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A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDELEILANI M. BROWNYOUR NEXT Message
DISCLAIMERUNAUTHORIZED USE PROHIBITEDThis book, along with all its content, materials, and information included, is the exclusive property of Giant Steps, LLC. It is designed solely for the personal use of the intended recipient. Additionally, this transition guide serves as a companion to our tailored transition coaching services and select online course oerings. Reproduction, distribution, modication, or unauthorized use of this material without prior written consent is strictly forbidden. All rights to this document are reserved, and any unauthorized use may lead to legal consequences. For further details, please visit: Giantstepsllc.com/career.All Rights Reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or used in any form without written permission from the publisher.giantstepsllc.com
CONTENTSPHASE 01: GATHER YOURSELF .......................6PHASE 02: PRE-LAUNCH ............................13PHASE 03: GO-TO-MARKET ........................ 32PHASE 04: CAMPAIGN MOMENTUM ................ 39APPENDIX ......................................... 52
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE4 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comCONGRATULATIONS!That might not be the response you expected during an unplanned career transition, but I truly mean it. It’s time to celebrate—not only for what you’ve already accomplished, which is substantial, but also for the remarkable opportunities that are on the other side of this experience.So, here you are, facing a career transition. Perhaps you’re starting to see the signs that a change is coming (or needs to come) or you have received the dreaded notication and it’s already underway. I understand this can be a frightening and uncertain time, but remember: you are not alone, the rst or the last. Countless professionals have lost their jobs and emerged stronger, discovering unexpected avenues for success. I can personally attest to this, having been there myself!What I’ve learned from these experiences is that by shifting our perspective, rening our mindset, and reclaiming our control, we will be better candidates for the roles we seek and transform despair into joy.This isn’t just theory for me. I’ve actually had the framework for this project outlined for years, initially created during my own career transition during the 2008 nancial crisis. As I’ve watched the recent news, tracked commentary on social media, and answered calls from so many who have reached out for guidance, support, and community, I knew it was time to nalize, update, and share this guide.You’ll notice a particular perspective throughout these pages. As a former chief marketing ocer and brand strategy leader across various organizations, I often approach the job market through a marketing lens, and you will see that in this book. The key dierence?
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comYou are the product. Your skills, experiences, and unique qualities are what you’re bringing to market, and positioning yourself eectively is critical to your success.If you are reading these words, you likely recognize the value of structure during your search. It’s all too easy to drift o course—to enjoy the newfound freedom from a job that perhaps wasn’t serving you well—but nding your way back becomes exponentially harder with each passing day. Time moves quickly, and there are essential actions you should take daily to maintain momentum.With this need for structure in mind, the pages that follow provide a clear roadmap designed to guide you through this process. We’ll explore steps you may have already considered, as well as fresh approaches you might not have thought about. This guide oers a comprehensive framework while intentionally avoiding overly specic timelines or one-size-ts-all advice—your journey is uniquely yours.Though this moment may feel dicult, I encourage you to look at it as a reset, the gateway to your next giant step. Embrace the possibilities that lie ahead and nurture hope, recognizing that this transition oers a unique chance for personal growth and transformation.Together, we’ll approach your career transition with condence and clarity, empowering you to take those GIANT STEPS toward your future.Let’s get started.Leilani 5
GIANT STEPS, LLC CAREER TRANSITION GUIDE | CONFIDENTIAL 2024PHASEGATHER YOURSELF0101
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comPHASE 1GATHER YOURSELFFinalize Your Exit PackageComplete any remaining paperwork related to your exit package. Develop an Exit NoteWrite a farewell message and begin your farewell tour with trusted contacts.Document Your Recent AccomplishmentsStart creating a record of your recent achievements using the STAR formula.Keep in Touch with Who Matters: Reach out to trusted colleagues for support and potential job leads.Get Rid of Who Doesn’tRemove negativity from your professional network.Accelerate Through the Stages of GriefAim to reach acceptance and start focusing on the future.Build a Mind-Body-Spirit ScheduleRe-prioritize activities like medical appointments, exercise, and mental health.Recreate Your OceRefresh your workspace at home.Wardrobe RefreshEdit your wardrobe, repair or replace items, and keep your appearance at its best so you’re prepared for interview or networking opportunities. 7
