The Uncommon Career Podcast: Transformative Career Coaching & Job Search Strategies - podcast cover

The Uncommon Career Podcast: Transformative Career Coaching & Job Search Strategies

Patricia Ortega | Transformational Career Coach | Career Counselortheuncommoncareer.com
Navigate your career with The Uncommon Career Podcast. Designed for professionals seeking strategic career moves, this podcast is your compass to success. If you’re a mid-level professional, you’ll have the guidance you need at every phase of your career transition. Hosted by Patricia Ortega, a master’s educated Career Counselor and Transformational Coach, this podcast equips you with laser-focused strategies for your next move. Gain clarity on your career direction, craft a persuasive and influential brand, and harness a competitive edge that sets professionals apart. Patricia’s proven expertise in navigating career crossroads ensures you’re armed with the tools you need to thrive, and expert guests bring practical expertise and insider information. Topics include getting clarity on your career direction; crafting a career story; building career confidence; writing a targeted resume/LinkedIn profile and branding materials; interviewing; and handling negotiations – as well as career growth and advancement strategies. Tune in to The Uncommon Career Podcast for an exclusive look and expert how-to’s of successful career transition and advancement. More information at https://theuncommoncareer.com
Last refreshed:
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

121. Leadership: Balancing Empathy and Authority, w/Julianna Yau Yorgan

Struggling with leading with heart? Explore how leaders can maintain authority while leading with empathy in this episode. Learn the importance of striking a balance between being empathetic and making logical business decisions. Key topics include understanding the emotional impact of business decisions, the role of trust and transparency, and practical strategies to incorporate empathy without compromising authority. Tune in further for real-life examples and actionable insights to help you na...

Jul 22, 202532 min

120. Overcoming the Career Comparison Trap

This happens to every professional, but now's the time you can learn to overcome the career comparison trap. In this episode, learn the common pitfalls of comparison during a job search and discover practical advice on how to turn this potentially demoralizing habit into a source of motivation. Understand here that comparison is a natural brain process, but one that needs to be managed intentionally. Three common scenarios are listed where comparison arise, as well as the importance of seeking k...

Jul 15, 202519 min

119. Take a Test to Get Hired? Learn About the Hogan Assessment from Porschia Parker Griffin, PCC

In this episode, learn the intricacies of the Hogan Assessment and its use in the hiring and selection process with guest Porschia Parker Griffin. Explore how it assesses personality, development aspects, and values, making it a vital tool used by 75% of Fortune 500 companies. Discover tips on preparing for the assessment, and emphasizing the importance of aligning personal and organizational values. Timestamps 00:42 What is the Hogan Assessment? 02:01 Hogan in the Hiring Process & Developme...

Jul 08, 202535 min

118. Rejection and Ghosting: How to Bounce Back in the Job Search

In this episode, explore how to view job rejection and ghosting as opportunities rather than setbacks. Learn and emphasize the importance of seeing rejections as valuable data points and potential starting points for new professional relationships. Process depersonalizing rejection, leveraging faith and emotional tools like the Kubler-Ross grief cycle, recognizing and interrupting negative thought spirals, and celebrating micro wins. We'll Talk About: 01:11 Rejection as Data: Analyzing Feedback ...

Jul 01, 202521 min

117. The Introvert's Career Edge, w/Matthew Pollard

Listen to today's episode featuring Matthew Pollard, bestselling author of 'The Introvert's Edge to Networking.' Discover why introverts have a natural advantage in networking, and how even the most introverted can thrive without feeling fake or overwhelmed. Learn the importance of leveraging introverted strengths such as listening and empathy and introduces strategies to authentically network and advance in careers. Timestamps 02:57 Key Skills for Introverted Networkers 05:23 Matthew Pollard's ...

Jun 24, 202539 min

116. Prep for an Interview in 30 Minutes

In this episode, discover how to effectively prepare for an interview in just 30 minutes using a simple five-step power prep method. Learn to set the tone with a strong 'tell me about yourself' story, align your strengths with the job requirements, handle gaps confidently, and ask insightful questions to leave a lasting impression. Know the importance of strategic preparation and offers further resources for a comprehensive job search and career transitions. We'll Talk About: 00:56 Step-by-Step ...

