Landing a job overseas can be tough, but getting sponsored to stay can be even harder.

In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma explain why sponsorship is rarely advertised in job ads, and why temporary roles are often the best starting point.

We share how to research your visa options, build a flexible plan when the future is uncertain and when it's time to move on from an employer who won't commit.

🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Ruth who bought us a coffee!

“Less than 24 hours before my job interview, I found your podcast on a long drive to my friends to get my hair fixed (yes, the day before an interview, last minute!). I immediately found your way of talking easy to listen to and understand (kiwi here), I loved your take on interviews and by the return journey I had listened to the Best Bits episode and the Pre-interview pep talk one too. I spent my evening scoping out 4 of my best bits and all the relevant Q topics they could answer. I had already prepped in my own way, and also prepared a 10-min presentation of a campaign as requested, but the best bits idea just unlocked something for me and I knew I was going to do well. Instead of waiting for them to ask the 'right' questions for me to share what I wanted, I just turned every question into talking about what I wanted to share. Sometimes it was a cheeky pivot, but they didn't seem to care. I had them grinning ear-to-ear, loving my ideas and when I said my ideal salary at the end they were just like, "yes makes sense". Before the day was out they told me I was the preferred candidate, they checked my references and Monday told me I'd gotten it and they gave me the highest available salary for that position. (Only $3k shy of my pie-in-the-sky ideal). There are many things I've done to get to this point to build my confidence after being self-employed for 8 years, but I honestly credit the cherry on top of feeling 100% ready and that I was going to smash it was from you guys. Thank you so much - I finally feel that this mid-career pivot is paying off. Also I'm telling all my friends to listen.”

🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips

🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching

❤️ Follow us on Instagram

📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

www.interviewboss.com.au

You’ve signed the contract for your new job, but that doesn’t mean you have to start the very next day!

In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma explain why there's no need to rush from one job straight to another and how to clearly communicate that you'll be taking a short break before starting.

We share the exact wording you can use, how to avoid falling for pretend pressure, and what to do if flexibility actually isn’t possible.

Whether you want a week off, a few days, or just a weekend to reset, this episode will help you take it, confidently.

🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Nina who bought us 10 coffees!

“Emma and Sarah! I just landed a new role that comes with a 53% pay increase, amazing benefits, and the chance to build a brand new program from scratch, and I have to give a huge ‘thank you’ to Interview Boss for helping me get there. Your Best Bits framework leveled up how I approach interviews. I already had found great success with the S.T.A.R format, but Best Bits gave me even better direction for which examples to pick and made me understand that I should use my examples to share what I want prospective employers to know about me versus what I think they are trying to learn about me. I also used Best Bits in a previous interview cycle. I got through the final-round, but the role was pulled. Still, I’m pretty sure it was mine and credit Interview Boss for the framework but also for boosting my confidence and helping me make more informed decisions about my application and interview strategy. For the role I just landed I had seven interviews, including four back-to-back interviews in one day with six people. The last that day was a presentation, and it concluded with an executive interview the next week. Some questions were ‘tell me about a time’ and others were ‘what would you do if,’ either way, I found ways to weave in my Best Bits and tell my story. I genuinely loved my last job and manager, but with limited room to grow and uncertainty about the company’s future, I decided to not wait and find out what would happen to me, but take command of my future. While this new role doesn’t come with my previous senior title, the compensation and benefits package more than makes up for it— a reminder that titles aren’t the only marker of progress. I was approached for this role by a former colleague, but I still treated every interview with the utmost respect and like I had something to prove—which I think I did despite being invited to apply. So thank you, Emma and Sarah, for giving me the tools to take command of my career and reach a salary amount that will truly change my family and I’s life. Enjoy the coffee! P.S. I would love an episode on how to track and save best bits over time to reduce the work as you prep for interviews. Thinking maybe you could create an AI prompt to give it structure and let AI do some of the heavy lifting?"

🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips

🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching

❤️ Follow us on Instagram

📒

POV: you're kicking yourself for going blank or giving a really waffly answer in an interview, only to have an epiphany about what you should have said, once you've left the building! Sound familiar?

In this week’s episode, we’re answering a listener DM about whether it's worth following up to redeem yourself. Is it helpful? Is it too late? Will it even make a difference?

Emma breaks down what you need to consider before hitting send, while Sarah shares a story about a truck driver who handled this exact conundrum perfectly.

If you’ve ever replayed an interview over and over in your head, this one’s for you. We’re diving into regret, recovery, and the power of perspective when things don’t go to plan.

🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Annelise who bought us 3 coffees!

