I Stopped Applying on Job Boards and Got 4 Interviews: Here’s How
- Sarah Bryer
- Mar 28
- 3 min read
Job boards. For some, they’re a goldmine of opportunities. For others, they’re a source of frustration, wasted time, and endless scrolling. If you’ve ever felt like a needle in a haystack when applying for jobs online, you’re not alone.
One of my clients, let’s call her Emma, felt exactly the same.
Emma hated job boards. No matter how much I tried to convince her to keep her options open, she had an aversion to them. She’d spend hours scrolling, sending out half-hearted applications, and getting annoyed when she didn’t hear back. It bored her. It frustrated her. And it wasn’t working.
So, we stopped.
Instead of forcing a strategy that didn’t suit her, we created a plan that played to her strengths and preferences. The results? Four interviews in just a couple of weeks, three job offers, and a fantastic new role.
Here’s how we did it.
Why Job Boards Aren’t the Only Option
Job boards can be a great resource, but they’re not the only way to land a job. In fact, relying solely on job boards can leave you feeling disheartened. The competition is fierce, and it’s easy for your application to get lost in the shuffle.
If you’re tired of scrolling and applying without results, it’s time to rethink your strategy. There are other, more targeted ways to find opportunities that align with your skills and goals.

Emma’s Custom Job Search Strategy
When Emma and I sat down for a strategy session, we focused on creating a plan that worked for her. Here’s what we did:
1. Set Up Detailed Job Alerts
Instead of wasting time on endless searches, we set up detailed job alerts. This ensured that only the most relevant opportunities landed in her inbox, saving her time and energy.
2. Leveraged Her Network
We identified key people in Emma’s industry and created a plan to connect with them. Networking can feel daunting, but when done right, it’s one of the most effective ways to find opportunities.
3. Created a Recruiter Contact List
I helped Emma compile a list of recruiters who specialised in her field. She reached out to them directly, building relationships and positioning herself as a strong candidate for their roles.
4. Built a LinkedIn Strategy
A strong LinkedIn presence can open doors you didn’t even know existed. For Emma, we:
Optimised her profile to showcase her skills and achievements.
Identified connections to reach out to.
Crafted personalised DMs to start meaningful conversations.
Planned virtual or in-person meetings to maximise her return on investment of time.
The Results? 4 Interviews, 3 Offers, and a Dream Job
Within weeks, Emma had four interviews lined up—none of which came from job boards. Instead, they came through referrals, recruiters, and her LinkedIn connections.
She received three job offers and negotiated a fantastic package (after another coaching session with me, of course).
The best part? Emma felt empowered throughout the process. She wasn’t just sending applications into the void—she was building genuine connections and taking control of her career.
There’s More Than One Way to Find a Great Job
If you’re feeling stuck or frustrated with your job search, remember this: there’s more than one way to land your dream role.
Hate job boards? Focus on networking.
Struggling with applications? Reach out to recruiters.
Feeling invisible? Build your LinkedIn presence.
The key is to find a strategy that works for you.
I specialise in creating personalised job search strategies that align with your strengths and goals. Whether you’re tired of job boards or just need a fresh perspective, I’m here to help. Book a free call here .
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