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE8 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comSmile for the CameraPlan a professional hair, makeup, and photo day for a fresh new headshot.Examine Your Spending and BudgetEvaluate your spending habits and reduce unnecessary expenses.Transitioning from one career chapter to the next can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. Before diving into job searches and interviews, it’s essential to take a step back and focus on yourself.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comPHASE 1First, GATHER YOURSELF. Take a moment to regain your balance. Prioritize your well-being, and prepare mentally, emotionally, and physically for the journey ahead.This phase is about creating a strong foundation—clearing the clutter, both literally and guratively—so you can approach your career transition with clarity, condence, and renewed energy. By taking the time to nalize your exit, refresh your surroundings, and care for your mind and body, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the next steps of your career journey.01 . Finalize Your Exit PackageComplete any remaining paperwork related to your exit package and minimize interactions at your soon-to-be-former job that cause stress. Start focusing on your well-being, cancelling meetings if you need to do so. 02. Develop an Exit NoteWrite a farewell message (that goes beyond the ocial announcement) and begin your parting tour with trusted contacts, vendors, and colleagues. Ignore or dismiss anyone who you do not feel adds to your peace, hope or future. 03 . Document Your Recent Accomplishments Create a record of your recent achievements so you’ll be able to eectively communicate your value during job interviews and refresh your resume. Document your list using the STAR* formula (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This will be helpful to you later. 9
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE10 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com04 . Keep in Touch With Those Who MatterMaintain positive post-departure relationships with trusted colleagues who can provide support, advice, and potential job leads. 05 . Get Rid of Those Who Don’tRemove negativity from your professional network to maintain a positive mindset.06 . Accelerate Through the Stages of GriefIt’s normal to experience stages of grief. Aim to reach acceptance as soon as possible to move forward in your career transition. You cannot have one foot in the past and move toward the future.07 . Build a Mind-Body-Spirit Schedule Re-prioritize activities you’ve sacriced, making all the medical appointments you’ve likely skipped, and exercising regularly to boost your mood and energy. Go on a vacation (or two) for a change of scenery, restoration, and a fresh perspective. 08. Recreate Your Oce Consider refreshing your workspace at home so that it promotes productivity and minimizes distractions, while signaling also that you have stepped into a new chapter. 09 . Wardrobe Refresh Say goodbye to the old and welcome the new! Conduct a thorough review of your clothing, discarding items that no longer t, atter, or align with your next chapter.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com10 . Smile for the Camera What did Diana Ross say? “I’m coming out!” Consider having your hair (and makeup) professionally done and hire a photographer for a fresh new headshot for LinkedIn and any other online bios. 11 . Examine Your Spending and Budget Evaluate your spending habits and reduce unnecessary expenses to alleviate stress. (I know this may seem counterintuitive after suggesting the wardrobe refresh, but here we’re talking about things that don’t serve you in your job search. And, remember, we support legitimate self-care—just maybe not subscriptions to ve streaming services!)Although this phase might not appear to involve signicant action in your search, it is actually benecial for productivity. It can enhance your condence and help clear some essential tasks o your list. This stage is crucial for kickstarting your search eectively.11
GIANT STEPS, LLC CAREER TRANSITION GUIDE | CONFIDENTIAL 202412 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comSometimes it takes years for a person to become an overnight success.PRINCE ROGERS NELSON
PHASEPRE-LAUNCH0202
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE14 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comPHASE 2 Build Your Professional Contacts ListSegment your list into Categories A, B, C, and D.Compose a First Draft of a Bio and ResumeBegin drafting and seek feedback to rene your resume and bio.Craft Elevator PitchesDevelop two concise pitches highlighting your skills, experiences, and career goals.Craft Cover NotesDevelop a template for cover letters to tailor for each job application.Draft a Final Thank You LetterStart an early draft to express gratitude to those who help you.Optimize Your LinkedIn ProleUpdate your prole with relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments.Audit Social MediaEnsure your digital presence is professional and consider expanding beyond LinkedIn with a personal website.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comTest, Learn, and ModifyRene your approach based on feedback and experiences.Practice Phone and Virtual InterviewsSchedule mock interviews and feedback sessions. Draft Thank You LettersPrepare to send personalized thank-you notes to individuals who support your job search.Finalize PreparationsEnsure all materials and strategies are in place for your market launch. Rest and RechargeTake time to rest and prepare mentally for the active job search phase.15