Jun 17, 202517 min

115. When Your Team Shrinks: How to Work and Lead Well with Little Resources

Understand the depth of the challenges and strategies of leading small teams in this episode. Tune in with Patricia and Julianna as they discuss the importance of focusing on quality over quantity, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining morale when resources are limited. Key topics include the strategic use of AI and outsourcing, renegotiating success criteria with upper management, and fostering a culture of trust, flexibility, and development within smaller teams. Get guidance on how to manage wo...

Jun 10, 202528 min

114. Turn Experience Gaps Into Interview Strengths

Learn how to approach job interviews with confidence despite lacking certain skills or experience in this episode. Including exploring strategies to pivot your mindset from self-doubt to intellectual potential, and discovering practical techniques for answering tough questions and framing your experience creatively. This guide emphasizes the importance of curiosity, emotional intelligence, and leveraging transferable skills. By focusing on your ability to learn and adapt, rather than perfectioni...

Jun 03, 202523 min

113. What's Next When Your Current Role No Longer Fits? With Giselle Moratin (3 of 3)

In this episode, Patricia and Giselle discuss the importance of getting clear on your next career move. Outline how to overcome the top four mistakes when seeking clarity about a new role, share success stories, and provide actionable steps to build your career strategy. Cover the significance of self-reflection, exploring non-traditional career options, networking effectively, and validating your new career choice. If you're at a crossroads in your career or looking to pivot, this episode offer...

May 27, 202532 min

112. Boost Your Interview Without Changing a Word

Learn the importance of voice delivery in interviews and how it can significantly impact your success. Listen in to learn the three keys to refine your voice — knowing what to look for, preparing your approach, and adjusting your tone. By varying pitch, volume, speed, and inflection, you can make your responses more compelling, memorable, and persuasive. We'll Talk About: 00:21 Preparing for Your Interview 00:40 The Importance of Delivery 02:31 Understanding Tone and Its Impact 05:16 Steps to Im...

May 20, 202511 min

111. Just got hired? Set Up for Your Next Promotion from Day 1, with Julianna Yau Yorgan

In this episode, Patricia and Julianna discuss the importance of planning ahead for your next promotion while settling into a new role. Understand the benefits of focusing on long-term goals rather than just immediate achievements, and how strategic onboarding can smooth your career transition. Tune in to learn the value of leveraging relationships, setting boundaries, understanding organizational dynamics, and developing relevant skills. Furthermore, delve into targeted networking, positioning ...

May 13, 202532 min

110. How to Structure and Draft Your Tell Me About Yourself Response

Listen in for an in-depth guide to crafting a compelling answer to the common interview question, 'Tell me about yourself.' Learn the two-pronged approach to organizing your response: chronologically, from the initial spark of interest to the desired job, and structurally, from big picture to detailed anecdotes. Learn vital elements such as repeated name mention, sparking interest, aligning with the big picture, sharing career highlights like a movie trailer, and addressing potential questions a...

May 06, 202522 min

109. LinkedIn Action Steps to Get Seen & Hired Faster, with Giselle Moratin (2 of 3)

This episode features Patricia Ortega with career expert Giselle Moratin in discussing essential tips for job seekers to enhance their LinkedIn profiles. Highlighting the significance of visibility settings, strategic keyword usage, and showcasing your portfolio and volunteer work, the discussion emphasizes the impact of a well-curated LinkedIn presence. Avoiding negative posts about recruiters or employers and focusing on professional branding are also covered. Learn to underscore the importanc...

Apr 29, 202536 min

108. 3 Steps to Strategize Your "Tell Me About Yourself" Interview Response

Delve into creating a compelling 'tell me about yourself' response to make a strong first impression in job interviews. Cover the importance of identifying the core problem you solve for potential employers and aligning your career history with the company's needs. Learn how to form a strategic response that highlights your strengths, accomplishments, and relevance to the job. Additionally, tune in for tips on anticipating and addressing hiring managers' questions and concerns to build trust and...

