Careering with Cameron

Kevin Cameron

Welcome to the Careering with Cameron podcast, your home for all things career strategy and job search success! Hosted by Kevin Cameron, this is the safe place for you to ask all the "dumb questions" about finding a job. What to Expect: Are you finishing college or graduate school and just starting your career? Are you a bright, data-driven individual in a STEM field (Science, Tech, Engineering, or Math) who may struggle with people skills? If you're wondering "what's next," you are in the right place. Kevin's goal is to give you a clear, step-by-step roadmap for your career journey. We'll walk through the often-confusing process of finding a job so you can feel ready and empowered. The ultimate goal is not just to apply for positions, but to find meaningful work that aligns with your passion. Meet Your Host: Kevin Cameron brings over 20 years of experience as a recruiter and is an ICF-certified professional coach. Having been "on the other side of the desk" for two decades, he's bringing the inside scoop to help you: *Think like a recruiter so you can land the job you want. *Get actionable advice and best practices for resume writing, interview questions, negotiating offers, and more. *You don't have to navigate this career search alone! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Be sure to subscribe and follow us on social media @careeringwithcameron_ on Instagram!

  1. JAN 28

    Here's How to Land Your Dream Internship

    Finding your first internship can feel like a "chicken and the egg" situation - how do you get experience if you don't have any yet? In this episode of Careering With Cameron, host Kevin Cameron breaks down the mystery of the internship search for students and parents alike. Kevin Cameron provides a clear, actionable roadmap to help you navigate the process with confidence, reminding listeners that companies hire interns specifically because they know you are still in the learning phase. You will learn why you don't need to have the next 50 years of your life planned out to start applying today. Kevin Cameron explains how to "audit" your life for experience - from class projects to volunteer work - and how to build a "Master Resume" that stands out to human recruiters rather than bots. Whether you are looking for a massive corporation or a fast-paced startup, this episode provides the essential tools to define your target and land an opportunity that actually excites you.   Key Takeaways Define your target by narrowing your focus to two or three specific roles to make your search more efficient. Audit your experience by looking at class projects, volunteer work, and high school jobs to identify your "breadcrumb" interests and hard skills. Build a one-page Master Resume using strong action verbs and quantified data to measure your results. Optimize your LinkedIn profile as your "digital storefront" by using a clear headshot and a headline that explicitly states what you are looking for. Leverage the power of networking by connecting with alumni and peers who can help "triangulate" your application within an organization.   Episode Highlights Kevin Cameron discusses why an internship is not a "marriage" to an employer but an opportunity for mutual support and engagement. Advice on why you should never name your resume files after the specific employer you are applying to. The importance of saving job descriptions as PDFs or Word documents in case the posting is taken down before your interview. How to prepare a 60-second elevator pitch that covers who you are, what you've done, and why you want the role. Why the "thank you note" is still a non-negotiable step that must be sent within 24 hours of an interview.   Timestamps 00:24 — Leveraging university career services and hidden job boards  01:08 — Identifying your interests and school "breadcrumbs"  02:28 — Step 1: Defining your target and role specificity  03:10 — Step 2: Auditing your experience and class projects  05:06 — Step 3: Building a one-page Master Resume  07:21 — Step 4: Optimizing your LinkedIn digital storefront  08:36 — Step 5: Returning to the career center for alumni connections  09:14 — Step 6: The "Save and Search" phase using Handshake and LinkedIn  10:40 — Step 7: Customizing applications and using AI guardrails  11:46 — Step 8: The power of networking with alumni and peers  13:04 — Step 9: Preparing your 60-second elevator pitch  13:35 — Step 10: Following up and the Amazon "star" analogy  15:31 — The 24-hour thank you note rule 16:12 — Why cover letters are making a comeback   If you found this advice valuable, please hit subscribe, leave us a review or follow @careeringwithcameron_ so you don't miss our next episode! Share this episode with a friend currently navigating the job market!   Production Credit: Edited and produced by @the32collective_ / https://www.the32collective.co/