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE16 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comPHASE 2 PRE-LAUNCH. It’s crucial to resist the “ready, re…then aim” impulse and instead emphasize strategy over haste in your eorts. This phase is dedicated to eectively packaging and positioning yourself while formulating a robust go-to-market strategy. Key tasks include creating a compelling resume and bio that showcase your unique skills, as well as developing an engaging elevator pitch that conveys your identity and aspirations. Additionally, you’ll prepare to leverage your network by segmenting and categorizing your important contacts. While this process might feel a bit impersonal, having a structured plan for who to engage, how, and why will lead to meaningful connections and impactful results. You’ll reach out to individuals for insights and mentorship, participate in discussions to rene your goals, and identify key contacts that align with your ambitions.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comI always get to where I’m going by walking away from where I have been.A. A. MILNE, WINNIE THE POOH17
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE18 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comPRODUCT DEVELOPMENTYou are the product! So, before we put you into the market there are several things that must be done: 01. Compose a First Draft of a Bio and Resume To begin, you must critically evaluate and update your resume. Look to your list of job accomplishments from Phase 1, think back to relevant performance feedback received, and consider the broader experience set you may have from volunteering, board service, or other pursuits outside of work. You can and should also seek additional input to ensure that your CV eectively showcases your skills and experiences. We always suggest a “What does it say, and what does it pay?” exercise to help. Ask those who are 1) in your industry, 2) recruiters, or 3) hiring managers to evaluate your drafts against those two questions. Ultimately, you want to develop a compelling story that highlights your career journey, strengths, and additive achievements. Articial Intelligence (AI) is a powerful tool to help you work smarter in the job search. Think of AI as a 24/7 career coach—it can assist with tasks like resume renement, interview preparation, and preliminary research. Use it to polish your resume, practice for interviews, and gather insights, but your creativity and authenticity remain essential. Don’t sacrice your
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comunique voice and always stay ethical—never misrepresent your skills or experiences. For more tips on AI best practices, refer to the appendix. 02. Craft 2 Elevator Pitches Develop a concise pitch highlighting your skills, experiences, and career goals. Prepare an explanation for why you left your previous job. (See instructions in next section.) 03. Craft Cover Notes Develop a template of introduction so that you can easily create individualized cover letters for each job application that demonstrate your enthusiasm and qualications. 04. Draft a Final Thank You Letter Really, Leilani? You want me to write a thank-you note to everyone who helps me, even before they assist me? Absolutely! Keep a list, and draft an advance thank-you note that you’ll use to express your gratitude to all those who supported you throughout the process. Track every phone call, email, meeting, and introduction so that you remember who to oer thanks once you secure a position. In fact, consider it manifesting, because you will succeed! 19
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE20 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comTHE ELEVATOR PITCHOne of the things that even the most seasoned professionals and executives sometimes struggle with is presenting a crisp and clear introduction of themselves. Developing an “elevator pitch” can help you do just that; it is a succinct summary of who you are, what you do, and what makes you unique. It’s so-named because it should be short enough to deliver during an elevator ride—about 30 seconds to a minute. An elevator pitch is a powerful tool for networking, interviews, and making strong rst impressions. It’s your chance to highlight your expertise and career achievements. As someone with signicant experience, your pitch should reect your professional journey and the unique value you bring. Whether you’re navigating a job or career transition, or simply aiming to advance in your eld, the lesson that follows will help you present yourself condently and eectively.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comMASTERING THE ELEVATOR PITCHCreating a successful elevator pitch depends on providing concise and compelling answers to three basic queries:Who Are You?Start with your name and a brief description of your professional background. Example: “Hi, I’m Alexis Turner. I’m a seasoned project manager with over 10 years of experience in the tech industry.” What Do You Do? Summarize your key skills, areas of expertise, and the roles you’ve excelled in. Example: “I specialize in leading cross-functional teams to deliver complex software projects on time and within budget. My background includes managing projects for both startups and Fortune 500 companies.” What Makes You Unique?Highlight your unique contributions, signicant achievements, and what sets you apart from others. Example: “What sets me apart is my ability to turn around struggling projects. I recently led a critical initiative that increased eciency by 40% and saved $2 million in costs.”21
