Episodes

  • Are You Wasting Time Applying to Jobs That Don’t Exist? How to Spot Fake Job Postings and Protect Your Search đŸ•”ïžâ€â™‚ïž


    In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into a growing problem in the job market: fake job postings. A recent survey by Resume Builder found that nearly 40% of companies posted fake job listings this year. So why, in a year marked by hiring freezes and mass layoffs, do companies continue to list roles they don’t plan to fill? And how can you, as a job seeker, identify which jobs are real and which are just digital ‘ghosts’?


    We'll look at the surprising reasons behind fake job listings, including 'pipeline building,' where companies stockpile rĂ©sumĂ©s for future roles, and how some use these postings to inflate their public image, signaling to investors or clients that they’re thriving. Other companies may post ghost jobs to gauge the talent pool, check market salaries, or even secure their budget, regardless of any real hiring intent. Some reasons are relatively harmless, while others feel outright deceptive.


    More importantly, we’ll break down actionable steps you can take to avoid wasting time on these listings. Chris will share how to conduct a '360° company check,' spot red flags like vague job descriptions, outdated posting dates, or too-good-to-be-true roles, and even leverage your network to verify job openings.

    Whether you're just starting your job search or have been at it for months, learning how to avoid fake job postings can keep your momentum up and help you focus on the real opportunities. Tune in for a complete guide to navigating ghost jobs so you can save time, avoid scams, and land a genuine role faster!


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  • In this episode of the Career Warrior Podcast, we're tackling the top resume challenges that job seekers face today. From getting past the bots to quantifying achievements, I’ll walk you through essential resume tips to help you stand out. I’ll share specific strategies for overcoming each of these common hurdles and making your resume shine.

    Topics Covered:

    Getting Past the Bots: Learn how to optimize keywords so your resume makes it through ATS filters and grabs the attention of hiring managers.Being Concise: Discover effective ways to showcase your most relevant experiences while keeping your resume impactful and to the point.Perfecting Formatting: Tips on choosing an ATS-friendly format that looks polished, professional, and easy to read.Switching Careers: Explore strategies for highlighting transferable skills to make a strong case for career pivots or industry changes.Quantifying Achievements: Understand how to showcase your accomplishments—even if you don’t have hard metrics—by emphasizing key contributions.

    Tune in to get actionable resume advice that will help you navigate these top resume challenges and improve your job search in 2024 and beyond!


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  • Are you using the top LinkedIn keywords to boost your profile in 2024? In this episode, we’ll explore how the right LinkedIn keywords can help you stand out to recruiters. With 87% of recruiters relying on LinkedIn, it’s essential to optimize your profile with the best top keywords for LinkedIn to attract attention in a crowded job market.


    We’ll cover the key categories to focus on, like position titles, location, and skills. Whether you’re in marketing, engineering, or HR, knowing how to leverage these LinkedIn keywords is crucial. For example, adding five or more skills to your profile can increase recruiter messages by up to 33x!


    LinkedIn functions like an applicant tracking system, so it’s vital to know where to place your top LinkedIn keywords—from your headline to your experience section. Learn how to make your profile visible to the right recruiters and land more interviews.


    I’m Chris, founder of Let’s Eat, Grandma, and we help mid to senior-level professionals get noticed. Tune in for practical advice to help you take control of your LinkedIn presence.


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  • We’re diving deep into the story and strategies of someone who chased success relentlessly, only to find that it wasn’t the key to a balanced, meaningful life. My next guest is Mike Gardon, Founder of Rejoin Coaching where he helps achievement-oriented professionals Break corporate dependence and build self-directed lives 


    Mike is a former trader turned entrepreneur, who also holds an MBA in Finance and Entrepreneurship. He has built a career in online media previously holding roles at Money.com, Reviews.com, was Managing Editor at The Simple Dollar. Mike is widely quoted in media including The Huffington Post, Forbes, Business Insider, Yahoo News. Right now, Mike resides in the beautiful Midwest with his wife and 3 young boys, and the family is building their side hustle, Quote Book.