'Emma and Sarah, I have just received an amazing job offer and one of the first things I thought of was "I need to buy them a coffee and let them know about this!!" I've been listening to your podcast since late last year, when I decided to shoot my shot. I really like working at my current company, but there aren't many career development opportunities for me anymore. And your episode on rage applying for new jobs was the extra push I needed to get into that mindset! Last time I had an interview was seven years ago, when I was trying to get an internship in a very competitive market. I went through multiple online tests, cases, presentations, but getting an offer was really hard and I ended up developing some anxiety around interviews. A month ago, when a recruiter reached out to me on LinkedIn about an amazing opportunity at a tech company, I didn’t think twice and started listening to all your episodes about the interview process. I went through an interview with HR, an interview with the managers, a slide deck presentation and a final interview with the department's director. And you had episodes for every. Single. Step!! The Best Bits episodes was definitely a game-changer for me, as they are for many people. But I also want to highlight the one about bringing notes to the interviews. It made me more confident to learn that I am not getting tested on my memory during an interview. I used to be afraid of forgetting something important, blanking, or not remembering my questions to ask at the end. This time, I felt more in control and calm going into the interviews because I knew I had some notes to refer to if needed. Thank you for your funny and always down to earth advice. Thank you for keeping me sane when I was freaking out right before an interview or when waiting to hear back. Every time I have the chance, I recommend your podcast to friends and family. Much love from Brazil!’

🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips

🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching

❤️ Follow us on Instagram

📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

If you've ever downplayed your role in a successful project because it was a team effort, this episode is a must listen!

Many jobseekers worry about sounding arrogant when discussing a project they were part of in interviews, especially if it led to a big result, like a spike in revenue.

But here's the thing: underselling yourself isn't as humble as you think! Owning your part in a shared success isn't just okay, it's essential!

In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma share practical advice on how to highlight your impact, while striking the perfect balance between honesty, confidence, and collaboration.

🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Matilde who bought us 5 coffees!

“HI GIRLIIIIIES (huge feminine energy coming your way)! Where should I start? It’s going to be a long one. I’ve been in a professional transition for the past 1.5 years. I was fortunate enough to quit my job and then go back for a few months. I was stuck in a weird place where I was too senior for junior roles, and too junior for senior roles. There is THIS job at THIS place that I’ve been talking about for 4 years now. It’s been such a long time that I felt like a stalker sometimes. And guess what, YES, THIS exact opportunity opened on the market at the perfect time. I applied in early December, and I knew the process would only start in January so what did I do? PREPARE. The thing I was most anxious about is that I’m French, and the position needed to be bilingual. While I do speak English, I’ve never interviewed in English. During the Christmas break, I decided to look for a podcast in English, to train myself to listen and talk in English and wtf do I find? YOU. I spent HOURS listening to your podcast (#1 is the tell me about yourself episodes, and #2 the best bits of course) I practiced SO much, and having the best bits ready was a true blessing. They didn’t ask a question about something? NO PROBLEM - I’m going to tell them anyway. Omg it worked WONDERS. I absolutely SMASHED the interviews, especially the one with the senior director and VP. It took 3 months and 2 new friends (aka you) that don’t even know me (I told you… borderline stalker) but I GOT IT OMG!!! I got the offer this week, for a better salary than I asked, with amazing compensation. I’m so happy so I wanted to let you know. Enjoy the coffees, I wouldn’t drink 5 at a time, it’s risky - but who am I to judge??? P.S because I NEED to know, where does the « oh oh oh oh » of the jingle come from? It kinda sounds like ‘No control’ by One Direction - is this it??? Your new stalker sister, Matilde.”

🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips

🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching

❤️ Follow us on Instagram

📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

www.interviewboss.com.au

Got an interview coming up but stuck in a 9-to-5? You’re not alone.

In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma tackle a classic dilemma: how to juggle face-to-face interviews while holding down a full time job.

From negotiating interview scheduling, to making the most of flexible work arrangements, or requesting time off strategically, we share how to make yourself available, without raising eyebrows.

It's a delicate balancing act, but these tips can help you navigate the situation without jeopardising your current job, just in case things don't go to plan.

🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Jorien who bought us 3 coffees!

"“Hi! A few months ago I shared with you how Interview Academy helped me prepare. I ended with how confident I felt about the interview I did, and that even if I didn't get the job, I was still happy with how I did. Well, I didn't get the job. And the next lot of interviews also resulted in me not getting the job. I got better at doing interviews, which was great. I learned a lot. And I kept getting interviews, which was also great but nerve-wracking. The next round of interviews were great and after the second one they called within a few hours to say they chose me. Amazing! Except that I had another interview planned the next day for a job I had been talking about for years. I decided to do that interview and choose afterwards. It seemed like an impossible choice. I couldn't sleep and was so worried. But when I went in for the "dream job" interview, it turned out it wasn't a match at all for me at this moment. So I let them know the same day that I would not proceed and I accepted the job that is a much better match. So what did I learn? First: I'm a bit spoiled as I got so many interviews (in 5 of 9 cases I got an invitation after sending in an application) and I still felt insecure often. It is a hard thing. Second: most interviewers try their best to make you feel comfortable (also in panel interviews). Some don't, and that's really valuable information for you to decide if you want to work there. Third: Prepping really helps, but even with the best prep in the world, you will always get questions you didn't expect. If you are like me and can be too excited: limit your preptime. Thank you so much Sarah and Emma, your podcast and Interview Academy really helped me. Tomorrow is my first day, I am so excited. I also know that in a few years, I might have to do interviews again. Any advice on how to make sure I keep track during my job of best bits and future examples?"

🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips

🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching

❤️ Follow us on Instagram

📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

www.interviewboss.com.au

Mentioned in this episode:

Ever typed “just checking in 😊” or added an extra exclamation point to sound friendly—then worried you sounded unprofessional? You’re not alone. This week’s episode is all about the tricky balance of being warm and respected at work.

Inspired by a listener question, Sarah and Emma unpack the pressure (especially on women) to soften their communication—using emojis, exclamation marks, or phrases like “just” and “I think”—and whether it helps or hurts in a professional setting.

They explore what the research says, when softening language is actually strategic, and how to edit your emails to strike the perfect tone: polite, warm, and confident. Plus, you’ll get real-life examples and swaps to help you communicate clearly without undermining yourself.

If you’ve ever stressed over how your emails come across, this one’s for you.

🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Wendy who bought us FOUR coffees! “Emma and Sarah, Thank you for your amazing podcast and sense of humour. I had a job interview today and I felt I couldn't have been more prepared for it after listening to all your great advice and preparing for close to a week for the interview. I especially liked your advice on "telling them about yourself" even when they haven't asked you "tell me about yourself". Guess what, he didn't ask me that but I gave him nuggets from my response to "tell me about yourself" anyways! Lots of love from Canada!”

🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips

🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching

❤️ Follow us on Instagram

📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

www.interviewboss.com.au

References

https://www.vice.com/en/article/how-to-write-professional-work-email-women/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/gracefoster/2023/09/14/when-to-use-adam-grants-weak-language-and-when-not-to/

https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2015-56707-001

Writing Tools

Just Not Sorry https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/just-not-sorry-the-chrome/fmegmibednnlgojepmidhlhpjbppmlci?pli=1

Grammarly

https://www.grammarly.com/

Language Tool

https://languagetool.org/

You’ve been applying for jobs but getting nothing back. Interview advice is great, but what if you’re not even getting interviews?!

This week, Sarah and Emma respond to a listener's question about what to do when you’re stuck at the application stage. They unpack what “getting seen” really means and explore all the reasons your applications might be falling flat - from the job market and your resume to how you're approaching the process.

They’ll help you figure out if your resume is doing you justice, whether your experience matches the roles you’re going for, and why coffee chats might be the most underrated move in your job search.

Plus, how to tell if you’re applying for too few (or too many) jobs - and whether it might be time to bring in some professional help. If you’re stuck and losing confidence, this episode is the pep talk and game plan you’ve been waiting for.

🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Ari “Emma and Sarah, I listened to a handful of your episodes during a multi-stage interview process that spanned four months. Last week, I received and accepted an offer for my dream job! I am in a niche field in a midsized US city, so roles like this do not pop up often. To provide some context, I withdrew from my masters program in the final semester about four years ago. It was not on a sustainable path for my mental health or overall well being. I worked in a bike shop for a couple of years before landing a role that became a career building step for me. Now, I’m going to start a new job that I would have deemed unattainable even a year ago. I will be going from a coordinator level to a director position as well. Thanks for the advice and the laughs!”

🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips

🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching

❤️ Follow us on Instagram

📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

www.interviewboss.com.au

You’ve applied, you’ve interviewed… and now you’re waiting. But should you be doing more? If you have contacts at the company, is it worth reaching out to move things along - or does that risk coming off as pushy?

This week, Sarah and Emma answer a listener question about using your network after an interview. They discuss when and how to strategically tap into your connections - without making it feel transactional or overly aggressive.

If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate networking in the follow-up stage, this episode will give you some great advice.

🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Sarah “Hi Emma and Sarah. I stumbled across your podcast in the throes of my job-hunting desperation after stuffing up a couple of interviews and convincing myself I was unemployable. I'd listened to a few overwhelmingly intense podcasts on interview techniques (which left me feeling even more hopeless) when you guys popped up in my search like a couple of absolute rays of sunshine. Your practical, cheerful advice was incredibly helpful, and I am so glad I found you (and my dog appreciates all the extra-long walks she got while I finished as many episodes as possible)! I now have an awesome job that I absolutely love and want to thank you so very much for creating Interview Boss and helping me get there. You guys really are the bosses! Cheers, Sarah.”

🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips

🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching

❤️ Follow us on Instagram

📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

www.interviewboss.com.au