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE22 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com“Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.”ANAÏS NIN
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comADVANCED TIPS FOR EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONALSWhile every professional should have a basic elevator pitch in their back pocket, here are a few additional tips for elevating that pitch that might prove especially benecial to experienced talent: Emphasize Leadership and ResultsFocus on your leadership roles, major projects, and quantiable results. This demonstrates your impact and value to potential employers.Align with Career GoalsTailor your pitch to reect your current career objectives. Whether you’re seeking a leadership role, a new industry, or a fresh challenge, ensure your pitch aligns with your goals.Incorporate Industry TrendsMention how your experience positions you to address current industry challenges or trends. This shows you’re forward-thinking and adaptable.23
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE24 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comPRACTICING AND REFINING YOUR PITCHOnce you’ve crafted your elevator pitch, rene it through reiteration: 01. Practice with Colleagues Present your pitch to colleagues or senior mentors for constructive feedback. This helps you ne-tune your delivery and content. 02. Adapt for Dierent AudiencesTailor your pitch for various audiences, including recruiters, hiring managers, or potential clients. Adjust your focus to highlight relevant aspects of your experience.03. Continually UpdateRegularly revisit and refresh your pitch as your career progresses and your goals evolve.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comComparing yourself to others’ success only slows you down from nding your own.OCTAVIA SPENCER25
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE26 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com04. Optimize Your LinkedIn ProleOnce the resume is done, update your LinkedIn prole with relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments. You might also audit your social media and consider expanding your digital presence with a personal website containing your bio and links to your social media. 05. Test, Learn, and ModifyContinually rene your approach based on feedback and experiences.06. Practice Phone and Virtual InterviewsPrepare for incoming opportunities by doing mock interviews and feedback sessions. 07. Draft Thank You LettersPrepare to send personalized versions of the thank-you notes to the list of individuals who have supported your job search.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com“Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can.”ARTHUR ASHE27
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE28 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comTHE STAR FORMULAThe STAR formula is a well-known, long established method for answering behavioral interview questions by describing a Situation, Task, Action and Result. This technique helps you present your experiences in a clear, concise, and impactful way.SituationDescribe the context within which you performed a task or faced a challenge at work. This sets the stage for your story by providing the background and giving the interviewer a sense of the environment in which you were operating. Example: “In my previous role as a project manager at XYZ Company, we had a signicant project that was falling behind schedule due to unforeseen technical issues.” TaskExplain the specic task or responsibility you were assigned in that situation. This part focuses on your role and the objectives you needed to achieve. Example: “I was responsible for bringing the project back on track and ensuring it was completed on time.”
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comActionDescribe the actions you took to address the task or solve the problem. Be detailed about what you did, how you did it, and why you chose those actions. Example: “I organized a series of meetings with the technical team to identify the root cause of the delays. I then developed a revised project plan, reallocating resources and setting new milestones to ensure better monitoring and control.”ResultShare the outcomes or results of your actions. Emphasize what you accomplished and, if possible, quantify the results to demonstrate the impact of your work. Example: “As a result, we were able to complete the project two weeks ahead of the revised schedule, which saved the company $50,000 in potential penalties and led to a 10% increase in client satisfaction.”29
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE30 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com“The rst step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.”J.P. MORGAN
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comSEGMENTING YOUR NETWORKFirst, you’ll start by building your targeted customer and marketing list (oops, I mean your professional contacts list!) and carefully segmenting it into categories based on the level of inuence and the nature of your relationship with each contact. This segmentation allows you to prioritize your outreach, starting with those who are most likely to oer immediate support and guidance, and gradually expanding to new connections that can open doors to potential opportunities. Category A VIPs, trusted and helpful former bosses, mentors, peers and friends who are actionable inuencers. These are people who truly have your back, with whom you feel very comfortable being authentic, and, if an unintentional tear falls out, you aren’t going to mind. These meetings may entail simple mentorship and guidance, or they could oer leads on/introductions to actual career opportunities. You will reach out to this group rst. (10 people)Category B Contacts and acquaintances you think might be helpful potentially, but whom you’ve never reached out to for assistance. (20 people)Category C A wish list of key contacts at target companies where you think you might want to work or there are roles of interest. (30 people) Category D New connections. Join groups and make contacts on LinkedIn. (Importantly, this should wait until after you’ve refresh your prole.) 31
