think beyond job titles. Job titles vary wildly between companies—what one organization calls a “Content Strategist” might be a “PR Specialist” or “Media Relations Manager” elsewhere. Instead of fixating on one title, try searching for similar roles with different names. You can even use tools like ChatGPT to generate related job titles based on your skills.
• Focus on transferable skills. Your job search doesn’t have to be limited by your past titles or even industry. If you’ve been the go-to person for organizing projects, for example, roles in operations or project management could be a great fit—even if they weren’t what you originally had in mind. Looking at transferable skills like communication, problem-solving, and taking initiative can help open up more opportunities.
• Reverse-search companies you admire. Instead of just looking at job boards, start with organizations you admire. Check their career pages to see what roles they’re hiring for—you might find an opportunity that aligns with your skills in an unexpected way.
• Explore job descriptions proactively. Even if you’re not ready to apply yet, reading job descriptions for roles that interest you can give you insight into common skills and qualifications. You might discover a job title you hadn’t considered or spot gaps in your experience that you can work on filling.

Being open-minded and strategic in your search can help you land a role that truly fits—not just the first one that matches your initial criteria.

Use job boards as a jumping-off point

Job boards are a great place to start looking and applying for specific opportunities, especially when you’re exploring different industries or roles. They can give you a sense of what’s out there and help you discover positions you might not have considered. Here are a few boards and similar places worth looking at:

• Probably Good’s impact-focused job board. Our job board provides a curated list of impactful roles across several fields and causes, including global health, climate change, animal welfare, and more.
• Industry- or cause-specific boards. Many niche job boards cater to specific industries or causes. They often list jobs that don’t appear on major platforms, giving you access to more tailored opportunities with less competition. Do some research to find the top job boards in your industry or cause area—or check out this list.
• Large job boards. Popular boards like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, or others can sometimes be a good place to start finding opportunities. However, we advise against applying only through these sites as many relevant (especially more impact-oriented) jobs may not be posted there.
• University career-service boards. If you’re a student or recent grad, these can connect you with entry-level roles tailored to your skills and education.
• Organization newsletters, social media, and career pages. These aren’t traditional job boards, but they’re great resources to keep up with—especially if you’re focused on a specific organization or company. Many organizations share new openings on their own platforms before listing them on larger job boards. Some opportunities might even remain exclusive to these channels, making them easy to miss elsewhere.

To get the most out of job boards, it helps to focus on platforms that align with your field and career goals. Niche boards and company career pages often feature unique, up-to-date opportunities you won’t see on larger, more general sites. This can save you time and help you zero in on roles that are a better match. Large job boards also tend to have other issues, like excessive numbers of applications, outdated postings, and even “ghost jobs”.

With all that in mind, it’s best to think of job boards as just one part of your job-search toolkit. Pairing them with more proactive approaches we’ll cover below—like building connections and creating opportunities for yourself—can give you a much better chance of landing the right role.

Build a network you’ll actually use

A lot of jobs are filled through connections, referrals, and word-of-mouth. Yes, you can land a job without a big network, but investing time in building connections now can open doors in ways you may not expect down the road.

To make networking feel less daunting, think of it as planting seeds. You’re not looking for instant results; you’re starting conversations and letting relationships grow over time.

Here’s how to start:

Keep it authentic. Networking doesn’t have to be about schmoozing at events—it’s about building real relationships with people you find inspiring or whose work you admire. Approach it with curiosity: start conversations, ask thoughtful questions about their experiences, and share your own goals and interests. When you’re not forcing it, it’s easier to form meaningful connections and feel more motivated to do so.

Start with people you know. Your existing connections—friends, family, classmates, mentors—are a great place to start. Keep them updated on your career goals, and when you are ready to reach out, you can send a simple message like: 

Hi [Name], it’s been a while—how have you been? I’m currently exploring opportunities in [field/industry] and thought of you because of your experience in this area. If you’re open to it, I’d love to hear your insights or get any advice you might have. Let me know if there’s a good time to chat!

Show up to things that interest you. One of the best ways to build your network is simply by being in the right places. Attend events, workshops, or gatherings related to your interests—whether that’s industry conferences, in-person or online field-based meetups, or niche networking spaces like community Slack groups and Discord servers. These spaces create opportunities for “targeted serendipity,” where you naturally meet like-minded people, learn about new organizations, and even hear about job openings. If formal networking isn’t your thing, focus on having casual conversations with those who share your interests. Even a single good connection can open unexpected doors.