    We’ll explore the journey of breaking free from the corporate grind – and learning how to craft a self-directed, holistic approach to work and life. If you’ve ever wondered how to map out your strengths, run life experiments, or take control of your career on your own terms—this episode is for you.


    Resources

    Get more help on your applications from Let’s Eat, Grandma


    Check out Rejoin Media


    Listen to Career Cloud Radio


    Connect with Michael on LinkedIn


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  • Today I brought on Kerri Twigg, the founder, and operator of Career Stories.

    Through courses and coaching, Kerri helps people use their stories to grow their careers, whether they aim for a “job-job” or running their own business. And, if they’re not sure what kind of work, she helps with that too. 


    She has been helping people find and share their stories with confidence for nearly 20 years, seven in the career management sector. She also supports businesses as they restructure or downsize, and helps support their employees who experience change or job loss. 

    So as you can see, Kerri is going to be just awesome, and this episode is going to really help you out if you’re struggling with integrating personal narratives in your job-hunting strategy!


    Resources:


    Get more help on your applications from Let’s Eat, Grandma


    Grab your own copy of Kerri’s latest book, “The Career Stories Method”


    Reach out to Kerri directly at [email protected]


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  •  In this episode, we dive into the controversial question: should you lie on your resume? Joined by Jonaed Iqbal, founder of NoDegree.com, we explore the tough decisions job seekers face, especially those without a degree.


    While lying may seem tempting, we discuss smarter ways to highlight your strengths. You’ll also hear insights on AI in resumes, whether your LinkedIn should differ from your resume and more. Tune in for honest resume advice that will help you stay true to yourself while standing out in the job market.


    Resources


    Get more help on your applications from Let’s Eat, Grandma


    Jonaed’s social media handles are below:


    Connect with Jonaed on Linkedin


    Check out NoDegreeCareers on Instagram


    Follow Jonaed on Facebook


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    Connect with us, Schedule a call here


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  • We dive into the hot topic of AI resume builders and the critical warnings job seekers need to know before using them. With AI tools becoming increasingly popular, nearly 45% of job seekers are now turning to generative AI to craft their rĂ©sumĂ©s. But is this the best move for your career? 


    I'm Chris Villanueva, CEO and Co-Founder of Let’s Eat, Grandma, I'll unpack the risks associated with AI resume builders and how they might impact your job search. From misleading formats to content inaccuracies, I'll share why your resume still needs a human touch and how to use AI strategically instead of relying on it as a crutch. Don’t miss this insightful discussion on how AI is shaping the future of resume writing and what you need to know to stay ahead.


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  • Today, we’re diving into the secrets of networking success that anyone can use, regardless of their educational background.


    We have a special guest who has cracked the code on building a world-class network without a degree. 


    Jonaed Iqbal is the Founder of NoDegree.com and host of The NoDegree Podcast (200+ episodes) where he interviews people without college degrees and has them share their stories so others can follow in their path. Jonaed is a career coach and professional resume writer has helped over 700 candidates. He has over 300 recommendations at the bottom of his LinkedIn profile and his clients have gotten jobs/interviews at places like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Meta, Spotify, Tesla, TikTok, Disney, and more. He is committed to shattering the stigma that college is the only path to success.


    Get ready to uncover practical tips and real-life stories that will transform your approach to networking and job searching. If you're eager to boost your career and learn strategies that can help you stand out, you won't want to miss this episode. Let's get started!


    Resources


    Get more help on your applications from Let’s Eat, Grandma


    Jonaed’s social media handles are below:


    Connect with Jonaed on Linkedin


    Check out NoDegreeCareers on Instagram


    Follow Jonaed on Facebook


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    Connect with us, Schedule a call here


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  • Today I brought on legendary CWP repeat guest, Maya Grossman. Maya is a Career Coach, 2x VP of marketing, and a best-selling author.


    She spent 15 years in the corporate world growing from an individual contributor to a VP, achieving 10 promotions in 15 years, and working for some of the best companies in the world (Microsoft and Google). 


    Now Maya teaches ambitious professionals how to level up into executive roles, make quantum leaps in their careers and earn high 6 figures, without working harder. 