GIANT STEPS, LLC CAREER TRANSITION GUIDE | CONFIDENTIAL 2024PHASEGO-TO-MARKET 0303
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comPHASE 3GO TO MARKETSend Notes to Category A ContactsProvide a career update and request brief meetings to strategize and get feedback. Send a Note to Category BShare a career update and request a few minutes to catch up. Identify Target Companies (Category C)Research targeted companies, roles, and contacts and reach out. Engage with Search Firms Ensure you are on the radar of search rms.Networking MeetingsAim for at least 3-5 networking meetings or informational interviews per week.Job ApplicationsSubmit 5-10 job inquiries.Follow-UpsEnsure timely follow-ups on all submitted applications and networking meetings.33
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE34 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comSkill DevelopmentDedicate time each week to learning new skills or enhancing existing ones.Content EngagementEngage with industry-specic content, such as attending webinars or reading relevant articles.Personal BrandingPost updates or articles on LinkedIn and other professional networks.Mock InterviewsParticipate in mock interviews to stay sharp and prepared for real opportunities.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comWith everything organized, you are now prepared to condently implement your go-to-market strategy.In the upcoming sections, we will present a step-by-step, coordinated approach to eectively engage with key contacts and your targeted audience, while also expanding your network. By adhering to these steps, you will be in an excellent position to carry out a successful outreach strategy and forge valuable connections that will advance your career.Step 1 - Reach Out to Category ARemember, these individuals are VIPs, including genuine and supportive former bosses, mentors, peers, and friends who can inuence actionable outcomes. Take this chance to share your career status update and request a brief meeting to discuss strategies for moving forward and gather relevant feedback. These discussions can provide mentorship, guidance on your objectives, or introductions to actual job opportunities. Start your outreach with this group, aiming to engage at least 10 people. Step 2 - Connect with Contact Category BThis group consists of potentially helpful acquaintances whom you believe may be benecial, but whom you’ve never approached for help before. Aim to contact a minimum of 20 people. Update them on your career and ask for a few moments to reconnect. Step 3 - Identify Target Companies (Category C) Once you’ve researched potential companies where you are interested in working or have a specic role in mind and you’ve compiled a wish 35
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE36 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comlist of key contacts (aim to identify at least 30 individuals), leverage your personal network for introductions. Also determine whether you might “know” these targets through shared backgrounds, such as alumni aliations or through membership in certain professional organizations—obviously, these connections can be conversation starters/door openers, as well. Step 4 - Connect with Search FirmsInvariably, I am asked about connecting with search rms for opportunities and the answer is yes, of course. If you have existing relationships, you should include these contacts in the categories we discussed above, but if you don’t, you will want to get on their radar screen.There are two types of search rms you should be familiar with:Retained Search Firms operate as exclusive partners to companies, receiving payment regardless of placement outcome. They typically handle executive and senior-level positions (usually $150K+ salary range) and work closely with a small number of carefully vetted candidates. These tend to be larger, well-established rms with global presence.Contingent Search Firms are paid only when they successfully place a candidate. They often work on multiple searches simultaneously and represent a broader range of positions across various salary levels. These rms tend to move faster and may represent you for multiple opportunities at once.You will want to make sure that you are on the radar screen for both types. One eective approach is through LinkedIn, as recruiters often specialize in specic industries or functions. Join industry-specic
