Tips to Get Hired: Go Inside the Mind of a Hiring Manager
Want to know what hiring managers are really thinking? In this episode of The Glass Sessions, Courtney and Lauren pull back the curtain on the hiring process and share practical, behind-the-scenes insights that can give any job seeker a serious edge.
Whether you’re a recent grad entering a tough job market or a professional looking to level up, this conversation is packed with advice to help you stand out in the right way.
What Today’s Job Market Looks Like
Courtney shares the tough reality: unemployment among recent grads is rising. But don’t panic, knowing the market helps you play smarter. Flexibility, adaptability, and clarity about what you bring to the table are key.
Inside the Mind of a Hiring Manager
What’s it like on the other side of the interview table? Spoiler: it’s busy. Hiring managers are balancing team needs, shifting timelines, and constant decision-making. Candidates who understand this, by being prepared, respectful of time, and proactive, tend to rise to the top.
Key takeaways:
Follow up professionally (don’t ghost or assume silence = rejection).
Stay in motion - keep pursuing multiple opportunities at once.
Show empathy - your interviewer is human, too.
The Interview: Tell a Story That Sticks
Storytelling isn’t just for TED Talks. Use your interviews to craft compelling narratives about past challenges, results, and growth. Courtney and Lauren stress the value of practicing with a friend or mentor so your answers are clear, confident, and customized.
Interview breakdown:
Initial Screen: Quick vibe check - are you a general match?
Deep Dive Interviews: Expect project-based questions and situational scenarios.
Follow-up: Clear, timely communication after the interview shows initiative and professionalism.
First Impressions Matter: Resume + Cover Letter
Hiring managers don’t just want a list of job duties, they want impact. Tailor your resume to each job, using keywords and quantifiable results. Make your value obvious at a glance.
Talking Money: Salary Conversations
Negotiation doesn’t have to be scary. We walk through how to confidently discuss compensation, from knowing your worth to understanding company pay structures. This is about advocacy, not arrogance.
Bonus Tips That Go a Long Way
Don’t take interviews from your car (especially not while driving!).
Ask thoughtful questions - you're evaluating them too.
Journal your wins to boost confidence before the big day.
Bottom line? Every step in the job search is a chance to show up as the colleague they didn’t know they needed. Prepare, be thoughtful, and bring your whole self to the process.
🎧 Tune in to hear it all—including the real talk that doesn’t always make it onto job boards. And if you're ready for personalized guidance, contact us today for career support designed with you in mind.