    18 min
  2. JAN 21

    Why Your LinkedIn Photo Matters More Than You Think with Rebecca Sanabria

    In this episode of Careering With Cameron, host Kevin Cameron is joined by photography expert Rebecca Sanabria to discuss the vital role of professional headshots in today's job market.  With over 20 years of experience, Rebecca explains why your photo is a key part of your personal brand and an investment similar to your education. "Having a good headshot is vital nowadays," Rebecca notes, emphasizing that it provides a layer of security and professional energy to your profile. Key Takeaways  Your headshot should be refreshed every two years to ensure you look like the person walking into the interview.  When choosing a photographer, look for personal referrals and a portfolio that resonates with your specific industry.  If you are on a budget, an iPhone can capture a great shot using natural light and a clean, professional background.  Avoid over-relying on AI apps, as they often lack authenticity and can damage your credibility with recruiters.   Episode Highlights  Rebecca shares her strategy for selecting the best photo by gathering opinions from five people with varying levels of closeness to you.  The conversation also covers the importance of maintaining separate professional and private social media profiles to protect your brand. Timestamps  00:11 – Rebecca Sanabria's background in photography  02:58 – Why headshots are a career investment  04:58 – Tips for choosing your best photo  06:32 – How to take a professional headshot on an iPhone  09:51 – The risks of using AI-generated headshots  13:38 – Managing social media and email signatures   If you found this advice valuable, please hit subscribe, leave us a review or follow @careeringwithcameron_ so you don't miss our next episode! Share this episode with a friend currently navigating the job market! Production Credit: Edited and produced by @the32collective_ / https://www.the32collective.co/

    19 min
  3. JAN 14

    The Digital First Impression In a Job Search Explained with Kevin Cameron

    In this episode, Kevin Cameron breaks down what the "handshake" really looks like in today's job market and why first impressions are no longer physical, but digital. This conversation explores how AI is reshaping job applications, screening processes, and how candidates can stay competitive without sounding robotic. "The handshake of 2026 is no longer just a polished résumé, it's how your information is discovered, interpreted, and trusted." Kevin Cameron explains how job seekers can use AI as a strategic advantage while still keeping a strong human voice, avoiding common pitfalls, and understanding what employers' systems are actually looking for. Key takeaways This episode explains why specificity matters more than volume in job searching, how to define a clear mission for your AI tools, why human review is non-negotiable, and how interview data can guide smarter career decisions. Episode highlights Kevin Cameron introduces the concept of the modern digital handshake, explains how AI agents match candidates to roles, shares real-world examples of AI misuse, and outlines how to monitor interview success rather than application volume. He also discusses pipeline hiring, personal branding, and the importance of keeping your online presence current. Timestamps 00:00 What the modern "handshake" really means 01:10 AI and the changing application process 03:10 Defining your AI agent's mission 05:30 Building a machine-readable career profile 07:30 Choosing the right AI tools 09:00 Human guardrails and personalization 10:15 Tracking interview success metrics 13:20 Pipeline hiring and online visibility If you found this advice valuable, please hit subscribe, leave us a review or follow @careeringwithcameron_ so you don't miss our next episode! Share this episode with a friend currently navigating the job market! Production Credit: Edited and produced by @the32collective_ / https://www.the32collective.co/

    19 min
  4. JAN 7

    Mastering The New Year Career Transition with Kevin Cameron

    In this episode of Careering With Cameron, Kevin discusses how to successfully transition into the new year by maximizing the unique "downtime" between December and January. He explores why many people fail at their resolutions and provides a blueprint for career search success, emphasizing that "activity almost solves everything" when it comes to finding your next role. Kevin Cameron shares actionable tips on avoiding the "Monday trap," leveraging LinkedIn for networking, and utilizing AI tools like ChatGPT to improve your professional capabilities. Whether you are a student looking for an internship or a professional navigating outplacement, this episode offers the strategy needed to launch into 2026 with confidence. Key Takeaways Consistency is the hardest but most vital part of the process; it is much harder to restart than to stay engaged. Don't wait for a specific Monday or the 1st of the month to begin your goals; start as soon as you have a plan. Prioritize your three hardest tasks at the start of the week to create an "emotional lift" and clear your desk for easier projects. Episode Highlights The importance of self-care and finding exercise or hobbies you actually enjoy to sustain your energy. How to use the holiday season to reconnect with your network via LinkedIn while the "pace is faster" for responses. Improving your skills through webinars and online courses to "identify and brush up" on data or coding. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to the transition between December and January  04:30 – Why you should avoid the "January 1st" goal-setting trap  08:15 – Using LinkedIn and networking during the holiday downtime  12:45 – Managing the "hardest tasks" first to gain momentum  18:20 – Leveraging AI and ChatGPT to boost job search productivity If you found this advice valuable, please hit subscribe, leave us a review or follow @careeringwithcameron_ so you don't miss our next episode! Share this episode with a friend currently navigating the job market! Production Credit: Edited and produced by @the32collective_ / https://www.the32collective.co/