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comLinkedIn groups where recruiters are active participants and engage meaningfully in discussions to increase your visibility.Yet another way is to use your career transition as a legitimate reason to contact search professionals, providing them with an updated prole, resume, and areas of interest. This proactive approach ensures you’re ndable when relevant opportunities arise as the rm’s candidate databases are often outdated.In addition, remember that good people often know good people (or at least that is assumed), so asking the inuencers in your network to share your name and prole is a great way to network into search rms. A personal introduction from a respected professional signicantly increases your chances of receiving attention from top recruiters.Finally, always take the meeting! If a search rm reaches out to you, enthusiastically accept the invitation even if the specic role isn’t right for you. These meetings serve multiple valuable purposes: they serve as mini-interviews and can enhance your prole, they keep you top of mind to those in active searches, they allow you to provide other names (and you become known as a credible resource), and it expands your professional network. Recruiters will note the conversation in their database, which enhances your prole for future opportunities and your phone will keep ringing.IMPORTANT NOTE: I do not recommend that you pay a fee for placement. Generally, hiring companies pay these rms for talent placed, and you should not incur any costs. If a search rm requests payment from you, consider this a red ag and seek opportunities elsewhere.37
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE38 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”MARK TWAIN
PHASECAMPAIGN MOMENTUM 0404
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE40 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comPHASE 4CAMPAIGN MOMENTUMNetworking MeetingsContinue with 3-5 networking meetings per week.Job Applications Submit 5-10 job inquiries.Follow-UpsMaintain follow-up communications with contacts and applications.Skill DevelopmentContinue with at least 2 hours per week of skill enhancement.Content EngagementParticipate in 3 industry-related activities per week.Personal BrandingMaintain visibility with 1-2 posts per week on LinkedIn and other networks.Exercise and Well-beingKeep up with daily exercise and weekly mental health check-ins.Mock InterviewsContinue participating in 1-2 mock interviews per week.Volunteer and Conferences Engage in volunteer work and consider attending relevant conferences.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comPhase 4 is where you maintain campaign momentum in your job search, focusing on consistent engagement and strategic persistence. Your goal during this period is to create momentum by engaging in a variety of activities that extend beyond submitting online applications. The key is to structure your days and week with intention, knowing that each activity contributes to your overall progress. Keep these principles in mind:Broaden Your Denition of SuccessEvery meeting or connection is a seed for future opportunities. Success isn’t limited to securing interviews—it’s also about learning, building relationships, and expanding your network.Limit Reliance on Online ApplicationsWhile essential, online submissions should form only a small portion of your eorts. The majority of your success will come from human interactions and strategic outreach.41
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE42 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the rst step.”Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comYOUR WEEKLY ACTIVITY PLANTailor this framework to your schedule, ensuring that it keeps you engaged and gives you plenty of time away from the connes of your desk: DEVELOPING YOUR WEEKLY SCHEDULEWe recommend developing your own weekly schedule, ensuring that it has momentum and provides important balance like getting you away from your desk:Networking MeetingsSchedule 3-5 networking conversations weekly, including informational interviews and coee chats (both virtual and in-person). These will strengthen connections and uncover hidden opportunities.Targeted Job Applications/Inquiries Submit 5-7 customized applications, inquiries or letters of interest tailored to specic roles and companies that align with your goals, interests and expertise. Remember that quality over quantity is key - you will want to put your best foot forward and personalize your materials for maximum impact. Keep track of each submission, noting the date, the role, the company and the rationale for your interest, to stay organized. This may be handy in your continued conversations and networking as you will be able to easily refer to it when someone asks how they can be helpful (and they will.)43
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE44 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comFollow-Ups Be sure to follow up on submitted applications, networking conversations and opportunities. This will show initiative and reinforce your interest. The tracker you develop will be helpful in this regard.Skill Development Dedicate 2+ hours each week to learning new skills or rening existing ones through online courses, podcasts, reading, workshops and even certications. This will enhance your qualications and help you stay competitive. Curiosity and learning often spark creativity which can be useful in a search.Company and Industry Research Allocate time each week to research target companies and stay current with industry trends. This knowledge will prove invaluable during interviews and networking conversations. Consider these research approaches: Set up Google Alerts for your target companies and industry keywords. Review quarterly earnings calls and annual reports for public companies in which you have interest. Follow industry leaders and target companies on LinkedIn. Subscribe to industry-specic newsletters or publications. Join professional associations that provide market insights. Read trade publications and sources relevant to your eld as well as other relevant media.