Try (thoughtful) cold outreach. Reaching out to someone you don’t know well can feel intimidating, but when done thoughtfully, it can be very effective. The key is to make your message specific, respectful of their time, and easy to respond to. Start by researching the person you’re contacting—look into their work, projects, or expertise—and write a message that shows genuine interest. Reference something specific they’ve done, clearly state the topic you’d like to discuss, and provide just enough context for them to understand why you’re reaching out. Here are a few jumping off points (but be sure to personalize for your specific situation/request):

Hi [Name], I admire your career in [field] and recently came across your work on [specific project]. I’m exploring opportunities in [related field] and would really appreciate your perspective on how to best build experience in this area. Specifically, I’d love to know what you think are the most valuable first steps to take—whether that’s a certain type of internship, skill, or project.

If you’re requesting a conversation, be clear about the topic and your intent. For example:

Hi [Name], thanks so much for sharing your insights on [topic] in your recent [article/presentation]. I’m currently tackling [specific challenge] and believe your experience in [related field] would be incredibly valuable. I’d love to get your perspective on [specific question or process]. If you have 20 minutes in the next few weeks, I’d really appreciate your thoughts.

In case it’s helpful, here’s a bit more context: [Add a concise paragraph with specific details about your background or experience. Be clear about the challenge or decision you’re facing, and highlight any relevant skills, goals, or projects. The more focused and concrete you can be, the easier it will be for them to understand how they can help—and the more likely they’ll feel motivated to do so].

Frame your request as seeking advice (not a job). Rather than directly asking for a job, consider starting by seeking advice. Reaching out with genuine curiosity—whether about someone’s career path, their organization, or the field in general—can lead to more natural and engaging conversations. This approach also makes it easier for the other person to respond, since advice is lower-pressure than evaluating a potential hire. If the conversation goes well and there’s a mutual fit, it may naturally lead to job opportunities down the line.

Ask for introductions. If someone in your network knows someone you’d like to connect with and you have a good enough relationship with them, you can try asking for an introduction. Personal referrals typically have a much higher success rate than cold outreach because they come with a built-in level of trust. When requesting an introduction, be sure to keep your message short, clear, and respectful of the other person’s time. Clearly explain why you’re reaching out, how the connection could be mutually beneficial, and make it easy for them to help without imposing a lot of effort. 

Utilize your network. Building connections is one thing, but leveraging them is just as important when searching for opportunities. Review the LinkedIn or social connections of people you know to see if they’re linked to relevant industries or roles. Ask close connections to brainstorm career directions or recommend specific roles or workplaces. Reach out to those who can offer strong referrals, even if your relationship isn’t purely professional. 

Your network is one of the strongest tools for finding good opportunities, yet it’s often underutilized. Networking (at its best) is mutually beneficial. By reaching out, you’re not just asking for help—you’re also building relationships that can benefit others in return. 

Open doors to new opportunities

Applying for jobs isn’t the only way to land one. Taking a proactive, inbound approach (where you position yourself in a way that attracts opportunities to come to you) can often open more doors than traditional applications. 

As your career grows, opportunities will begin to come to you naturally, but you can start building this momentum early on, even before you’re actively job hunting. The key is to make it easier for others to find you, recognize your potential, and reach out when a relevant opportunity arises. Keep in mind, this is more of a long-term strategy, so it’s something to build gradually rather than something that will pay off immediately.

Build a visible presence

Instead of just hunting down job openings, set yourself up so the right people can find you. If a hiring manager Googles your name, will they see a blank profile or a clear picture of what you bring to the table? It doesn’t have to be elaborate—a simple personal website or an updated LinkedIn profile can help relevant people like recruiters, hiring managers, or industry professionals find you. Focus on showcasing your skills, experience, and aspirations—incorporating relevant keywords from job descriptions to ensure your profile aligns with the roles you’re targeting.

If you’re unsure how to present yourself, look at the profiles of people a few steps ahead in your field—those whose careers you admire or who have roles you’re aiming for. See how they describe their work, what tone they use, and how they balance humility with showcasing their achievements. This isn’t about copying them—it’s about learning what makes a profile compelling.