    14 min
  5. 12/31/2025

    Connecting Your Passion to Your Profession with Kevin Cameron

    In this solo episode of Careering With Cameron, host Kevin Cameron dives deep into the essential concept of finding "your why" to unlock true professional fulfillment. Kevin shares expert coaching insights on how to identify your unique "superpower" - that natural ability which often goes unnoticed because it comes so easily to you. This episode is a call to action for anyone feeling stuck, offering a roadmap to transition from merely having a job to building a career that resonates with your core identity. Kevin discusses the 80/20 rule of job satisfaction, suggesting that at least 80% of your work should be engaging and meaningful. He provides practical steps for "connecting the dots" between your childhood interests, your free-time activities, and your professional goals. By the end of this session, you will understand how to pay attention to "glimmers" of passion and use them as a compass for your next career move. Key Takeaways Identifying your "superpower" involves looking for tasks you perform repeatedly and effortlessly, which are often the clearest indicators of your natural talent. Your "why" is the foundation of your career journey; understanding it makes work more engaging and helps you avoid the "Sunday Scaries". Transferable skills are found in every experience, from personal hobbies like carpentry or hiking to the ways you interact in social groups. Episode Highlights The importance of self-reflection and looking back at what you wanted to be as a child to find clues about your current professional needs. How to utilize modern tools, including AI, to harness your strengths and better understand the current job market. A strategy for "nudging" yourself toward new opportunities by paying attention to what naturally lights you up. The value of finding a safe place to ask "dumb questions" and gain the clarity needed to move forward with confidence. Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to the "safe place" for career questions 05:30 - Defining your "superpower" and natural abilities 12:15 - Analyzing your free time to discover your career "why" 18:45 - Overcoming the feeling of being stuck in the wrong role 25:20 - Practical ways to transfer hobby skills to your resume 32:10 - Final thoughts on building a career you love   If you found this advice valuable, please hit subscribe, leave us a review or follow @careeringwithcameron_ so you don't miss our next episode! Share this episode with a friend currently navigating the job market! Production Credit: Edited and produced by @the32collective_ / https://www.the32collective.co/

    9 min
  6. 12/24/2025

    How to Sell Yourself Without the "Ick" with Shannon Johnston

    In this episode of Careering with Cameron, host Kevin Cameron is joined by trusted colleague and career coaching expert Shannon Johnston to demystify the art of professional networking and self-promotion. Shannon shares her "unshakable confidence" framework, explaining how job seekers can overcome the "ick" factor associated with selling themselves by shifting their mindset toward curiosity and service. The discussion explores practical strategies for building an authentic executive presence, whether you are an introvert or a seasoned leader. Shannon highlights why traditional "cookie-cutter" responses fail in interviews and how to leverage your unique story to stand out in a competitive market. Key Takeaways Networking should be viewed as a curiosity-led conversation rather than a transactional sales pitch. Authentic self-promotion is based on your real experiences and results, not "bragging" or exaggerating accomplishments. Executive presence is built on being grounded, prepared, and genuinely interested in the people you are meeting. Episode Highlights Mindset Shift: How to stop "selling" and start connecting by focusing on how you can help others solve their problems. The Power of the Story: Why sharing tangible, real-world examples creates a more lasting impression than a list of responsibilities. Navigating Anxiety: Practical tips for introverts to manage the "nerve-wracking" nature of high-stakes networking events. Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to executive presence and career transitions. 15:30 - Shifting from a "sales" mindset to a "service" mindset. 32:45 - How to build unshakable confidence in interviews. 48:15 - Practical networking tips for introverts. If you found this advice valuable, please hit subscribe, leave us a review or follow @careeringwithcameron_ so you don't miss our next episode! Share this episode with a friend currently navigating the job market! Production Credit: Edited and produced by @the32collective_ / https://www.the32collective.co/

    23 min
  7. 12/17/2025

    The #1 Financial Fear When Quitting Your Job (And How to Fix It)

    This week on Careering with Kevin Cameron, we are joined by Todd Roselle, a good friend and founder of Blue Rock Financial Group. Todd shares incredible insight on the financial psychology and planning for career changes. Many clients approach Todd when they are moving towards being "more in control of their time" or simply face unplanned financial situations.  We dive into the critical importance of creating a personalized financial strategy that prepares you for any pivot. Todd emphasizes that money management is a constant thing, and stresses how a little planning can make a big difference in how soon you can leave an uncomfortable work situation. We talk about the biggest fear people have when considering a career transition, which is usually related to money. Todd gives tangible tips for mitigating the stress of job uncertainty and what to do when contemplating a significant professional change. Key Takeaways Financial Freedom is about building a buffer and designing your life to provide for your family, not just accumulating wealth. The biggest financial fear during a career change is uncertainty, which can be overcome by planning for different "what if" scenarios. Proactively saving into accessible accounts like a brokerage or cash reserve is a great way to be prepared for an unplanned layoff or period of transition. Retirement Planning often involves coordinating tax strategy, investment allocation, and retirement income streams, especially when transitioning careers later in life. Episode Highlights The biggest tip Todd gives people around financial readiness for a job change. The three buckets of money and where to save your accessible cash reserves. Why the Affordable Care Act and COBRA are critical components of a career change plan. The importance of thinking about your money consistently versus constantly. Why people "get stuck" in their jobs and the role planning plays in finding freedom. Timestamps 0:15: Why Todd is the perfect guest for a career conversation 2:40: The financial reality of unplanned career changes 6:35: The mindset shift needed for financial control 11:55: The biggest fear clients have when changing jobs 15:00: Where you should be putting your money now for career pivots 18:40: How to treat your savings like a "next door millionaire" 21:10: Health coverage options like COBRA and ACA 25:25: The psychology behind why people stay in jobs they don't love 30:10: How your network is your net worth in job searching 34:50: The two important timelines to remember for investments If you found this advice valuable, please hit subscribe, leave us a review or follow @careeringwithcameron_ so you don't miss our next episode! Share this episode with a friend currently navigating the job market! Production Credit: Edited and produced by @the32collective_ / https://www.the32collective.co/ Connect with Todd bluerockfg.com Blue Rock Financial Group - Advisor & Planning Service

