Lessons from Sharon Hamersley, The Resume Coach, on Thriving in a Topsy-Turvy Job Market

In a world where layoffs, automation, and shifting industries are an ever-present reality, navigating your career is less about being reactive and more about being prepared. We sat down with Sharon Hamersley—Central Ohio’s famed “Resume Coach”—to share insights on how to stay employable, build a robust job search plan, and leverage free resources no matter your career stage.

Staying Vigilant with Your Job Search in an Uncertain Job Market

Many believe that being a model employee is the best safeguard against job loss. As Hamersley notes, however, “You can have the best boss in the entire world… and then boom, they’re promoted,” or the company reorganizes, automates, merges, or is bought out.

‘All these are red flags, especially for those in middle management or roles vulnerable to shifting business priorities. The message is clear: Don’t operate out of fear, but remain aware. Read local business journals, talk to colleagues, and stay attuned to leadership changes and market trends.

The 21st Century Job Search: It’s Not What It Used To Be

Gone are the days when you could submit a generic resume to dozens of open positions and land a job. Today’s job search is highly strategic and often digital. Hamersley points out that “people are still doing 20th-century job searches,” and urges individuals to understand modern processes, including digital applications, video interviews, and the crucial role of LinkedIn.

Before diving in, do a self-audit: Identify your core strengths, preferred role levels, and the industries that best suit you. Don’t fall into the “I’ll take any job” trap; employers want to see that you can solve their specific problems, not just fill a seat.

Networking: Information, Not Begging

A common misconception is that networking equates to begging for a job, but as Hamersley stresses, it’s better viewed as an exchange of information. Whether you’re connecting with an old colleague, attending an alumni event, or volunteering, the aim is to gather insights: “What’s it like to work here? Are there opportunities to grow?”

Professional associations, alumni networks, local nonprofit activities, even your children’s sports teams or religious communities, can become networking gold mines. And always, always ask, “Who else should I talk to?”

Leveraging Free & Local Resources

While private coaching can be a worthwhile investment, countless free resources are available. “Every college campus,” Carol reminds, “has a career services office—use it from day one.” Similarly, most public libraries, such as the Columbus Metropolitan Library, offer job seeker databases, LinkedIn Learning, and even appointments with research librarians to guide company research.

Beyond libraries, agencies like Ohio Means Jobs, Goodwill, and Jewish Family Services, plus national resources accessed via 211 helplines, offer workshops, resume help, and one-on-one counseling to job seekers of all backgrounds.

Tools for Your Job Search Toolbox

A solid resume is just the start. Sharon recommends keeping a dynamic set of documents, including:

  • A tailored, two-page resume that highlights your best-fit experiences and skills.
  • A flexible cover letter template to personalize for each job opportunity.
  • An up-to-date LinkedIn profile with a professional photo, a clear “About” section, and a growing network.
  • A reference log and record of recognitions—capture compliments, emails, and certificates, and store them in personal (not work) files.

Tracking your efforts is key: Use a spreadsheet or notes app to document every application, contact, and follow-up. As Carol shares, the prepared candidate is often the first to get the call-back.

Transitioning Toward Retirement? Preparation Still Matters

For those eyeing retirement or a less traditional next chapter, Sharon advises broad informational interviews. Talk to others who have made the transition, gather ideas from your network, and embrace it as a new beginning rather than an ending.

Growth Is Your Responsibility

Ultimately, the responsibility to remain marketable lies with you. Set quarterly reminders to update your skills, explore LinkedIn Learning or Coursera via your library, and network consistently—” not just when you need a job.” By being proactive, you’re not being paranoid; you’re being prepared.

We would love to hear from you.

Give us your feedback, or suggest a topic, by leaving us a voice message.

Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com.

Find us on Facebook.

Please review our podcast on Google!

Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2025 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0

The views and opinions expressed by the experts interviewed on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations. The information provided in these interviews is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals for specific advice or information related to their individual circumstances. The podcast host and producers do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided by the experts interviewed. Listener discretion is advised.

Sharon_Hamersley_Issues_in_todays_job_market_Resources_2025