Welcome to
The Edge
During my 30 years in the recruiting industry, I played a role in hundreds of successful career transitions. The lessons I learned during that time serve as an important building block for career coaching. Blending the two disciplines gives me a unique perspective into what it takes to navigate job and career changes. I hope you find a few “golden nuggets” that give you an edge that leads you down the path to a more meaningful and rewarding career.
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Cover Letter Checklist for Experienced Professionals
Writing a cover letter isn’t just a formality—it’s your chance to show alignment, insight, and strategy. Use this checklist to ensure yours is up to the task.
The Great Cover Letter Debate: Why Smart Professionals Still Write Them (And How to Do It Right in 2025)
Still skipping cover letters? Here's why that might be costing you interviews—and how to write one that positions you strategically, especially if you're as middle-to-late professional.
Jeff Rothman Named One of Cleveland’s Top 15 Coaches in 2025 by Influence Digest
I’m deeply honored to have been named one of the Top 15 coaches in Cleveland by Influence Digest for a second consecutive year.
It’s humbling to be recognized alongside such respected colleagues, and I’m truly grateful for the recognition. Read more about this milestone.
You Won’t Outwork AI—But You Can Out-Human It: Career Advice for Midlife Professionals
AI can optimize tasks—but it can’t replace the human insight, judgment, and empathy that define great leadership and career success. Learn how to lead with what makes you irreplaceable.
How to Keep Your Resume from Getting Buried in the ATS Graveyard
You clicked "submit"—and heard nothing. Here's how to make sure your resume makes it past the ATS and into the hands of a real human.
Got a Job Offer? Here’s How to Decide If It's Truly Right for You
You finally got the offer—congrats! But before you jump in with a resounding “yes,” make sure you’re not overlooking details that could make or break your experience. These 6 questions will help you protect your interests and make the right call for your career and your life.
Job Market Shifts You Don’t Want to Ignore—Are You Ready?
The job market is shifting—and if you're feeling the impact, you’re not alone. In this edition of The Edge, I break down the trends shaping today’s job market, including the impact of federal employees pivoting into the private sector, and share what you can do to stay competitive, adaptable, and ahead of the curve. Be sure to read the item about a surprising mistake that’s slowing down many job searches (plus how to fix it). If you’re feeling stuck or unsure of your next move, this is a must-read.
The Superpower Myth: Why Being Great at One Thing Isn’t the Only Path
This post from Princeton professor Arvind Narayanan is a powerful reminder that you don’t need a “superpower” to be successful. You don’t even need to be the smartest person in the room.
What matters more is how your unique combination of skills work together.
He aptly points out that even if you’re not the best at any single skill, how you use them together—how they complement each other—are what will make you successful and standout in your field. What he says about learning from your wins (not your failures), and finding your niche are also excellent insights for anyone feeling outmatched or unsure of where they fit. Worth a read.
Navigating a Changing Job Market: How Federal and Private-Sector Professionals Can Adapt
Thousands of federal employees are transitioning into the private sector, bringing specialized skills into industries like IT, finance, and defense.
If you’re a federal worker, you may need to rethink how you present your experience, adjust to private-sector hiring practices, and build a new network.
If you’re in the private sector, you might see increased competition and shifting employer preferences.
How might these changes impact the job market? More importantly, what steps can you take to adapt? Don’t wait until you’re caught off guard!
These changes are already underway—don’t wait until they impact your career.
One Big Mistake That’s Slowing Down Your Job Search —And How to Fix It
Most job seekers make this mistake—and it’s costing them time and opportunities.
You’re applying for jobs, tweaking your resume, and maybe even updating your LinkedIn profile… so why aren’t you getting the results you want?
The mistake? Jumping straight into applications before gathering key insights about the job market, employer expectations, and industry trends.
The good news? Fixing this is simple—and it can actually help you land the right job faster.
One Job Offer Now, Waiting on Another? Here’s How to Handle It
Caught between one job offer and the possibility of another? It can feel like a win, but also a tough decision. Learn the risks and strategies for making the right call when juggling multiple job offers.
Navigating Your Career Journey: How a Career Coach Can Help and Tips for Choosing the Right One
Feeling trapped in your current job? Uncertain about your career path or how to navigate a job transition?
You're not alone. Many professionals reach a point where they need a guiding hand to help them achieve their career goals. In this article, we'll explore how tapping the expertise of an experienced career coach can be the game-changer you're seeking.
AI-Powered Job Search: 15 Use Cases and Prompts for Landing Your Next Job
Struggling with your job search? AI can help you craft the perfect resume, ace your interviews, and uncover hidden opportunities. Discover 15 powerful ways to use AI—plus sample prompts you can apply today!
Job Offer? Don’t Say Yes Without Asking These Questions First
Congrats on that job offer! But before you say ‘yes,’ there are crucial questions you need to ask. From salary details to understanding company culture, find out how to make sure the offer aligns with your career goals and personal needs. Your future self will thank you!
Seal the Deal: How a Well-Crafted Follow-Up Email Can Influence Hiring Decisions
Think your job is done after the interview? Think again! Discover how a well-crafted follow-up email can be your secret weapon in clinching the job offer.
AI Won’t Replace You—But Intellectual Workers Might. Here’s How to Keep Up
The rise of AI is transforming the workforce, but the most successful professionals won’t be those who simply use AI—they’ll be the ones who collaborate with it. Intellectual workers don’t just solve problems; they reframe them, bridging the gap between human insight and artificial intelligence. Are you ready to future-proof your career? Here’s how to become an intellectual worker.
Steps for Crafting a LinkedIn Headline That Gets You Noticed
Your LinkedIn headline is a valuable opportunity to showcase your expertise, attract attention, and rank higher in search results. Learn the secrets to crafting an SEO-optimized headline that gets you noticed!
How to Write a LinkedIn "About" Section That Gets You Noticed
Your LinkedIn "About" section can make or break your first impression. Ready to turn it into a story recruiters and connections can’t resist? Discover how to craft a standout narrative that showcases your career journey, values, and future aspirations.
Jeff Rothman Recognized as One of the Top 15 Coaches in Cleveland
Exciting news! I’ve been named one of Cleveland’s Top 15 Coaches by Influence Digest. Honored to stand alongside such talent and grateful for this recognition. Read more about this milestone!
Unlocking Hidden Job Opportunities on Facebook: Your Complete Guide
Think LinkedIn is the only social media platform for job hunting? Think again. Learn how to unlock hidden job opportunities on Facebook and make the most of your network and professional groups. Your next career move could be one post away!