    32 min
  8. 12/10/2025

    Leveraging the Holiday Season for Career Opportunities with Kevin Cameron

    In this episode, Kevin Cameron tackles the job search journey, particularly focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by the end-of-year holiday season. He emphasizes the need for job seekers to maintain a strong level of engagement and actively continue networking, even when things are slowing down. Kevin Cameron highlights that while the process might be slower in November and December, and pick up again in January, candidates should focus on leveraging this unique period. He states that right now it's an opportunity to reframe the search and focus on refining your approach and skills. Kevin Cameron encourages proactive steps like having your 'elevator pitch' ready and being prepared to talk about your job search strategy, even with friends and family during holiday events. He advises that networking during the holidays can be less pressured, stating, "It seems like a little bit too much, but it's not crazy. And you can notice it in a good time and people that don't want to be that person, okay?". Key Takeaways Negotiation is a professional skill you should always try to use, and many people don't negotiate salary, so asking puts you ahead.  The holiday season slows the hiring process but creates unique networking opportunities and less competition, so stay engaged and keep up the momentum.  Use the slower period to improve your elevator pitch, job search strategy, and overall narrative for better positioning in the new year.  Attend holiday events and strategically reconnect with people , making sure to ask how you can help them first before asking for a referral or opportunity. Be aware that hiring slows down, especially after November , and plan for a strong restart in January. Timestamps 00:00:23 Today we're going to highlight several things that we're going to talk about today.  00:00:46 So, you're considering what to do next with your job search.  00:01:42 Kevin Cameron would encourage you to also share it with somebody else.  00:03:04 So, it's not going to be the fastest thing on earth. 00:03:33 Most people are going through this process when.  00:04:36 I cannot emphasize enough good contacts and good connections.  00:05:32 And that's reconnecting. 00:06:40 That's the one rule that we should emphasize.  00:07:07 Should I take time off for the holidays?  00:07:37 The process will be a little slower.  00:08:08 So, that's what we want to talk about.  00:09:40 So, and this also plays in really well.  00:10:48 Make sure that you understand the terms. 00:11:43 But there's several different things that you can look to.  00:12:47 So, you should always be talking to the next person. 00:13:21 Can you also utilize AI?  00:14:15 So, right now, around the end of November and the end of December.  00:15:08 But that's the next piece. 00:15:37 You need to reconnect to those folks. If you found this advice valuable, please hit subscribe , leave us a review or follow @careeringwithcameron_ so you don't miss our next episode! Share this episode with a friend currently navigating the job market!  Production Credit: Edited and produced by @the32collective_ / https://www.the32collective.co/

    17 min
5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Careering with Cameron podcast, your home for all things career strategy and job search success! Hosted by Kevin Cameron, this is the safe place for you to ask all the "dumb questions" about finding a job. What to Expect: Are you finishing college or graduate school and just starting your career? Are you a bright, data-driven individual in a STEM field (Science, Tech, Engineering, or Math) who may struggle with people skills? If you're wondering "what's next," you are in the right place. Kevin's goal is to give you a clear, step-by-step roadmap for your career journey. We'll walk through the often-confusing process of finding a job so you can feel ready and empowered. The ultimate goal is not just to apply for positions, but to find meaningful work that aligns with your passion. Meet Your Host: Kevin Cameron brings over 20 years of experience as a recruiter and is an ICF-certified professional coach. Having been "on the other side of the desk" for two decades, he's bringing the inside scoop to help you: *Think like a recruiter so you can land the job you want. *Get actionable advice and best practices for resume writing, interview questions, negotiating offers, and more. *You don't have to navigate this career search alone! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Be sure to subscribe and follow us on social media @careeringwithcameron_ on Instagram!