Show your work publicly

A great way to attract opportunities is by sharing your work publicly. Whether it’s a portfolio, a blog, or a project you’ve completed, showing what you’ve done makes it easier for potential employers or collaborators to find you. You really never know who might stumble across your work and see something that impresses or sticks with them. Here’s a few field-specific ways to approach this:

• In design, you could develop a public portfolio that showcases mock-ups, freelance projects, or even concept redesigns to demonstrate your creativity and problem-solving skills.
• In tech, building small apps, contributing to open-source projects, or creating tools for your community can highlight your practical abilities.
• In policy or research, publishing your own analyses, starting a blog, or even engaging with established researchers on sites like Twitter can help establish your expertise and demonstrate your interest.
• In operations, you could create case studies of projects you’ve managed, such as improving workflows, organizing events, or streamlining systems. For example, you might write a blog post about how you planned and executed a community event, detailing the logistics, challenges, and results.
• In writing/communications, keeping a blog or regular newsletter can showcase your ability to craft engaging content, build an audience, and communicate ideas effectively. It’s a chance to highlight your expertise, share insights on topics you care about, and demonstrate consistency and creativity. 

Sharing your work publicly won’t always lead to opportunities falling into your lap, but it can be helpful in other ways too. It makes it easier to show off what you’ve done when you meet new people, and it keeps you on the radar of those who might refer you for a role. This is especially useful during the application process. When hiring managers are sorting through hundreds of resumes, having a link to something that gives a real sense of who you are and what you can do could be the thing that sets you apart and helps you move to the next stage. And, if you’re just starting out, try thinking about the kind of work you want to do and how you could create something that proves you could do it. This could be a work in progress, but the goal is to have some easy-to-see evidence of your competence or willingness to take initiative.

Participate in communities 

A great way to find and land opportunities is by spending time in spaces where interesting things are happening. That doesn’t mean forcing yourself into awkward networking events—it means finding communities where people in your field naturally connect.

Start by looking for places where people are already having conversations: Slack groups, Discord servers, LinkedIn groups, niche forums, or even email newsletters that host meetups. A quick search for “[your field] + community” can lead to group chats, online events, or even in-person gatherings. The key is to not just passively observe or lurk but make an effort to engage. Ask questions, contribute when you can, and be curious. People remember real enthusiasm more than polished elevator pitches.

Explore mentorship opportunities

If diving into a big community feels overwhelming, mentorship programs can be a more structured way to meet people in your field. Programs like. Magnify Mentoring connect job seekers with experienced professionals, and some industries have their own mentorship networks (like this one for alternative proteins). Courses can also double as networking opportunities. Platforms like Coursera, edX, or LinkedIn Learning offer a lot of free opportunities to deepen your knowledge, and many of these courses include active discussion forums where you can engage with both instructors and others taking the course.

If you’re a student, use that to your advantage! Student groups are a surprisingly effective way to break into a field. Joining a club, working on a research project, or writing a thesis on a relevant topic gives you an easy excuse to reach out to professionals. People are much more likely to respond if you’re asking for insight on a project rather than just job advice. Plus, student-run conferences and workshops often have direct connections to industry professionals.

Getting jobs

When it comes to actually applying for a job, think of your application and interview as a marketing pitch for yourself. You’re trying to make a strong case for why you specifically should get the role (or at the very least, an interview).

Apply to a lot of roles

Applying to jobs is often a numbers game, especially for niche or competitive roles. Even if you’re a strong candidate, a lot of factors are outside your control. The employer might be looking for an incredibly specific skill or experience, or your application might simply arrive on a busy day. That’s why applying to a range of roles that genuinely match your skills and experience is key to improving your odds.

That said, applying for jobs takes time and energy, so it’s crucial to get strategic. Spamming dozens of generic applications might feel productive in the moment, but it’s rarely the best use of your resources. On the flip side, spending hours perfecting just one or two applications is probably ineffective. The sweet spot is to focus on roles that align well with your skills, then to create thoughtful, tailored applications without overthinking every detail.

It’s also worth keeping in mind that jobs with high application numbers might not be as competitive as they seem. For example, LinkedIn might show that a job has 1,000 applicants, but many of them likely clicked “Apply” without following through. While the exact numbers vary, most typically receive tens to hundreds of applications—yet many of those applicants don’t meet the qualifications or take the time to tailor their resumes. The real competition is often a much smaller pool of strong candidates. 

