Keerthana

Here’s my shortest journey to a job. Strategy was everything.

12 applications. 11 rejections. 1 interview. 1 offer. 1 month.

That's my entire job search story.

While others talk about hundreds of applications and months of struggle, I took a different approach after completing my Master of Social Work.

Quality over quantity.

Deep preparation over mass applications.

Standing out instead of blending in.

It started with a simple realisation: being just another resume in the pile wasn't going to cut it.

I needed something that would make recruiters pause.

Something most candidates don't bother with.

Something that would showcase not just what I've done, but who I am and the value I bring.

That's when I discovered the power of a comprehensive portfolio (Thanks Unimad) and the Value proposition document

Think about it, how many social work graduates actually create a portfolio?

How many take the time to visually map out their skills, experiences, and unique value proposition?

Almost none.

I became that one-in-a-thousand candidate who took the extra step.

Each rejection taught me something.

Each "no" refined my approach.

I wasn't just applying to jobs; I was learning, adapting, and improving with every submission.

My portfolio wasn't just a collection of past work, it told them my unique story and showcased my approach to social work, my philosophy, my case studies (anonymised, of course), and the significant impact of my interventions.

The Visual Profile Document crystallised my value proposition in a way no resume could.

It answered the question every employer is really asking: "Why you over everyone else?"

From June to July. That's all it took.

One month from start to finish.

Not because I was lucky. Not because the job market was easy. But because I approached the process strategically, focusing on standing out rather than standing in line.

Looking back, would I change anything about my journey?

Not a thing.

To those still on their journey:

Remember that it's not always about how many applications you send. Sometimes, it's about making those few applications count.

Network strategically because meaningful connections often open doors that job applications alone can't.

And remember, every setback is a step toward success if you're willing to learn from it.

The mad story isn't always about endurance. Sometimes, it's about precision.