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Job boards feel like shouting into the wind, and for many smart, seasoned professionals, that silence is maddening. We sat down with career transition coach and author Gina Riley to unpack why “qualified” rarely wins on its own—and how clarity, research, and real relationships move you to the top of the shortlist. Gina shares the thinking behind her book, Qualified Isn’t Enough, and the nine-step Career Velocity model that helps candidates articulate a unique value proposition and turn interviews into business conversations.

Across a fast-paced, practical conversation, we map the journey from rambling bios to crisp narratives that hiring teams can use. You’ll hear how to build your career thread from strengths, values, and motivated skills; why dormant ties are your most overlooked asset; and how to approach outreach with curiosity instead of desperation. We go beyond company webpages into investor letters, competitor analysis, and leadership interviews, then show you how to bring those insights into meetings as testable hypotheses. For new grads, mid-career changers, and executives alike, the message is consistent: unless you get seen, you won’t get heard.

We also dive into executive presence—how you look, speak, and act—and the modern mandate to read the room across virtual and in-person settings. Gina Riley introduces her RARE framework: Research, Alignment, Read the room, Evaluate the fit. You’ll learn smart questions to ask peers and leaders, ways to avoid the ATS black hole, and why volunteer leadership can quietly showcase your value at scale. If you’ve been applying widely with little traction, this is your reset: fewer applications, stronger relationships, and a narrative that makes you the obvious hire.

Enjoyed the conversation? Follow and rate the show, share this episode with a friend who’s job searching, and leave a review telling us which strategy you’ll try first.

Music, lyrics, guitar and singing by Dr Ariel Rosita King

Teach me to live one day at a time
with courage love and a sense of pride.
Giving me the ability to love and accept myself
so I can go and give it to someone else.
Teach me to live one day at a time.....

The Business of Life
Dr Ariella (Ariel) Rosita King
Original Song, "Teach Me to Live one Day At A Time"
written, guitar and vocals by Dr. Ariel Rosita King

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