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Discover how meaningful relationship-building can help you land your dream job
"Don’t wait for the right opportunity: create it."
Hey Reader,
Have you ever felt like you've hit a ceiling in your career?
You're excelling in your current role, but the growth opportunities seem limited, and you're not sure how to take that next big step.
You're not alone. Many accomplished women in tech find themselves in this golden cage, comfortable yet yearning for more. You deserve a role that challenges and excites you, aligns with your values, and offers true mobility.
This is why I've embedded the concept of "Relate" into my THRIVE framework - to help you find companies and build a meaningful network that is a true cultural and professional match for your goals.
R - Relate
Why "Relate" Matters
Whether you’ve been in the same company for years and feel like there’s no upward mobility or you’re simply eager for a deeper sense of fulfillment, it might be time to consider new opportunities. Relating isn’t about jumping ship at the first option; it’s about strategically connecting with companies and people that align with your values, priorities, and career goals.
There are two main strategies within the Relate concept. The first is to make a proactive list of companies you admire, relate to, and want to work for. As a high achiever, you know what you can bring to the table and this step is about identifying companies that will allow you to reach your true potential. Do your research identifying places where you see a future and where your skills and values align with their mission and culture.
Once you have your list, the next strategy is to focus on meaningful relationship-building. Leverage your existing networks and grow your network by having conversations with peers for referrals and connecting with Hiring Managers and Recruiters to get a foot in the door.
Pro tip: Embodying a ‘give and receive’ mindset will allow you to go beyond traditional networking. This means approaching each interaction with the intent to offer value, whether it's sharing industry insights, providing a useful introduction, or simply offering support. When you give generously, you build trust and rapport, which often leads to opportunities coming your way in return!
Real-Life Impact → Meet Aisha
My client, Aisha, felt comfortable and confident in her job. She received great performance reviews, but she was feeling stagnant. During our work together, we began by focusing on how to apply an authentic ‘give and receive’ mindset in her networking efforts. Aisha narrowed down her target companies, and although there weren’t any open roles at the moment, she connected with hiring managers and recruiters to build a relationship and show her value. Her proactive relationship-building efforts paid off – one of the recruiters actually reached out a couple of weeks later, leading to multiple interviews and an offer!
‘Relate’ is more than just a career strategy; it's a lifelong skill that can enrich your professional and personal life. When you build a network of supportive, like-minded professionals, you create a community that can help you navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and continue to grow.
Stay tuned for more insights and tips on how to elevate your career, including a deep dive into the next steps of the THRIVE method. In our next issue, we’ll explore I - Impress – clearly presenting your value at various interview stages and leaving a lasting impression on all interviewers.
Talk to you soon,
Jenn

P.S. Do you want to break out of your comfort zone, find the ideal cultural fit for your next career move, and learn how to connect with the right people? I specialize in helping high-achieving women in tech adopt a ‘give and receive’ mindset, network strategically, and find roles that truly fit their aspirations. Reply to this email with RELATE to find out how I can help you!