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Five Must-Know Job Search Tips from SilverEdge’s Kirsten Renner

Are you ready to take your cleared job search to the next level? In a recent Security Cleared Jobs: Who’s Hiring & How podcast, SilverEdge Government Solutions’ VP of Talent, Kirsten Renner, shared five critical job search tips that could be your ticket to landing your next dream role.

From dodging sneaky LinkedIn scams to standing out in a crowded applicant pool, these practical takeaways are packed with insider wisdom for navigating the cleared job market. Read on to discover how SilverEdge’s advice can help you stand out, connect smarter, and secure your next opportunity!

You can also listen to the full episode here to learn what SilverEdge has in store for cleared professionals like you!

1. Customize Applications for Better Results

One of Kirsten’s strongest points is the importance of tailoring your job applications. She compares it to earning extra credit in school—effort gets noticed. Instead of sending the same resume to every posting, adjust it to fit the specific role. Kirsten suggests summarizing who you are and what you want in one or two sentences at the top of your resume. For example: “Experienced systems engineer seeking to leverage expertise in network security to transition into a solutions architect role.” You want a quick, clear statement to grab their attention in 3-5 seconds.

Customizing shows you’ve studied the job description and considered how your skills align. It’s not about rewriting everything—just highlighting relevant experience and goals. This approach sets you apart from the crowd and signals genuine interest. When preparing your next application, take a few minutes to tweak it for the role—it’s a small step that can yield big results.

2. Follow Up After Applying to Stay Visible

Kirsten emphasizes that simply applying isn’t enough—you need to follow up. Following up keeps your application from getting lost in the shuffle. After submitting, reach out to the recruiter or hiring manager with a brief message like, “Just applied for the intelligence analyst position this morning—happy to discuss how my background fits.”

This step demonstrates initiative. Recruiters handle high volumes, so a polite nudge can bring your name back to the forefront. Use LinkedIn, email, or whatever contact method the posting provides—just keep it concise and professional. Following up reinforces your commitment and increases your chances of moving forward.

3. Engage with Recruiters Beyond a Simple Click

When recruiters post job opportunities on LinkedIn, Kirsten Renner strongly advises against just hitting the “I’m interested” button. It’s a lazy shortcut that leaves recruiters guessing about your fit, expecting them to dig through your profile to figure it out. “You can’t assume anyone on either side has time to stop and look at your whole profile,” she says. Instead, close that gap by meeting them halfway. Take a few minutes to research the role and company, then craft a personalized message that shows you’ve done your homework and kicks off a real conversation.

Kirsten emphasizes that it’s about more than just saying you’re interested—interested in what, exactly? She suggests starting with a clear goal, drawing from her “CLIMB” framework (from a ShmooCon talk), where the first step is choosing your finish line—what you want this job to lead to. That means understanding the position and company, and then spelling out how you fit. Show that you understand their needs and offer a glimpse of your value. This turns a one-sided click into a two-way dialogue, where real opportunities take root.

4. Beware of Employment Scams—Trust but Verify

Kirsten also warns about the growing presence of fake profiles, especially on platforms like LinkedIn. These scammers are getting craftier, often messaging you immediately after you signal that you’re open to work. To spot them, she recommends asking a question that requires a thoughtful answer, such as, “I see you’re with ABC company—what’s the culture like there?” Asking something that requires more than a yes-or-no answer will help you weed out the scammers.

Other employment scam red flags include if they ask for a connection request instead of messaging you, or insisting you send a resume, regardless of whether or not you point them back to your profile. Kirsten’s advice echoes a cleared community mantra: Trust but verify. Check profiles, confirm company affiliations, and prioritize relationships with recruiters you can validate.

5. Clearly Communicate Your Career Goals

Finally, Kirsten stresses the value of knowing and stating what you want. In your resume and conversations, make it obvious where you’re headed. She suggests framing it as, “I’m a this, and I want to be a that.” This clarity helps recruiters match you to roles and shows you have direction.

Interestingly, she also applies this advice to those already in jobs. If you’re unsatisfied with where you are, tell your employer what could change that—maybe a new responsibility or a shift in focus. Your next step might not require leaving for a new job if you speak up. Whether job hunting or staying put, articulating your goals ensures you’re steering toward something fulfilling. It’s about taking charge of your path, not just waiting for it to unfold.

Listen to the Full Episode

These five takeaways from Kirsten Renner offer a roadmap for cleared job seekers: Customize your applications, follow up diligently, engage recruiters meaningfully, stay wary of scams, and communicate your goals whether actively in a job search or already employed. We hope these strategies help you navigate your cleared job search with confidence. For more, the full podcast episode is a great listen. Best of luck in finding your next role!