    Whether you're just starting your professional journey or you've been in the career “matrix” for years, understanding these truths can be a game-changer.


    In 2024: At least 57,172 workers at U.S.-based tech companies have lost their jobs so far in the year.Out of our last clients at Let’s Eat, Grandma: 27.3% of our last 200 clients have been laid off.To read a quote from a top executive in the hiring space “The labor market is 100% changed from two years ago. Employers are holding the cards now.”

    But our message today is the total opposite. It’s to tell you that you do have negotiating leverage. Employers don’t have all the cards. And whatever struggles you’re going through now – is only temporary! 


    This event (recorded live in Austin, TX) was a transformative session designed to help job seekers push past barriers, overcome setbacks, and break into top leadership roles, even if they have been laid off.


    Resources

    Connect with Maya on LinkedIn


    Check out Maya's Website


    Get promoted fast and often, Get this course now


    Connect with Chris on LinkedIn


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    Connect with us, Schedule a call here


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  • In today’s episode, we’ll cover some essential and practical tips for senior job seekers or those applying for upper management positions. We'll discuss:

    How Senior-Level Resumes Are Different: Understand the unique elements that make senior-level resumes stand out.Landing Interviews: Strategies to ensure your resume gets noticed by recruiters and hiring managers.Beyond Experience and Accomplishments: Why solid experience alone isn't enough to secure the job.Overqualification Issues: Why being overqualified can be as detrimental as being underqualified and how to navigate this trap.

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  • Welcome to the Let’s Eat, Grandma Career Warrior Podcast, where our mission is not just to help you land your dream job but to empower you to live your best professional life!

    I’m Chris Villanueva, CEO and Co-Founder of Let’s Eat, Grandma. In this episode, we dive into the pressing issues of today’s job market and provide actionable tips to help you stand out. Whether you’re currently job hunting or preparing for future opportunities, this episode is packed with valuable insights.


    In this episode, we’ll cover:


    1. What’s Going On in the Competitive Job Market? Current layoff trends and job market saturation.

    2. How to Stand Out and Land More Interviews and optimize your resume.

    3. Navigating the Economic Landscape

    4. Building a Strong Professional Network


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  • Join Matt Villanueva, Co-Founder of Let's Eat, Grandma, as he attempts to demystify aspects of the job market, one by one, in his second installment of "Matt's Coffee Thoughts." Grab your Chai Latte or Red Bull and prepare to learn:

    Fact vs. Fiction: Separating what's really going on with professionals vs. the folklore being perpetuated online.The Reality of Career Changes: Explore why career pivots are increasingly common and how to navigate them effectively with insights from career coaching expert Dr. Ben Ritter and the team at Let's Eat, Grandma.Embracing Your Career Path: Understand the value of being a generalist versus a specialist and how to leverage your unique skills and experiences across various industries.Advice for Career Changers: How to successfully make the leap through a career change.

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    Resources Mentioned: 


    Ikagai - https://medium.com/@marenkate/ikigai-and-the-four-ps-how-to-get-paid-enjoy-your-work-solve-problems-and-find-purpose-8c9dc615648f

    Loyalty Tax - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/some-employees-paying-loyalty-tax-heres-why-/

    Dr. Ritter LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbenjaminritter-leadershipdevelopment/

    Dr. Ritter Website - https://benjamin-ritter.com/

    Austin Meetup - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/3-destructive-job-search-mistakes-to-avoid-free-linkedin-headshots-tickets-869222988357?utm_source=eventbrite&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=reminder_attendees_48hour_email&utm_term=eventname&ref=eemaileventremind

    Talk to Matt here - https://meetings.hubspot.com/matthew-villanueva?uuid=ce53d8a9-238c-45db-976d-64749426d7d5

    Career Clarity - https://www.amazon.com/Turn-Steps-Clarity-your-Career/dp/0997596104


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  • In my opinion, job seekers are far too confident when it comes to their ability to interview. The reality is that most folks are just average at interviewing. However, for you, the career warriors aiming for the top positions, I’m calling you to be the best interviewee you can be.


