Why Your Resume Isn't Enough (And What to Do Instead)

If you’ve spent any time on the job hunt lately, you know the frustration of the "black hole" application. You find a role that fits your skills perfectly, hit submit, and then... silence.

In a recent episode of the Career & Code Talks podcast, hosted by NSS alum Preston Robbins, our very own Career Development Manager, Ashley Dickson, sat down to discuss why the traditional "apply and pray" method no longer works in today's tech market.

With eight years at NSS and three years as a recruiter prior to that, Ashley has seen the industry shift firsthand. Her biggest takeaway for those looking to break into tech or for their next role? Networking isn't just a "plus"—it’s a requirement.

"If you are not networking in this market, you will not be successful... that application is not getting you the interview."

Beyond the Resume

Ashley explains that with the rise of AI-generated job descriptions and resumes, everyone looks like an "exact match" on paper. To stand out, you have to bypass the clutter and connect with people.

One of her favorite strategies for a cold outreach is remarkably simple: ask for advice.

"It is flattering when somebody asks you for your opinion or advice because it means they value it... Shifting your mindset in a job search to focus on those wins—like getting a response to a LinkedIn message—is what helps you stay connected to your search."

Ready to stop shouting “hire me” into the void?

In this episode of Career & Code Talks, Ashley and Preston dive into:

• The "Three C's" of outreach: Connection, Context, and Call to Action.
• Why your previous career matters: How a barber or a server actually has a "leg up" in tech through soft skills.
• The Dating Analogy: Why desperation is a turn-off to employers and how to build genuine curiosity instead.
• Overcoming the "Annoying" Factor: Why being persistent (in a respectful way) is actually a sign of the communication skills employers want.

Listen to the full episode of Career & Code Talks below.

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