Hi, Reader!

This week, I want to share something that happened to me personally because it’s a perfect example of why networking matters, and why so many job- and gig-seekers end up discouraged for reasons that have nothing to do with their talent.

I applied for a job recently that I was excited about, and I even had a second application lined up for another role at the same organization, when...

Someone in my network reached out on my behalf to check in with the hiring team.

So far, I practiced what I preached, right? My resume was on point, cover letter awesome, and I networked - meaning I reached out to a contact I had in the organization (I had an inside man!).

And here’s what came back:

Both roles had already been filled before the postings even went up.

Without that connection, I would’ve spent the next few weeks:

• refreshing my inbox
• debating if I should follow up again
• questioning whether I was as strong a fit for the role as I thought

And Instead?

I got clarity: quickly, directly, and without the emotional rollercoaster.

Was it disappointing? Sure.

But was it a failure? No way.

It was:

• information
• direction
• time saved
• energy re-routed to opportunities that actually exist

Networking didn’t “get” me the job, but it kept me from wasting precious time, energy, and confidence spiraling over something that was never truly available.

Why This Matters for YOU

Here’s the truth you’re not told in job search world:

A lot of job postings go up because they have to, for all sorts of reasons...

By the time you actually see the listing, even if it just hit the sites, the decision has often been made already.

All this is to say that the length of your job search or that you haven't got a job yet is NOT a reflection of your value or your resume. It’s about the system.

And this is why reaching out, reconnecting, and letting people know you’re exploring new opportunities matters so deeply.

You're reaching out... NOT to ask for a job. You're asking for:

• information
• truth
• perspective
• clarity

One person on the inside can save you weeks of unnecessary doubt.

The Networking Jumpstart Toolkit is $25 this week until Cyber Monday

If this story hit home, or if you know you’ve been avoiding reaching out because it feels awkward or unclear, I have a resource for you:

The Networking Jumpstart Toolkit includes:

✅10+ customizable outreach templates
✅A Contact Tracker
✅A Follow-Up Checklist
✅Mini-Lessons that go deeper into the template directions and prompts

After December 1st (Cyber Monday), the price goes up to $50 until December 31st, after which it will be $97 for good.

👉 Grab it before the price increase​

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💡 Cue the Shift

This week, consider:

Who is one person you could reconnect with to get some information? NOT to pitch yourself or ask for a job.

Just to check in, get perspective, and stay in the loop.

A single conversation can change your whole strategy. It happens all the time. This past week it happened for me, and it will happen for you, too.

🌱 The Takeaway

You deserve...

⭐Clarity, not confusion.

⭐Information, not endless guessing.

⭐Direction, not burnout.

And if you want help figuring out where to go next, or how to tailor this strategy to your situation, I’d love to talk.

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✨ Want personalized guidance? Book a free 20-minute Clarity Call.

If you want support with:

• what to say when reaching out
• figuring out who to contact
• understanding job postings
• strengthening your materials
• accessing the “hidden job market”

I’m here.

No pressure. Just support.

👉 Book your free Clarity Call HERE.​

With warmth and clarity,
Gladys

P.S. If you’ve already purchased the toolkit, reply and tell me which template or mini-lesson you’re using first. I love hearing how it’s landing. 💛