12 Counter-Intuitive Job Search Tips from a Former Recruiter Turned TikTok Star

A former recruiter with nearly a decade of experience shares unconventional advice for navigating today's job market. Emily Durham, now a content creator with almost one million TikTok followers, reveals the dos and don'ts that can make or break your job search.

1. Don't Customize Your Résumé for Every Job

Customizing résumés for each application is dated advice. The real problem is that no one reads them. Recruiters can tell when AI has been used, and it doesn't make you stand out.

2. Do Make One Solid Résumé

Instead, create one strong résumé that highlights keywords from your target roles. Use AI only to validate keywords, not to write your résumé. Avoid high-volume AI applications—they're ineffective.

3. Don't Treat Networking Like a Transaction

Cold messages asking for referrals are ignored. Build genuine relationships first.

4. Do Butter People Up by Asking Valuable Questions

Schedule calls to learn from others. Ask about their career, then naturally segue into your job search. Attend in-person company events and maintain connections with periodic check-ins.

5. Don't Overdo or Underdo LinkedIn

Avoid posting AI-generated fluff or refusing to post altogether. Balance is key.

6. Do Keep Your LinkedIn Updated

Post once a week (e.g., reshare industry articles) and comment twice a week on target companies' posts. This boosts your visibility without being an influencer.

7. Don't Give Companies an Excuse Not to Hire You

Avoid public criticism on LinkedIn. Use anonymous platforms like Glassdoor or Fishbowl to share feedback.

8. Do Ask the Interviewer About Their Weekend

Small talk makes you memorable. Ask personal questions to build rapport.

9. Don't Forget the Basics

Prepare for standard questions like "Tell me about yourself." Keep answers under 90 seconds and avoid filler words.

10. Do Be Freeflowing, No Scripts

Interviews are conversations, not interrogations. Be well-prepared but natural.

11. Don't Overly Use the Word 'We'

Use "I" to highlight your individual contributions. Aim for 70% "I" and 30% "we".

12. Do Turn Off Social Media When Needed

Avoid LinkedIn doomscrolling. Mute keywords like "job hunting" to reduce anxiety. Treat your job search like shift work to prevent burnout.

If today were day one of my job search, I would structure my week: Mondays for applying, Tuesdays for LinkedIn outreach, Wednesdays for networking events. This approach preserves sanity and prevents burnout.