Finally, don’t be afraid to aim high. Applying to stretch roles—positions that excite you but feel just beyond your current experience—can increase your chances of landing a job that truly challenges and advances your career. If you only apply for roles where you’re 100% confident, you’re likely aiming too low. A mix of realistic and ambitious applications gives you the best shot at a great opportunity.

Think about the hiring manager’s pov

It’s easy to focus solely on why you’re great, but what really matters is showing why you’re a great fit for this specific role. Imagine what a hiring manager (going through dozens or hundreds of applications) would need to see to pass you forward. Yes, you want to ensure that your skills, experience, and values align with the organization’s needs, but also that you’re genuinely interested in the role and could be a uniquely good fit for the job.

Show genuine interest in the role and company. Hiring managers can easily tell whether you’ve thoughtfully considered why this particular organization appeals to you or if you’re just applying indiscriminately. Somewhere in your application, make sure to communicate why you’re genuinely drawn to their mission, values, or projects. This could be mentioning something specific about their work that resonates with you or connecting your own experience and goals to what they’re doing. 

Proactively address any concerns they might have. Think about any potential questions or concerns a hiring manager might have and address them early in your application. If you’re switching fields, explain why you’re making the transition and how your transferable skills set you up for success in the new role. If there are gaps in your resume, don’t leave them unexplained. Share how you’ve grown professionally or personally during that time, whether it’s through freelance work, volunteer experiences, further education, or skills you gained. Similarly, if you’re overqualified, explain why you’re excited about the role despite your advanced qualifications. Maybe you’re seeking better work-life balance or a specific aspect of the role aligns with your long-term goals. 

By addressing concerns upfront, you make it easier for the hiring manager to see that your experience, skills, and motivations match the role—saving them time and effort. The more you can preemptively clarify doubts, the more confident they’ll be in moving your application forward.

Polish (and tailor) your resume

Hiring managers often skim through resumes quickly—sometimes in as little as 30 seconds—and they can form a strong impression in the first 5-10 seconds. With this in mind, your resume should immediately show why you’re a great fit for the role. This means making sure it’s easy to scan and directly highlights your relevant experience and qualifications. It’s also important to note that AI tools are increasingly used to filter resumes before a human even sees them. This means your application should be tailored to match the job description, using clear, specific language to highlight relevant skills and qualifications.

Here’s a few tips to build a strong base resume:

• Prioritize readability. Use bullet points, bold key achievements, and keep descriptions concise. Stick to clear fonts and a logical structure to ensure your resume is easy to skim. It’s also best to steer away from overly complex formats or colors that might distract from your content.
• Keep it chronological. List your work experience in reverse chronological order, with clear summaries of your accomplishments. This gives a solid overview of your career progression and helps prevent questions about gaps.
• Highlight meaningful results. Employers care most about real evidence of your capabilities—especially significant outcomes. Instead of just listing responsibilities, focus on tangible achievements that demonstrate your impact. Whenever possible, use numbers to make your results stand out (e.g., “Led a team of 5 to increase project efficiency by 30%”). The important thing is to emphasize outcomes that are non-trivial and impressive in context. If you can highlight a major success, an independent initiative, or a clear example of making a difference, that’s what will truly help you stand out. The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can help structure these examples effectively.
• Include relevant unofficial experience. If you’re early in your career, list projects, freelancing, or side gigs that demonstrate initiative and relevant skills.
• Optimize for applicant tracking systems (ATS). Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are a type of software that helps employers (typically larger companies) filter through hundreds of applications by scanning resumes for keywords, qualifications, and specific formatting. It’s good to keep your resume straightforward, use simple formatting with clear section headings, and integrate keywords from the job description (when relevant). 

Once you have a solid base resume, the next step is tailoring it for specific job applications. Tailoring your resume doesn’t mean rewriting everything—it’s about making small, targeted adjustments to highlight how your skills match the job description. This increases your chances of standing out when employers skim through resumes quickly.