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comDemonstrating informed knowledge about a company’s recent developments, challenges, and opportunities during conversations signals your genuine interest and preparation. Maintain brief notes on key ndings to reference before interviews or networking events.Wellness and Balance Reserve time for physical activity, mindfulness, and personal interests. Career transitions can be stressful, and maintaining your well-being is crucial for sustaining momentum and presenting your best self. Schedule at least 3-4 wellness activities weekly, whether it’s exercise, meditation, or simply time in nature.By following this structured yet exible approach, you’ll maintain consistent progress while preserving the energy needed for this important transition.45
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE46 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com“Dreams don’t work unless you do.”UNKNOWN
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comALWAYS DO THE FOLLOWINGOrganize Your Day and WeekCreate a daily schedule and prioritize your tasks to enhance organization and productivity. Dress Professionally, Even at HomeKeep a polished appearance to elevate your condence. Stay Positive (or Fake It Till You Make It)Keep a cheerful mindset during your career transition. Choose faith over fear and avoid doom scrolling or associating with negative people. Your circle inuences your mindset! Focus on your goals, and don’t let “what ifs” or naysayers hinder your progress. Avoid Weekend WorkEstablish boundaries to prevent burnout and sustain a healthy work-life balance. Job searching is a job in itself, so ensure you take time to recharge. Enjoy Something Fun or Indulgent WeeklyDedicate time to activities that bring you joy. VolunteerVolunteering allows you to contribute your valuable skills to causes you care about, creating positive change during a time when you might need a sense of purpose. Beyond the good you’ll do for others, 47
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE48 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comthese experiences naturally broaden your network, develop new capabilities, and enhance your resume—all while nourishing your spirit and perspective during transition.Attend ConferencesConsider attending relevant conferences for networking and skill development; the investment could prove worthwhile. Embrace Continuous LearningUtilize resources like MasterClass, YouTube, and podcasts. Engage with at least one each week to stay current.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com“New beginnings are often disguised as painful endings.”LAO TZU49
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE50 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comBEST WISHES!You did it! Even if you’re still actively in your search, know that you’ve made signicant progress.Take a moment to reect on your achievements thus far and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead. This unplanned transition oers a unique chance to redene your path and explore new opportunities that resonate with your passions and strengths. Keep in mind that every challenge you encounter is an opportunity for growth and resilience. You’ve already shown remarkable bravery by facing this change head-on. Now, with a clear plan and the support you deserve, you’re on the right track to take your next GIANT STEPS toward success. Trust the process, stay focused on your objectives, and remember that you have the ability to shape your future in extraordinary ways.While I can’t promise that following this plan will lead directly to your dream job, it will certainly help you manage your job search eectively while also prioritizing your well-being and putting you in the best position to achieve your goals. Stay positive and proactive, and believe that your next career chapter holds immense potential.Congratulations once again on taking this courageous step forward.Onward,Leilani
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comABOUT LEILANI BROWNLeilani M. Brown is the founder and CEO of Giant Steps, LLC, a consulting rm at the intersection of strategy, culture, and the future of work. Her rm advises executives and boards across diverse sectors, including corporate, non-prot, arts, healthcare, and education. Previously, Leilani was an award-winning executive at companies including Stride, Starr Insurance Companies, The Economist Group, MetLife, and American International Group. She serves as Vice Chair on the board of Middlebury College and is also a board member for the Charleston Literary Festival.Leilani is also the host of Your First Job, a podcast about early career experiences and bridging generational gaps in the workforce. An accomplished author and speaker, her insights on workforce development and inclusion have been featured in major media outlets. She holds degrees from Middlebury College and NYU, along with a Directorship Certication® from the National Association of Corporate Directors.ABOUT LEILANI BROWN51
GIANT STEPS, LLC CAREER TRANSITION GUIDE | CONFIDENTIAL 2024APPENDIX0505