Apr 22, 202515 min

107. High Pressure Work Environments: How to Manage, Diagnose and Respond to Them

In this episode, Julianna and Patricia discuss handling high-pressure work environments. They explore external and internal pressures, offering insights on diagnosing burnout and finding solutions. Tune in for advice on proactive communication with supervisors to manage expectations and workload redistribution. Highlighting healthy and unhealthy pressure and providing practical tips for maintaining well-being and sustainable work habits. This episode is part of the Elevated Leadership Series, co...

Apr 15, 202534 min

106. The Confidence Killer: Why Smart People Freeze in Interviews

In this episode, delve into the psychology of interview anxiety and provide actionable strategies to overcome it. Learn the common pitfalls of 'what if' thinking and how it impacts performance. Learn how to shift your focus from self-doubt to positive action, emphasizing perception, preparation, and brand development. Discover how to acknowledge, articulate, internalize, and own your value for interview success. Additional tips include grounding techniques to manage in-the-moment nerves. Whether...

Apr 08, 202517 min

105. Making Networking Easy: How to Build Organic Relationships, with Giselle Moratin (1 of 3)

Patricia Ortega welcomes career coach Giselle Moratin to discuss her journey from hospitality to career advising. Giselle shares her passion for helping educators transition to corporate roles and offers valuable networking strategies. In this episode, learn the importance of starting with familiar contacts, leveraging association board members, and maintaining connections through thank-you notes and resume sharing. Touch and learn keys to overcoming networking fears, the law of reciprocity, and...

Apr 01, 202532 min

104. You've Applied to 100+ Jobs and... Nothing. Troubleshooting Your Job Search

In this episode, learn the critical mindset shift needed for an effective job search in today's challenging market. Explore the importance of focusing on controllable factors and identifying opportunities in any economic downturn. Key strategies include effective networking, targeted applications, and communication skills during interviews. Practical tips cover how to optimize your resume, LinkedIn profile, and how to frame conversations to demonstrate value to potential employers. For those see...

Mar 28, 202523 min

103. Are You Burning Out? Assess and Prevent Work/Job Search Burnout

In this enlightening episode, delve deep into the complexities of burnout, debunk common myths, and explore its various forms with burnout expert Lydia. Providing a comprehensive overview of burnout's 'big three' symptoms—exhaustion, lack of confidence, and cynicism. Learn the impact of burnout on job searches, the signs of entering crisis mode, and the differences between internal and external causes. Lydia introduces practical strategies like job crafting and the importance of mental detachmen...

Mar 18, 202536 min

102. Three Career Essentials You Need to Succeed in Today’s Job Market, with Jamila Brown

In this episode, Patricia and Jamila discusses the importance of personal branding, emphasizing the compounding effect of investing in oneself. They highlight the shift in the job market dynamics and how individuals can use this to their advantage to stand out. Learn strategies for optimizing resumes and LinkedIn profiles to attract opportunities and impress hiring managers. Timestamps 01:50 Avoiding the Commodity Trap 07:45 Leveraging LinkedIn for Career Success 15:09 Anticipating Employer Need...

Mar 07, 202537 min

101. Office Politics: When You're Close to the Boss's Boss

Julianna and Patricia dive into managing complex relationships within workplace hierarchies. They discuss the delicate dynamics of having a strong connection with a boss's boss while maintaining trust and communication with your direct manager. Tips include setting boundaries on how publicly the relationship is displayed, being mindful of assumptions, and strategies for fostering open communication. Learn how to assess workplace culture and motives to ensure ethical behavior as well as to cover ...

Mar 04, 202521 min

100. Ten Resume Success Markers Hiring Managers Look For

In this milestone 100th episode, dive into essential resume and LinkedIn advice, including the importance of a LinkedIn profile, common resume mistakes to avoid, and actionable tips to make your resume stand out to recruiters and hiring managers. Learn how to replace vague adjectives and adverbs by emphasizing specific accomplishments, tailor your resume for your target role, and more. We'll Talk About: 02:14 Three Important Principles 03:58 Tip 1: Remove Adjectives and Adverbs 09:00 Tip 2: Swap...