• Match the job description. Highlight the key skills and qualifications from the job listing to show how your experience aligns with what they’re looking for.
• Make small adjustments. Focus on relevant tweaks rather than overhauling the entire document. Adjust job titles or responsibilities slightly to match the language used in the job description, or reorder bullet points to emphasize your most relevant achievements.
• Avoid keyword stuffing. It can be helpful to match the phrasing from the job description, but don’t overdo it. If certain terms don’t apply to your experience, adding them to your resume will be obvious to the hiring manager. Focus on using keywords that genuinely reflect your experience and qualifications without forcing irrelevant terms.
• Check country-specific norms: If you’re applying to remote or global jobs, it’s worth checking their specific norms. In the U.S. and U.K., for example, resumes should not include a photo due to anti-discrimination policies, while in Germany and many European countries, including a professional photo is common. The length also differs: in the U.S., resumes are typically one page (or two for extensive experience), while two pages are more standard in Europe. Some countries expect details like marital status or date of birth, while others discourage them. If you’re applying internationally, it’s helpful to research the standard format for that country—resources like Europass can help with European CV formats.

Create a compelling cover letter

Cover letters and application questions are your opportunity to connect the dots between your experience and the role, while showing why you’re genuinely excited about the position. Here’s a few things to keep in mind:

• Offer new information. Use your cover letter or application responses to go beyond your resume by focusing on the most relevant aspects of your background. Your aim is to create a cohesive narrative that ties your experiences directly to the role and organization, highlighting how your skills, values, and goals align with their needs. Introduce specific details or examples that demonstrate your qualifications and enthusiasm—essentially, make the best case possible!
• Show genuine interest. Highlight specific aspects of the role or organization that resonate with you to demonstrate you’ve done your research.
• Be specific. Use clear, detailed examples (e.g., “reduced processing time by 20%”) rather than vague statements about your competency.
• Be concise. Aim direct, specific answers to application questions, and keep cover letters to about 3-5 short paragraphs.
• Address potential concerns. As mentioned earlier, it’s always good to provide brief context for resume gaps or explain why you’re interested despite being overqualified. Try to ease any hesitation they might have in passing you to the next stage.
• Use AI wisely. AI tools can help draft ideas and get your thoughts together, but you want to be careful to not come across as inauthentic—ensure the final letter is personal and true to your experience.
• Strike a balance between professionalism and authenticity. Employers are often looking for someone who not only has the skills but is also enjoyable to work with. It’s best to keep a professional tone, steering clear of gimmicks and exaggerated claims. Instead, focus on honest, specific examples that convey confidence without arrogance and interest without insincerity.

Practice for interviews

Interviews can definitely feel high-pressure, and it’s normal to feel that way, but it’s helpful to remember that interviews are also a two-way conversation to determine if you and the employer are a good match. The goal is to come across as competent for the role, nice to work with, and genuinely excited about the opportunity. As Alison Green from Ask a Manager puts it: “Be your normal self, not your job-seeking self. Stop feeling like the employer is the source of all power in the world. Don’t be deferential or suck up. Act like you are both businesspeople contemplating a relationship with each other, because you are.”

Here are some tips for improving your interview skills:

• Understand what type of interview you’re going into. Interviews can take many forms, such as traditional interviews (focused on your background and skills), case-study interviews (problem-solving exercises), or technical interviews (testing specialized skills, like coding). It can ease your nerves to have a clear idea of what you’re going into. And if you’re unsure about the process, it’s completely okay—and sometimes even beneficial—to ask clarifying questions. You might ask, “What sort of interview is this?” or “How many stages are in the process?” You can also inquire about the role itself, such as, “When would be a good time to learn more about the specific role?” Remember, you’re not expected to know exactly how their process works unless it’s clearly outlined somewhere.
• Practice common interview questions aloud. One of the best ways to prepare is by simulating the interview environment. Anticipating questions and practicing your responses helps you feel more confident and natural. Saying your answers out loud, even if it feels awkward, builds muscle memory and helps you present yourself clearly. While you can’t prepare for everything, there are several questions you’re likely to encounter, such as “Tell me about a time you resolved a conflict” or “What are your strengths for this role?” If you’re not experienced or comfortable with interviews, it’s especially important to do at least one or two dry runs. Practicing with someone else—whether a career services coach, a friend, or a family member—can help you refine your answers and feel more confident going into the real thing.
• Research the company and figure out how you fit. Take the time to research the company and role thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects to explain why you’re excited about this specific job. Reflect on how your values and career goals align with theirs, and think about how you can contribute to their success. Finally, review the job description in detail—select a few key skills and imagine how you can connect your own experience to what they’re looking for.
• Don’t just give the answer—explain your reasoning. Beyond gaining explicit information, employers are often trying to figure out how you think and communicate. Share your thought process concisely as you work through a problem. Even if your final answer isn’t perfect, explaining your reasoning can earn you “partial credit” and demonstrate your ability to approach challenges logically.
• Treat interviews as a two-way conversation. While it’s your chance to showcase your fit for the role, it’s equally an opportunity to evaluate the company and see if it aligns with your goals. This mindset can make the process feel less nerve-wracking—you’re not just being judged; you’re also assessing whether this is the right place for you. When asked if you have questions, use this moment to dig deeper into the role, team, and culture. For example, you might ask what a typical day looks like, what challenges someone in this position might face, or how success is measured.
• Be honest about your needs and values. While you want to put your best foot forward, it’s also important to be upfront about deal-breakers for you—whether it’s a workplace culture, specific job requirements, or personal values. By sharing your true views and values, you’ll be more likely to get accepted into jobs that are a great fit, and rejected from ones that aren’t. Instead of trying to mold yourself into a “perfect” employee for any company, embrace the opportunity to express what matters to you. While you might face some rejections from companies that aren’t a good fit, being genuine increases your chances of landing in an environment you actually align with.

