Every week, I speak with corporate professionals navigating job loss, career pivots, or the pressure to stay relevant in industries shaped by digital transformation. This week on The Job Hunting Podcast, my conversation with Stella Voules reaffirmed what I am witnessing on the ground: we are in a watershed moment. The collision of AI, hybrid work, leadership uncertainty, and skills dislocation is not a forecast. It’s our present.
Many of my clients are seasoned professionals facing layoffs or stalled career progression, not because they lack talent, but because the ground rules have changed. Organizations are undergoing structural and technological shifts, and professionals must now take ownership of their employability in a way that was not expected of previous generations.
In this newsletter, we will investigate a few ideas discussed in this week's episode with my guest, Stella Voules. Stella works with executives who face big questions about leadership, technology, and team dynamics.
Understanding the Hidden Job Market
What we need now, in organizations and among professionals, is a dual commitment to staying current with digital advancements and cultivating humane, inclusive workplaces. This combination of digital fluency and compassionate leadership will distinguish the employers of choice from the professionals who thrive. Here is a breakdown:
The digitally competent executive
One key theme Stella brought to the fore is the necessity of developing a "digital muscle." Not every executive needs to become a coder, but every professional must understand how digital transformation impacts their industry. In 2025, this is no longer optional. Ignorance of AI, data literacy, or cybersecurity risks is equivalent to being functionally illiterate in a modern workplace. And yet, I still meet leaders who admit they have not tried tools like ChatGPT or explored how AI could augment their teams.
I understand the hesitation. When your career has been defined by strategic thinking, operational excellence, or people leadership, learning the nuances of generative AI can feel like starting over. But the professionals who lean in, explore, test, and learn (even informally) are better positioned to lead.
The compassionate executive
Another powerful insight Stella offered is that being a great leader today requires compassion, not control. I’ve noticed that some companies mandating full-time office returns are not necessarily doing so because it improves productivity. In many cases, it’s about power. Leaders who came of age in command-and-control environments struggle to relinquish their perceived authority when they can no longer see who’s at their desk. However, trust, flexibility, and emotional intelligence are not soft skills. They are strategic assets.
A new style of leadership
In times of uncertainty, I advise my clients to embrace what Stella and I discussed: self-leadership. This is the ability to guide your own development, take responsibility for your upskilling, and connect strategically with your network. The old model of relying on your employer for career development is outdated. It’s time to be proactive, curious, and visible.
The lifelong learner
I know it's not easy. The emotional toll of job loss, especially in mid to late career, is immense. But I also see it as a moment of power. You get to choose how to shape your next chapter. I encourage job seekers to use this time, especially during seasonal slowdowns like June and July, to invest in learning, reach out and catch up with mentors, friends and colleagues, work with a coach to develop your job search skills and career plans, and build a foundation that signal readiness for the future.
Free resources abound. From newsletters and podcasts like these ones here to Microsoft’s cybersecurity training, Google’s AI fundamentals, and OpenAI’s own learning platform, these are not just resume fillers. They are evidence of a growth mindset.
Actionable Strategies for Job Seekers
1: Build Your Digital Fluency
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Identify key digital trends in your industry
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Enroll in one or two free courses relevant to your current or target role (e.g., AI fundamentals, cybersecurity basics)
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Set aside time weekly for upskilling
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Practice using tools like ChatGPT or other AI platforms securely and ethically
2: Leverage Your Network with Purpose
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Identify 10 LinkedIn contacts who can offer insight or referrals
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Reach out in a tailored way: have a phone chat, a Zoom chat, a message exchange, or invite close ones for a casual coffee near their home or office
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Prepare to share what you're learning and how it relates to their work
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Use these conversations to deepen relationships and stay top-of-mind
3: Explore Low-Cost or Free Learning Platforms
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Platforms mentioned in the episode include Salesforce Trailhead, Microsoft Learn, AWS Skill Builder, and Google Cloud Training
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Focus on programs that offer certifications or digital badges
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Document your learning and reflect on how you can apply it in a future role
4: Understand AI Risks and Data Security
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Avoid using free AI tools for confidential or proprietary information
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Advocate for safe AI environments in your workplace
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Stay informed on corporate AI policies and best practices
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Educate your peers and managers if policies are not yet in place
Listen to this week's episode:
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The convergence of technology and human-centric leadership will define successful careers and organizations. Staying ahead requires a commitment to lifelong learning and the courage to lead with both head and heart.
Listen now:
- Listen to the full episode on the podcast website
- Listen on Apple Podcasts
- Listen on Spotify
- Listen on Audible
Time Out
No TV was watched last week. We were all too busy with work, which is a real shame, as watching movies and series together is a family favourite activity. But here are things I saved for later:
- Who needs Netflix when you have real-life drama on Instagram? I think I have watched every single post from this elderly couple in England. Filmed by their son, who I believe is a real movie and editing professional, I find their content so entertaining. Give it a go here.
- I am rewatching movies, and we are also about to watch a classic tonight. Apparently, my second-born has never watched The Graduate, which I consider a sin. My friend once asked the counter guy at the video store to count how many times I had rented that movie. It was 17! (I considered deleting this, but decided to keep it for your entertainment.) Others on the list include Dirty Dancing, Beaches, Groundhog Day, Risky Business, and Footloose. I am happy to get your recommendations.
- I'm listening to Mozart (part of my music therapy; follow me on LinkedIn for more details), Keith Jarrett, Barbra Streisand, and Lana Del Rey. Basically all my GOATs!
If this newsletter helped you:
- Please help me raise awareness for the newsletter. You can forward it to other professionals who may benefit from it. I will be forever grateful to you. They can click here to subscribe.
- Visit my website for more information about my courses and coaching, which are designed to help you achieve your career goals.
To your career success
RBX
Renata Bernarde | Career Coach | Host, The Job Hunting Podcast