Feb 25, 202542 min

99. LinkedIn is The New Resume: Hook the Employer with Your LinkedIn Profile

Are you struggling to stand out in a sea of job applications? In this episode, Patricia Ortega shares invaluable insights on transforming your LinkedIn profile to attract recruiters and hiring managers. With over 75 hours of research, Patricia emphasizes the importance of branding through key elements like your headline, banner image, and about section. Learn how to craft a compelling narrative that showcases your unique value proposition and accomplishments, making you irresistible to potential...

Feb 18, 202518 min

98. How to Have a Faith-Centered Work Life w/ Darren Shearer

Darren Shearer discusses how to live a Christ-centered work life in secular settings. He explores the influence each employee has on organizational culture and emphasizes the importance of making disciples through one's professional conduct. Shearer introduces concepts from his book 'The Christ Centered Company', highlighting the significance of embedding Christ's mission in everyday work activities. Practical tips include treating every interaction as if Jesus is the recipient, maintaining a ha...

Feb 11, 202534 min

97. Get Crystal Clear on Your Job Search & Get Hired Faster

In this episode, Patricia provides actionable advice on refining your job search strategy by achieving crystal clear clarity. She emphasizes focusing on a single target role, optimizing your branding, and understanding the importance of effective communication over experience. Key steps include aligning your materials with your desired role, exploring company culture and industry fit, and leveraging foundational values. Further, it highlights the importance of detailed groundwork to avoid prolon...

Feb 04, 202517 min

96. How to Manage a Micromanager (And How to Spot One in an Interview)

Have you ever felt stifled by a micromanager? In this engaging episode, Patricia and Julianna dive deep into the nuances of micromanagement versus structured leadership. They explore how micromanagers often act out of fear and insecurity, leading to a lack of trust and autonomy for their team members. Julianna shares practical strategies for navigating these challenging dynamics, emphasizing the importance of proactive communication and understanding your manager's expectations. By fostering a s...

Jan 28, 202538 min

95. It’s time: Signs to Look for a New Job

Are you feeling stuck in your job and wondering if it's time to move on? In this episode, host Patricia Ortega explores the signs that indicate it might be time for a career change. With nearly half of employees disengaged at work, Patricia discusses internal nudges like feeling undervalued and unproductive, as well as external factors such as toxic work environments and stagnant teams. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing opportunities for growth and the potential for salary increases w...

Jan 21, 202517 min

94. The Value Equation: How to Own and Communicate Your Career Confidence, with Jamila Brown

In this episode, career strategist Jamila Brown joins the Patricia Ortega to discuss how to define your value as both a human and a professional. Join in exploring the misconception of separating personal and professional lives, which can lead to burnout, and emphasize understanding one's personal value to exude confidence in the workplace. Jamila introduces a 'formula for value' involving confidence, belief, and subtraction of fear, and highlights the importance of reflecting on childhood exper...

Jan 14, 202527 min

93. Your 2025 Career Advancement Plan: Goals, Performance Review, & Leader Buy-in

In this episode, Patricia explores effective strategies for setting actionable goals that align with your organization's objectives, ensuring a win-win scenario. Discover how to prepare for your performance review by collecting metrics and crafting compelling narratives that highlight your contributions. Furthermore, she discusses the importance of engaging your leadership in career conversations, using open-ended questions to foster collaboration. With practical tips for maintaining accountabil...

Jan 07, 202533 min

92. Reach Your Goals in 2025: How to Make Your Goals Stick, With Dale Wilsher (Pt 3 of 3)

In this last of the three-part Annual Planning Series, Patricia and Dale focus on strategies to ensure goals stick throughout 2025. They emphasize the importance of writing down goals, displaying them visibly, and involving accountability partners. They also discuss practical tools like time-blocking and using tech to support goal achievement. Click here to download a checklist of all the ways you can Make Your 2025 Goals Stick We'll Talk About 00:00 Introduction and Recap 00:30 Setting Goals fo...

Dec 31, 202425 min
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android