    Just to start out some things, here are some fun facts about the job interview process: 

    According to Forbes, you only have seven seconds to make a strong first impression.67% of recruiters believe that maintaining eye contact is essential for making a positive impression (Jobspin).82% of hiring managers employ virtual interviews (Indeed).

    So, consider this episode an opportunity to pick up a thing or two about those interviews you may or may not hate.This may be the thing



    Today I brought on the amazing Sam Owens who is a veteran guest here on the podcast.

    sam is the founder of Sam’s Career Talk where he provides career coaching services and helps people land their dream jobs and thrive in them. He is also a chief marketing officer who has worked for three multi-billion dollar companies in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry, and now runs marketing for Freezing Point, the makers of Frazil. He is the author of I HATE JOB INTERVIEWS, an exciting book that will be released by HarperCollins on June 4 of 2024.


    ...and let’s launch right into it with the Career Warrior Podcast! 


    Resources

    Get more help on your applications from Let’s Eat, Grandma


    Check out Sam’s Career Talk


    Connect with Sam on LinkedIn


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  • Welcome to the Let’s Eat, Grandma Career Warrior Podcast, where our mission is not just to help you land your dream job but to empower you to live your best professional life! In this episode, Chris, the founder and CEO of Let’s Eat, Grandma, shares invaluable insights and practical tips to help you revolutionize your resume and stand out in today’s competitive job market.


    We will discusses five creative ways to make your resume shine. From crafting attention-grabbing titles at the top to highlighting key accomplishments using the SPAR technique, you’ll learn how to captivate hiring managers and showcase your unique value proposition.


    Plus, find out why incorporating a powerful quote or testimonial at the top of your resume can set you apart from the competition. And don’t overlook the significance of subtle yet bold design choices to make your resume visually appealing and memorable.


    Whether you’re a struggling job seeker or a seasoned professional looking to level up your career, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you craft a standout resume that gets noticed.


    Join us on the Career Warrior Podcast and unlock the secrets to making your resume a powerful tool in your job search arsenal. Head over to letseatgrandma.com for a free resume critique and exclusive giveaways for our listeners.

    Tune in now and take the first step towards securing your dream job!


    Resources:

    Get more help on your applications from Let’s Eat, Grandma


    List of Questions Asked on a Job Application


    LinkedIn Members Can Now Spotlight Career Breaks on Their Profiles


    Should You Use the LinkedIn Career Break Feature?


    Yes, You Need to Re-Enter Your Resume Info on Those Darn Job Applications — Here’s Why.


    Why an Interview Portfolio Will Land You the Job 


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  • Join Matt Villanueva, Co-Founder of Let's Eat, Grandma, as he demystifies the job market in "Matt's Coffee Thoughts." Grab your favorite mug of *energizing beverage* and listen along as you join Matt on a journey of discovery and growth as job seekers. In this inaugural episode, Matt delves into:

    The Pitfalls of Job Statistics: Learn why stats can be overwhelming and how to navigate through them effectively. Starting with recent news highlights, from fluctuations in jobless claims, GDP growth, and even current application response rates.
    Practical Strategies for Job Seekers: Get started TODAY with a few actionable tips, using the principles of Kaizen, from resume refinement to strategic networking and building your elevator pitch, in order to enhance your job search.

    Join Matt for expert insights tailored to today's competitive job landscape, and take the first step towards understanding trends in the labor force and responding appropriately.


    Citations/Resources:

    US Weekly Jobless Claims Fall to 207K


    US Weekly Jobless Claims: 211K


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    Connect with Matt and Chris Villanueva on LinkedIn


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  • Are you ready to revolutionize your job search? In this episode, we're delving into some of the most pressing questions from job seekers, tackling topics from LinkedIn career breaks to crafting impressive interview portfolios. Join us as we uncover the strategies that will set you apart in today's competitive job market.

    🔍 Question 1: Should You Use the LinkedIn Career Break Feature?


    Navigate the complexities of career gaps with insights from Reem Abouemera and Chris. Discover the potential benefits and pitfalls of utilizing LinkedIn's Career Break feature and learn how it can impact your job search strategy.

    📝 Question 2: Yes, You Need to Re-Enter Your Resume Info on Those Darn Job Applications — Here’s Why.


