The "Apply" button is broken. Your network isn't.


I’ll be honest: the first few weeks of 2026 and the job hunt were quiet. Too quiet.

I was doing what everyone tells you to do—hitting "Apply" on job boards, tailoring resumes, and waiting. The result? Total silence.

But lately, things have started to pick up steam. I’m finally seeing movement and having the right conversations. But here is the kicker: Not a single interview has come from a cold application.

Every bit of momentum I have right now has come from two things:

  1. Staying active here on LinkedIn and blogging about my industry.
  2. Leaning on my incredible network.

The "Apply" button is a lottery. Your network is an ecosystem.

When I was let go recently due to company-wide cost-cutting (RIF), it was a gut punch. It’s easy to feel like you’re shouting into a void when you’re job hunting alone. Finding a community like Phyl.org was a game-changer; the philosophy of "Never Go It Alone" is exactly what I needed.

I also wouldn't be where I am without the support of some amazing people. A huge thank you to Kristin Flandreau, Tracie Stamm , Jenni Adair, and so many others who have shared advice, made introductions, or just listened.

If you’re in the middle of the grind right now, my advice is this: Stop refreshing the job boards for an hour and go grab a virtual coffee with an old colleague. Write that post you’ve been thinking about.

Don't go it alone. Everything is your network.

#JobSearch #Networking #CareerGrowth #Community #Phyl #Hiring

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