EP44: Job Search 101: Executive Branding with the Briefcase Coach

2025-12-02

Discover how to articulate your professional value with clarity and confidence so your next career move feels intentional and fully aligned with your strengths. Karin Reed and Briefcase Coach founder Sarah Johnston discuss why even the most accomplished professionals struggle to explain what they bring to the table. If you’ve ever stared at your résumé and wondered why it doesn’t feel like “you,” or questioned how to tell your story without sounding inflated or vague, this episode gives you a clearer path forward. Sarah offers a g...

Discover how to articulate your professional value with clarity and confidence so your next career move feels intentional and fully aligned with your strengths.

Karin Reed and Briefcase Coach founder Sarah Johnston discuss why even the most accomplished professionals struggle to explain what they bring to the table. If you’ve ever stared at your résumé and wondered why it doesn’t feel like “you,” or questioned how to tell your story without sounding inflated or vague, this episode gives you a clearer path forward. Sarah offers a grounded look at what hiring teams actually pay attention to, why so many leaders lose sight of their own impact, and how a shift in perspective can change the way you show up on paper and in interviews. What would happen if you paused before updating your résumé and asked who you want to reach and what they need to see? How might your story change if you focused on real outcomes rather than a list of responsibilities?

Karin and Sarah also explore how LinkedIn shapes first impressions and why keywords, updated visuals, and a thoughtful About section matter more than most people realize. They close with a simple but meaningful challenge: set aside quiet time to build a value proposition statement that reflects your strengths and the direction you want to go. If you want a clearer sense of how to communicate your worth and make your next career move with intention, this episode will help you rethink how you present your work, your impact, and your voice.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introducing Sarah Johnston And The Importance Of Articulating Your Value

02:38 Identifying Your Target Role And Understanding What Employers Really Want

06:02 Why It’s Hard To See Your Own Strengths: “Inside The Jar” Insight

09:59 The RAS Formula: How To Lead With Impact On Your Resume

14:01 LinkedIn Strategy: Keywords, Storytelling, And Controlling Your Online Narrative

22:20 Quick LinkedIn Wins: Headline, Headshot, And Strategic Networking

25:56 Owning Your Achievements Without Feeling Like You’re Bragging

28:40 Your One Next Step: Creating A Powerful Value Proposition Statement

Connect with Sarah Johnston:

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Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn