How to Stand Out in a Crowded Job Market | Bonus Episode
Episode SummaryIn this special live episode, Chris Whyte, founder of Kodu and host of Why Design, delivers an energetic and insight-packed session to design students on how to stand out in a competitive job market. Drawing from 12+ years of experience and dozens of podcast conversations with design leaders, Chris shares practical advice on everything from CV writing to LinkedIn networking, preparing for interviews, and unlocking hidden job opportunities.This is a must-listen for any early-career designer or student ready to land that first big opportunity.What You’ll LearnCrafting Standout ApplicationsWhy most CVs fail in the first 7 seconds, and how to beat the odds.What hiring managers really want to see in portfolios.The power of showing process (not just final outcomes).Cutting Through the NoiseHow a single phone call or mailed portfolio can beat 700 online applications.Pro tips for writing effective, personalized cover letters (with a smart use of AI—but not too much).Nailing the InterviewHow to use the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to tell compelling stories.Why preparation beats talent when it comes to interviews.Questions to expect, and questions you should ask.Job Search Tactics That WorkThe hidden job market: Why 85% of jobs never make it to job boards.How to go beyond LinkedIn job ads and reach decision-makers directly.The “3X system” to grow your network, post with purpose, and engage effectively.Building a Better LinkedIn PresenceWhat makes a LinkedIn profile “sticky” to recruiters.The benefits of journaling your job search publicly.Voice notes, featured posts, and other tactics that boost visibility. Top TakeawaysBe proactive: Most candidates aren’t doing half of what’s possible to stand out.Show your thinking: Employers care more about how you think than what you made.Network now: Relationships > resumes. Word of mouth leads to most opportunities.Use the tools: Google Jobs, ChatGPT for research, TotalJobs, and custom GPTs to prep.Follow up: Don’t be afraid to reach out twice. Or three times.Connect with Chris Whyte on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte/Learn more about Kodu Recruitment: https://teamkodu.com/
Why Design is a podcast exploring the stories behind hardware and physical product development. Hosted by Chris Whyte, founder of Kodu, the show dives into the journeys of founders, senior design leaders, and engineers shaping people and planet-friendly products.
Formerly "The Design Journeys Podcast", each episode uncovers pivotal career moments, lessons learned, and behind-the-scenes insights from industry experts. Whether you’re a designer, engineer, or simply curious about how great hardware products come to life, Why Design offers real stories, actionable advice, and inspiration for anyone passionate about design and innovation.
Join us as we listen, learn, and connect through the stories that define the world of physical product development.
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