    Unravel the mysteries of applicant tracking systems (ATS) with expert advice from Chris. Explore why re-entering your resume information on job applications is crucial for maximizing your chances of getting noticed by recruiters and hiring managers.

    đŸ’Œ Question 3: How can I use a sample portfolio for a job interview?


    Unlock the power of interview portfolios with a step-by-step guide from letseatgrandma.com. From cover pages to work samples, discover how to create a compelling portfolio that showcases your skills, experience, and suitability for the job.

    Join us as we delve into these key questions and equip you with the tools you need to ace your next job interview. Don't miss out on this essential advice for standing out in today's competitive job market!


    Resources:


    Get more help on your applications from Let’s Eat, Grandma


    List of Questions Asked on a Job Application


    LinkedIn Members Can Now Spotlight Career Breaks on Their Profiles


    Should You Use the LinkedIn Career Break Feature?


    Yes, You Need to Re-Enter Your Resume Info on Those Darn Job Applications — Here’s Why.


    Why an Interview Portfolio Will Land You the Job 




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  • Are You Using the Top Keywords for Your LinkedIn in 2024?


    Do You Need to Include the Company’s Address (or Yours) on a Cover Letter?


    How should I phrase my professional experiences on my resume? 


    For this episode and next episode, I’m focusing on some very specific and great questions from our blog. This is such valuable data because these questions certainly surprised us as top questions that were being asked.



    Resources


    Do You Need to Include the Company’s Address (or Yours) on a Cover Letter?


    Are You Using the Top Keywords for Your LinkedIn in 2024?


    Synonyms to Use for “Responsible For”


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  • “I’m not getting any callbacks. I’ve applied for 300+ positions!” 

    “I am perfectly qualified for the position.”

    “My job search has been going on way too long.”


    These are the common cries of job seekers and you may have even said some of these verbatim.

    Today, I’d like to discuss the most common and difficult part of the job search process, get your wheels turning, and hopefully add some extra oomph to you as a side benefit. Spoiler alert: the resume is one part of why you may get hired, but it’s not the only thing that may be holding you back. 


    I’m Chris, the founder and CEO of Let’s Eat, Grandma. We’re focused on helping mid to senior-level professionals get noticed and land more interviews. Head on over to letseatgrandma.com and get your free resume critique.



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  •  In this episode of the Let’s Eat, Grandma Career Warrior Podcast, Chris Villanueva unveils the secrets to conquering Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) with our comprehensive ATS-friendly checklist. As job seekers gear up for success in their applications, understanding ATS intricacies is paramount.


    Key Talking Points:

    Design Tips for ATS Success: Learn the design choices to ensure your resume not only catches the human eye but also navigates through ATS systems seamlessly.Effective Keyword Targeting: Chris guides you through the process of identifying and integrating position-specific keywords that will make your resume stand out to both ATS and hiring managers.File Type Matters: Explore the often overlooked yet crucial aspect of resume submissions – the file type.

    Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, this episode equips you with practical tips to navigate the world of ATS and ensure your resume lands on the desks of hiring managers. Head to letseatgrandma.com/podcast for additional resources tailored for podcast listeners.


    Tune in now and unlock the secrets to mastering ATS with our comprehensive checklist. It's time to elevate your resume game and secure the job you deserve!


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  • Unlock the secrets to leveling up your resume for either an internal promotion or an external application for a leveled-up position. Whether you're eyeing a director-level position or aiming for the C-Suite, this episode is your guide to standing out for that next career move.


    In this episode, we address the most sought-after theme of 2024 from mid-level to executive job seekers. Head over to letseatgrandma.com and submit your resume for a free review to ensure yours stands out.


    Discover how your new resume can set you apart, focusing on results rather than just skills. Learn from the story of a supply chain director aiming for C-Suite roles and explore genius bullet points that showcase your impact.


    Zoom out strategically by aligning your resume with job postings, emphasizing your key strengths. Utilize the summary section as your branding tool, incorporating a tagline that defines your leadership vision. Uncover additional tools that we’ll discuss in this episode.


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