About
Ever since college, I knew I wanted to be in the helping sector. As a career coach and…
Services
Articles by Karen
-
10 RED FLAGS TO CONSIDER WHEN OFFERED THE JOB
10 RED FLAGS TO CONSIDER WHEN OFFERED THE JOB
Did you have any trepidation while going through the #interview process? It's great to get the job offer, especially if…
2 Comments -
Ten Questions to Consider as You Begin Your Job Search
Ten Questions to Consider as You Begin Your Job Search
Whether you are an experienced professional, entry-level or senior executive, these questions apply to everyone looking…
10 Comments
Activity
1K followers
-
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW shared thisIS AI SCREENING YOUR JOB APPLICATION? PROBABLY The hiring process has undergone a massive transformation. Before your resume reaches a human recruiter, it is often filtered and scored by artificial intelligence. Most job seekers are unaware of the mechanisms operating behind the scenes. What to Know: • The ATS First Look: Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) analyze your resume. They look for keywords, job titles, and skills matching the job description. If the formatting or language doesn't match the system's criteria, the application may be filtered out automatically. • Active Candidate Matching: Platforms like LinkedIn use machine learning to find candidates before they even apply. These tools analyze behavioral signals, such as profile updates, to predict who might be open to a new role. • Video Interview Analysis: Certain platforms now evaluate video interviews by analyzing word choice, response structure, and vocal patterns to generate a ‘fit’ score. • Digital Footprint Screening: AI tools aggregate public data from LinkedIn, GitHub, and other professional platforms mentions to verify your expertise and build a profile that extends beyond a standard PDF. • Predictive Success Models: Many companies use historical data from previously high-performing employees to identify patterns. Your profile is then scored based on how closely it resembles successful workers. #jobsearching #jobsearch
-
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW shared thisWhy Are You Not Hearing Back? Your Job Search Method Could Be Ruining Your Chances If you are sending hundreds of resumes only to receive radio silence, it's important to understand that the competitive job market has drastically changed the application process. Mass-applying with the same resume is often the quickest way to feel dejected. Employers can easily spot generic applications or templates, especially if AI has been used to write them. ✔️ Avoid ‘Spraying & Praying’ When I read about someone sending out bulk resumes without success, I can often guess why they are not hearing back. ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) are like 'digital filing cabinets' that screen resumes and filter out generic submissions. ✔️ Take a Targeted Approach A successful job search is like a targeted marketing campaign, with you as the product. Be selective and only apply if you meet at least 80-85% of the required skills. Understand the company's culture and the role's needs to make your application more compelling. ✔️ Aligning Your Resume to the Role is Key Recruiters spend mere seconds reviewing your resume, so it must convey, ‘I am the solution to your problem.’ Match the job description's language to navigate through the ATS. Reorder your bullet points to lead with accomplishments that directly address the job requirements. Your executive statement (aka, professional profile) should be tailored to each application to position you as the ideal candidate for the role. ✔️ Network, Network, Network Recognize that the best opportunities often arise from your connections. Reach out to people on LinkedIn for advice on finding a job in your field, rather than asking directly if there are any job openings. And remember that everyone you know could be a connection because you never know who they know. 📌Activity Beats Passivity Every Time #Jobsearching #Resumes #Jobsearch
-
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW shared thisNavigating the Mid-Career Transition: Insights from My Recent Workshop Last month, I had the privilege of leading a workshop for Occidental College alumni who are now mid-career professionals exploring career transitions. Here are a few key takeaways from that session 🔹 Your experience is an asset, not a limitation. We reframed career pivots as evolutions, not departures from the past. Everything you've done has value; it's about repositioning it. 🔹 Clarity comes from action. You don't have to have it all figured out to move forward. Test ideas, conduct informational interviews, and volunteer when possible to plan your next chapter. 🔹 The job market has changed, and so should your strategy. We talked through modern tools for visibility (like LinkedIn branding), relationship-building (networking, not cold-applying), and storytelling (resumes and interviews that connect your past to your future). 🔹 Mindset matters. Transition isn't just tactical, it's emotional. Self-doubt, fear of starting over, being too late to change, and impostor syndrome are real. But so is resilience. I always remind people they aren't just their job titles. #midcareertransitions #jobsearching #careerpivots
-
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW shared thisJob interviews have evolved. Are you ready? Let's face it, few people look forward to these. Whether you're re-entering the job market or aiming for a new role, being prepared for today’s interview formats is crucial. From behavioral and technical interviews to video interviews, each requires a specific strategy. Here’s how to stand out: 🔹Research the company – Know their mission, values, and recent news (seriously, they’ll ask). 🔹Master the S.T.A.R method - Structure your responses to behavioral questions with clear, compelling examples: SITUATION: Provide the setup and context to discuss how you performed a task or faced a challenge. TASK: Explain your responsibilities and the goals you aimed to achieve. ACTION: Discuss the specific actions you took to address the situation. Avoid saying 'we' and the 'team.' This will take some practice. Remember, the interview is all about YOU. RESULT: Highlight the results to show how you make an impact. 🔹Practice telling your stories out loud, not just in your head. 🔹Dress for the role and the culture. Playing it safe is the best thing. You can dress differently when you begin the job. 🔹Test your tech if it’s a video interview. Lighting, sound, and background matter. 🔹Follow up – A thoughtful thank-you message shows genuine interest. 🔹Ask meaningful questions – Not asking is a deal-breaker. Show curiosity about the role and company goals. You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. Preparation isn’t optional—it’s essential. #jobinterviews #jobinterviewing
