Jeff and John dive into a comprehensive discussion on the current state of the job market for channel executives, including challenges, trends, actionable advice, and preparation for a follow-up episode featuring resume and LinkedIn expert Rick Sears.

Key Points Discussed:

* The job market for channel executives is currently difficult, with fewer roles, increased layoffs, and companies hesitant to hire due to economic and geopolitical uncertainty.
* The rise of AI in resume screening and the importance of optimizing resumes and LinkedIn profiles to pass AI filters.
* Increase in interim and fractional roles (25-30% growth in two years) as companies seek flexibility and reduce risk.
* Many executive-level hires are now sourced through referrals or retained search, not public postings.
* The importance of building and maintaining a strong professional network.
* The shift in how companies value and fill channel roles, with many positions left vacant or posted as "Casper" (phantom) roles.
* The need for channel leaders to be multifaceted, understanding direct, indirect, marketplaces, alliances, ISVs, and hyperscalers.
* The importance of documenting measurable performance and maintaining a rolling record of achievements.
* The necessity of digital fluency and adapting to new technologies and market trends.
* Real-life stories of listeners who successfully used advice from previous episodes to secure new roles.

## Important Quotes or Insights:

* “Sometimes the no is just the redirection to something better.”
* “You’ve got to figure a way to stand out. The best way to help you stand out is, even with the referral, is making sure that your resume, all those things are tweaked, not only to meet the expectations of the role, but to get through this AI bullshit.”
* “Knowledge is power. Having data in front of you to just rip off is powerful.”
* “Build your brand, executive technical channel, whatever it is, through speaking content, all that.”
* “Consider the fractional project-based roles if you want to stay in motion. It’s not forever. You try it. You don’t like it. That’s fine. But you know what? You never know.”

Actionable Takeaways or Recommendations:

* Build and maintain a strong professional and executive brand (content, speaking, thought leadership).
* Stay sharp with marketplace knowledge and leverage AI tools.
* Expand your network with meaningful peer relationships, not just connections.
* Consider interim or fractional roles to stay active in the market.
* Keep a detailed record of your achievements and measurable performance.
* Optimize your resume and LinkedIn profile for AI screening and specific job requirements.
* Be proactive in self-promotion and not afraid to advocate for yourself.
* Use a 30, 60, 90-day plan when starting new roles and be prepared to execute on it.
* Stay digitally fluent and adaptable to new technologies and trends.
* Be wary of “Casper” (phantom) job postings; use recruiters and referrals for more reliable opportunities.

## Additional Resources or Links Provided:

* Website: [www.channelsurfers.com](http://www.channelsurfers.com)
* LinkedIn page: Channel Surfers (podcast releases every Tuesday)
* Email contacts: , (for questions or to request the 30, 60, 90-day plan)