Once you get an offer

Getting a job offer feels great—and it is! But before you say yes, it’s worth taking this final opportunity to ensure you get the best offer.

How to negotiate

Negotiating can feel intimidating or awkward, but it’s important to remember that it’s an expected part of the process—on both sides. The person you’re negotiating with has likely seen many candidates go through this, so it’s not a strange or uncomfortable situation for them. In fact, negotiating with enthusiasm and confidence can make a big difference in how they view you. 

Worst case, if the conversation doesn’t lead to a better offer, you can always accept the original offer or ask for a slight adjustment. Companies generally don’t rescind offers just because you asked for more, especially if they’ve already decided you’re a valuable addition. And best case, putting in the effort now can make a huge difference in your long-term earnings and job satisfaction, especially if you want to donate more money to effective charities.

Here’s some tips on how to approach it:

• Do your homework first: Research salary ranges for roles similar to yours in your industry and location. Use sites like Glassdoor and LinkedIn, or even talk to current or former employees to understand the pay structure and culture of the company. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel during the negotiation.
• Start with enthusiasm: It might seem like holding back enthusiasm gives you a better chance to negotiate, but in reality, the opposite is true. Employers want to hire people who are passionate about the role, not just checking off boxes. Saying something like, “I’m really excited about this opportunity—it aligns so well with my goals and skills. After reviewing the offer, I’d love to discuss the salary to make sure we’re aligned.” This shows you’re not just interested, but you’re invested in making the role work, which can open the door to a better offer—even if your salary expectations are a bit higher.
• Let them go first: If they ask about your salary expectations, it’s okay to ask them to provide their range first. You might say, “I’d love to hear your range to make sure we’re aligned.” This approach gives you a better sense of what they’re willing to offer and avoids prematurely committing to a number. If they push for a figure, feel free to share a salary that aligns with your research and needs. For instance, “Based on my research and considering my experience, I think a salary around [$X] makes sense.” Aiming a little higher than your ideal is fine, but make sure it’s a number you feel comfortable with.
• Make it about what you need to make the role work: Rather than explaining why you “deserve” a higher salary, focus on what you need to make the offer feasible for you. You might say, “I’m really excited about this opportunity and confident I can contribute to the team. To move forward, I’d need a salary closer to [$X] to make it work for me. I’m eager to make this role a priority, and I’m hoping we can find a way to make the numbers align.” This keeps the focus on your genuine enthusiasm for the role and ensures the conversation is about what you need to make the offer realistic.
• Consider the full package: While salary is often the main focus, there are many other factors that can be negotiated—such as additional vacation time, flexible working hours, remote work options, or professional development opportunities. These perks can add significant value to the overall offer.
• Leverage an alternative offer (if you have one): If you have a credible alternative offer from another organization, use it as leverage. Large companies, in particular, often respond well to a counter-offer. Even smaller organizations might not follow a formal process, but they’re still likely to improve their offer if they see you’re in demand elsewhere. For example, you could say, “I’m really excited about this opportunity, but I have another offer that provides [$X] more per month. If you could match or beat that, I’d love to move forward with you.”

