rejected?

Time to go the route few are going 👇🏼

1. Avoiding the black hole

2. Questions for those you find interesting

How do you find the right people to focus on? This approach uncovers them fast and avoids the route everyone else is going: applications.

I wish more people knew how to scan their connections with purpose.

“Hey, I’m focused on X company; here’s who I just found…”

I’m working with a job seeker right now. Their edge isn’t an impressive resume or flashy background — ’s how they use LinkedIn search every time they apply to a role.

Most people would:

Scroll the job post, apply, and then hope for the best.

Maybe scan the company page and move on.

If that’s been your playbook, I get it. It’s not your fault. We’ve been taught to treat job hunting like a numbers game.

But here’s something worth trying: Before you apply, run a connection check.

Also, I noticed something else about how they move…

They never settle for one contact.

They filter by company, then add “2nd” and “3rd” degrees in their search. They look for past roles, current teams, and even mutual schools—to get names and context fast.

It’s a smart way to build a warm trail.

What has come of it?

Rejection doesn’t leave them stunned for days. Instead of there being one role they were going after, now they have a plethora of people who are living the life they want.

Well, at least it seems that way from the outside; now it’s time to land a conversation with these folks!

Also, it doesn’t end with the common ground—if you can’t find that, go after your interest in the role. Remember, come from the angle of information—not a referral.

Here’s a few messages you can send (under 200 characters):

“Hi [Name], I’m exploring opportunities at [Company] and saw your profile — would love to hear about your experience and what it’s like working there.”

“Hi [Name], your work at [Company] stood out as I’m researching roles. I’d love to connect and learn how you got started there — thanks in advance.”

“Hey [Name], I’ve been looking into [Company] and enjoyed what I saw on your profile. Mind if we connect? Would love to hear how you’re liking it there.”

Keep holding conversations 🤞🏼

Questions for those you find interesting…

• What is the team building towards currently?

• What haven’t most people considered about this role?

• How did you first get connected with the team [here]?

Before you leave…

I’m hosting office hours tomorrow with my Conversations > Applications community. Jump in, ask questions, and then go enjoy your day. This work isn’t easy to do alone!

If you want to join, respond to this email.

I teach the exact framework I use to help job seekers attract hiring teams and show up to a career that they enjoy.

Join Conversations > Applications here.

Friendly reminder: Rejection needs to turn into fuel.

Dominic