Episode Summary

In this special live episode, Chris Whyte, founder of Kodu and host of Why Design, delivers an energetic and insight-packed session to design students on how to stand out in a competitive job market. Drawing from 12+ years of experience and dozens of podcast conversations with design leaders, Chris shares practical advice on everything from CV writing to LinkedIn networking, preparing for interviews, and unlocking hidden job opportunities.

This is a must-listen for any early-career designer or student ready to land that first big opportunity.

What You’ll LearnCrafting Standout Applications

• Why most CVs fail in the first 7 seconds, and how to beat the odds.
• What hiring managers really want to see in portfolios.
• The power of showing process (not just final outcomes).

Cutting Through the Noise

• How a single phone call or mailed portfolio can beat 700 online applications.
• Pro tips for writing effective, personalized cover letters (with a smart use of AI—but not too much).

Nailing the Interview

• How to use the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to tell compelling stories.
• Why preparation beats talent when it comes to interviews.
• Questions to expect, and questions you should ask.

Job Search Tactics That Work

• The hidden job market: Why 85% of jobs never make it to job boards.
• How to go beyond LinkedIn job ads and reach decision-makers directly.
• The “3X system” to grow your network, post with purpose, and engage effectively.

Building a Better LinkedIn Presence

• What makes a LinkedIn profile “sticky” to recruiters.
• The benefits of journaling your job search publicly.
• Voice notes, featured posts, and other tactics that boost visibility.

Top Takeaways

• Be proactive: Most candidates aren’t doing half of what’s possible to stand out.
• Show your thinking: Employers care more about how you think than what you made.
• Network now: Relationships > resumes. Word of mouth leads to most opportunities.
• Use the tools: Google Jobs, ChatGPT for research, TotalJobs, and custom GPTs to prep.
• Follow up: Don’t be afraid to reach out twice. Or three times.

Connect with Chris Whyte on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte/

Learn more about Kodu Recruitment: https://teamkodu.com/