-
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW shared thisWays To Stand Out In This Competitive Job Market Looking for a job these days is vastly different than in years past. Previously, you could look for jobs that interested you and submit a resume to listings for which you were qualified. These days, there is much more involved. For those who have not had to look for one in a long time for whatever reason, there are several important things you need to know. 🔹Personal Branding: Your online presence matters, even if you're not a fan of social media and a professional LinkedIn profile is a must. Of course, you're reading this on LinkedIn, so make sure you have leveraged your profile 100%. 🔹Social Media Privacy: Employers WILL search for you online. Lock down your accounts and manage your digital footprint. 🔹Keep Learning: Stay sharp by updating your skills, especially tech tools relevant to your industry. 🔹ATS-Ready Resume: Tailor your resume to each job using keywords from the posting. Avoid AI-generated language—software can spot it. 🔹Know the Company: Research the organization's mission and values before applying or interviewing. 🔹Master Soft Skills: Communication, adaptability, and collaboration aren't optional—they’re what often tip the scales. The job market is difficult, but with the right strategy, you can stand out. #jobsearching #jobsearch #jobseeking
-
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW shared thisWe all know looking for a job can be unpleasant and zap your confidence, especially when you are not getting interviews. Here are some tips to remember as you go through the process. 🔸Tailor Your Resume & Cover Letter - Align your resume and cover letter to the job posting. Look at it from the employer’s lens and emphasize what you can do FOR THEM rather than only listing your job description. 🔸 Recognize Your Strengths & Achievements - Keep a ‘brag’ folder. This can include positive performance reviews, emails from colleagues, and anyone who has said something positive about you. 🔸 Practice Your Interview Skills - Rehearse answers to common questions. Record yourself on video, listen to the audio first to hear filler words (um, like, you know) and then watch the video with sound. 🔸Stay Resilient - Rejection isn’t a reflection of your worth. Avoid thinking about the competition and, instead, focus on what you can bring to the job. 🔸Focus on Your Network - Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in you and can offer valuable advice. 🔸Take Care of Yourself - Calendar when to do specific tasks to stay sane. For example, review job postings, work on your resume, update your LinkedIn profile and network so it doesn’t become overwhelming. You don’t need to do this seven days a week. #Jobsearching #JobSearchTips #JobHunt #Jobsearch
-
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW shared thisDidn't get the salary offer you wanted? When a job offer falls short of your expectations, remember that negotiating for a better deal is standard practice. Here are some key strategies to enhance your negotiation skills: ➡️ Start by researching industry standards and salaries for similar roles in your area using platforms like Salary.com. Data-driven expectations are essential. ➡️ Highlight how your skills, experience, and potential can contribute to the company's success. Employers value candidates who can deliver results. ➡️ Boost your confidence by rehearsing your negotiation points before discussions. ➡️ Approach negotiations as constructive dialogues, maintaining a positive and respectful attitude. ➡️ Listen carefully during the discussion to address the employer's concerns and highlight your understanding of their needs. ➡️ Remember to consider the complete compensation package, including benefits and perks, not just the dollar amount. #salarynegotiation #jobsearchSalary.com | Compensation Data, Survey, Software & AnalyticsSalary.com | Compensation Data, Survey, Software & Analytics
-
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW shared thisSearching for a job can be daunting, especially with the abundance of online advice. Not all of them are correct. 🔹 Online Job Boards Are the Best Way to Find Openings - Many jobs are filled through referrals and networking. 🔹 The More Applications, the Better - 'Spraying and praying,' is not effective. 🔹 Meeting Every Qualification is Necessary - Apply if you meet about 80%-85% of the requirements. 🔹 Cover Letter Isn't Necessary - Not mandatory but a compelling cover letter allows you to 'talk' to the employer. 🔹 Changing Careers Is Impossible - Many people make major career changes, moving beyond switching jobs to transitioning into related fields. 🔹 You Can't Get Hired During a Recession - Economic downturns pose challenges, however, companies will still hire. 🔹 Accept the First Offer - While taking the first job offer can be tempting, you would not want to learn that the role is not a good fit after a few months. 🔹 Your Online Presence Doesn't Matter - Employers will research you online before hiring. Keep your social media site settings private. #jobsearch #jobsearching
-
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW posted thisThat 'Open to Work' Green Banner. ❇ Is it a sign of desperation? Not necessarily. In fact, it's a great way to let your network know that you're looking for new opportunities. After all, being laid off or having your company restructure is not your fault. ❇ Remember, LinkedIn is a networking site. That banner could catch the eye of someone you haven't talked to in a while. Who knows what opportunities that could lead to? ❇ Don't let that banner define you as a person. It's simply a way to let others know that you're on the job hunt. As the saying goes, "let everyone know you're looking for a job." #jobsearching #jobsearch
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW commented on a post
2mo
Congratulations, Michael. You deserve this!
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW replied to a comment
4mo
Carl Martellino Yes, that is a great way to put it.
-
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW reacted on thisKaren Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW reacted on thisI keep seeing posts of frustrated job seekers. They're dealing with ghosting, last-minute reschedules, and recruiters reaching out, only to never follow through with an interview. They're getting people's hopes up, having them jump through hoops, and scrambling to customize resumes on Sunday evenings when they should be with their families. People are desperately looking for work. But this isn't an excuse to treat them like crap. If you're lucky enough to actually have a job in recruiting right now... Do better. There are 1000s of out-of-work recruiters that would love your job. And if you are a recruiter who's looking for a job... When you do get back to work, be the change we all need. The bar is incredibly low. It won't take much to raise it a notch or two.
-
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW reacted on thisKaren Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW reacted on thisToday, I made progress. 💪 Not through a big change. But through a tiny step, maybe even too tiny in some people’s eyes to be worth a post. I opened the Instagram account for my coaching business. That’s it. 🙂 No link yet : there’s no content. Zero. Nada. Just a logo… a temporary one. And that’s exactly what I’m proud of. 😇 Because I chose to challenge an automatic reflex I often notice in me (and with many clients also): waiting until it’s “perfect” to really start. But without a deadline, I wasn’t moving enough. 🚶 And honestly: nothing guaranteed I would ever feel “ready.” So I thought of this "cheesy line" that was suddenly right on time: “You don’t need to be ready. You just need to start.” ✨ Coaching has taught me this over and over: self-reflection becomes powerful when it turns into action. Even small or imperfect. The goal isn’t perfection, it's to keep going: one step, then another, at your own pace… but keep going and learning. And you, what’s your small step in life right now? 👏
-
Karen Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW reacted on thisKaren Suarez, MA, CMCS, CPRW reacted on thisBack in January 2025, I would NEVER have imagined what the next 12 months had in store for me. 👀 In a bit of a jumble: ✅ I got married (I mean, just that ... 💍) ✅ I became non-smoker 🚭 (still hard to believe) ✅ I found my “why” through coaching 🤝 ✅ I trained in neuroscience 🧠 ✅ I left Paris (my hometown 🥐 ) ✅ I turned 40 😵 ✅ I left L’Oréal after 14 years #forevergrateful ✅ I moved ✅ I settled in California, in San Francisco 🍩 ✅ And I drank an uncountable number of “goodbye pints” 🍻 Reading this list back, I realize something: each of these, on its own, could easily be “the challenge of a whole year.” I’m not a natural-born adventurer, so if I’m stepping out of my comfort zone, I might as well go all in. 🏊 Because that’s where growth and learning really happen: when you leave, even temporarily, what feels familiar and safe. ☝ What my coaching practice has taught me: • You don’t need all the answers to begin/to move forward • A clear intention + small, consistent actions = you win 🥇 • And sometimes, courage is simply staying the course… one more day Today, more than anything, I feel deeply grateful. For the opportunities. For the people around me. For the steps (even the uncomfortable ones) that helped me grow, and for all the challenges waiting for me in 2026... Thank you, life. ❤️ Let’s go. 🚀
Experience & Education
-
KTS Career Coaching
View Karen’s full experience
See their title, tenure and more.
or
Licenses & Certifications
-
-
Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW)
Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Career Coaches PARW/CC
-
-
Volunteer Experience
-
Volunteer
KCRW Public Radio
- 10 years
-
English Teaching Assistant
Mumbai Mobile Creches, Mumbai, India
- 9 months
Education
I assisted fellow expats from various countries to help teach English to 25-30 migrant children (ages 8-12) who lived with their families on the construction site of a luxury residential building.
-
Editor
Foundation for Mother and Child Health, Mumbai, India
- less than a year
Health
I edited English language training materials used by social workers to teach young mothers living in underprivileged communities about proper nutrition and health for themselves and their children.
Projects
-
Guest Speaker - California Institute for Behavioral Health Solutions
-
I was asked to provide Resume and Interviewing tips to students ranging in age from 18-65+ who were enrolled in a new Substance Use Disorder Certification Program funded by LA County Department of Public Health, Substance Abuse Prevention and Control.
Languages
-
French
Limited working proficiency
Organizations
-
National Association of Colleges and Employers
-
-
National Career Development Association
-
-
Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Career Coaches
-
Recommendations received
53 people have recommended Karen
Join now to viewOther similar profiles
Explore more posts
Explore top content on LinkedIn
Find curated posts and insights for relevant topics all in one place.
View top content