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comAI: YOUR CAREER CO-PILOTArticial Intelligence can serve as a 24/7 career coach—when used wisely. Whether it’s enhancing your resume or preparing for challenging interview questions, AI tools can streamline your job search. However, remember this: while AI can be a valuable ally, it cannot replace your unique voice, authenticity, or ethical judgment.How to Utilize AI Ethically and Eectively:1. REFINE, DON’T REPLACE, YOUR RESUME AI tools can oer feedback, suggest phrasing, and even reformat your resume to match specic job descriptions. However, avoid leaning on AI to do a complete overhaul, as this can compromise your voice or introduce errors. Use AI for polishing, ensuring the nal outcome reects your individuality. 2. ALIGN WITH TARGET ROLESRequest AI to assess your resume or cover letter against particular job postings. For instance, ask, “What keywords from this job posting am I missing?” Use the insights to ne-tune your application further.3. INTERVIEW PREPARATIONAI can assist in preparing for interviews by generating tailored practice questions based on your industry or role. Request 10 challenging questions along with 10 ideal answers to practice your responses. Yet, keep in mind that authenticity and conversational condence are crucial during actual interviews.53
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE54 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com4. CONDUCT PRELIMINARY RESEARCHTap AI for a quick overview of a company, its leadership, and industry trends. However, consider this as just a starting point. Many AI tools are still evolving and may overlook essential details or provide outdated information. Always verify any information you’ve gathered with reliable sources, such as company websites or LinkedIn proles. Stay Transparent and Ethical1. DON’T FABRICATE EXPERIENCES, SKILLS, OR ACCOMPLISHMENTS WITH AIWhile it might be tempting to embellish your resume, it can lead to problems if you cannot substantiate those claims in an interview.2. DON’T OVERLY DEPEND ON AI FOR COMMUNICATIONYou can use AI tools for editing, but you should truly personalize your thank-you notes, emails, and LinkedIn messages personally; they will feel more genuine and meaningful. 3. RESPECT PRIVACYRefrain from inputting sensitive personal or company information into AI tools without understanding how the data is stored or utilized. Always check your privacy/sharing settings.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com4. LEVERAGE AI FOR NETWORKING ASSISTANCESeek AI’s help in crafting professional yet friendly LinkedIn connection requests or follow-up messages. While you’ll still need to add your unique touch, it can provide a valuable starting point.Remember AI is a support, not a shortcut. It can aid you in working smarter, but your creativity, eort, and authenticity are irreplaceable. When used ethically and with intention, AI can enhance your job search and make the journey feel a bit less overwhelming. 55
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE56 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.com“If you want to y, you have to give up the things that weigh you down.”TONI MORRISON, SONG OF SOLOMON
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comRESOURCES FROM GIANT STEPS CAREERAs you continue your professional journey, these additional resources from Giant Steps Career are designed to support your growth at every career stage. From books and podcasts to online content, these resources extend the guidance oered in this ebook.NEWSLETTERVisit our website to subscribe to our monthly newsletter so that you don’t miss our monthly updates, live events, and online courses. (Don’t worry…we would never sell your name and information, and we won’t send you emails incessantly.)BOOKS BY LEILANI BROWNFROM CAMPUS TO CAREER: 25 Tips For Your First Professional YearA quick and practical guide oering essential advice for interns, recent graduates, and young professionals making their transition into the workforce.YOUR NEXT GIANT STEPS: 25 Practical Tips for Job Search SuccessFocused on taking control of your career journey and unlocking your next opportunity with condence.YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A Career Transition Guide (downloadable eBook)A practical guide to navigating career pivots, reinvention, and advancement for established professionals looking to make meaningful changes in their professional journey.57
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE58 | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comYOUR FIRST JOB (PODCAST)Hosted by Leilani Brown, CEO of Giant Steps, LLC, the show explores the journeys of professionals across industries—how they got their start, lessons learned, and career advice for success.Available on Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon, Audible and YouTube.
YOUR NEXT GIANT RESET: A CAREER COMEBACK GUIDE | GIANT STEPS, LLC | giantstepsllc.comGiant Steps, LLC guides clients to their highest ambitions with bold strategies and better solutions.Giant Steps, LLC is a consulting rm specializing in strategy, culture, career, and education. We provide expert advisory services to executives, boards, and leaders across corporate businesses, non-prot organizations, arts and cultural institutions, healthcare entities, and educational organizations, including colleges, universities, and schools.Additionally, through Giant Steps Career, we oer a range of professional, career, and leadership development programs designed to empower talent at all levels to excel, grow and advance.If you are interested in a customized proposal for transition support, please write to admin@giantstepsllc.com or connect with Leilani Brown on Linkedin.Learn more: giantstepsllc.comCONTACT USWebsite: giantstepsllc.comYouTube: youtube.com/giantstepsllcEmail: admin@giantstepsllc.com59