Compare multiple offers

It’s great (and lucky) to receive multiple job offers you’re excited about, but this makes it all the more important to figure out the best decision for you. Here’s a quick checklist to assess and compare your options: 

• Impact of the role: Assess how promising and impactful the opportunity is by using tools like the SELF framework—a simple tool that considers the significance of the problem you’re working on, the efficacy of the solution, the leverage that the role has to make progress or contribute to change, and the fit of your personal skills and motivations.
• Day-to-day tasks: Think beyond the job description. What will you actually do every day? Which role excites you and aligns with your strengths without risking burnout? Ask about typical projects or first-six-month goals if you’re unsure. Our career profiles provide ideas for testing your personal fit for the paths we’ve covered.
• Growth opportunities: Promotions can be great, but they’re not the only metric for growth. Which role lets you develop skills you’re excited about? Is there an opportunity to gain a certain kind of career capital that could be helpful in the future? Which job’s team or manager is more likely to actively support your learning? Look for specifics like training budgets, mentorship programs, or opportunities to take on challenging projects.
• Cultural fit: Rather than relying on vague notions of “culture,” dig into specifics. Are meetings run efficiently? How does the team handle stress or conflict? If flexibility is important to you, which company genuinely embraces it versus just tolerating it? If you’re able to speak to people inside the organization (outside of those responsible for hiring), this is a great way to find out more about an organization’s culture. For larger organizations, sites like Glassdoor and even sub-forums in Reddit can also give an insight.
• Practical considerations: Beyond the role itself, think about the practical aspects of each offer, including salary, benefits, work-life balance, and flexibility. Does one offer better compensation or perks, like remote work, more vacation time, or a better healthcare plan? Consider the lifestyle fit of each role—will the hours and location work for you, or are there opportunities for a more flexible schedule that better suits your personal life?

Overcoming challenges

Job searching can be frustrating, especially when you’re applying to dozens of roles without hearing back. It helps to remember that hiring is competitive—most publicly posted roles receive tens to hundreds of applications, with only a few candidates (6-7 on average) making it to interviews. Even highly qualified applicants face rejection due to sheer numbers, not because they lack ability or value. While that doesn’t make rejection any less frustrating, it’s important to remember: it’s not a reflection of your worth or abilities.

Here are a few ways to stay grounded when the job search starts to feel discouraging:

• Remember imposter syndrome is (extremely) common. It’s normal to feel like you don’t measure up, especially when applying for roles that stretch your comfort zone. Imposter syndrome can creep in when you’re taking risks, learning new skills, or stepping into unfamiliar territory. But remember, everyone experiences it at some point, even highly successful individuals (75% of women in top executive roles have felt it). Overcoming it is a process, not a switch you can flip. It’s easier said than done to ‘disconnect your self-worth from outcomes,’ but you can start taking small steps—like focusing on what you can learn from challenges rather than seeing them as failures. Talk to trusted colleagues or mentors about it; sometimes, just voicing those doubts can help you gain perspective. And as daunting as it might feel, taking on things that scare you—whether that’s applying for a role you feel unqualified for or taking on a new skill—is one way to dismantle the power imposter syndrome has on you.
• Adjust your strategy. If you’re consistently applying but not landing interviews, it might be time to take a step back and reassess your approach. Review the job postings in your field and see if there are recurring skills or qualifications you’re missing that could be worth the investment. If so, find quick ways to address the gap, whether it’s through a course, a side project, or updating your resume to better highlight the experience you already have. Small adjustments to your strategy can make a big difference in how you present yourself to potential employers.
• Structure your process to avoid burnout. The job search process can quickly become overwhelming, leading to burnout if you’re not careful. Instead of focusing solely on the number of applications you submit, try prioritizing quality over quantity. Tailor your applications for roles that genuinely excite you, and streamline your approach for others. Think of each application as an experiment—if you’re not seeing results, adjust your method rather than just pushing harder. Regularly evaluate what’s working, refine your strategy, and focus your energy on areas that will give you the best returns.

Moving forward

A clear strategy can make all the difference in landing the right role. Many candidates jump into applications without stepping back to refine their approach—by taking the time to plan, you’re already giving yourself an edge.

Now, it’s about putting this plan into motion. Keep exploring, stay persistent, and stay true to what you want from your next job. Our job board is a great resource to help you find opportunities that align with your skills and values. And if you need some extra support, our free 1-1 advising service can help you navigate the process and think through your career options. This is a journey—and with each step, you’re getting closer to finding a career that’s both good for you and good for the world.