Be Found. Be Remembered – LinkedIn Profile Guide

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Know the Pro : Michelle Schafer

Cultivating Career Growth with Intention in 2026

As professionals look ahead to 2026, many are asking a familiar question: What’s next for my career? Michelle Schafer, Founder and Career Coach at Michelle Schafer Coaching, has spent the past decade helping people navigate career transitions with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

An ICF-certified career and leadership coach, author, and facilitator, Michelle specializes in supporting professionals through moments of change. She often jokes that at 46, she finally knew what she wanted to be “when she grew up.” After experiencing job elimination for the second time, a long-planted idea took shape. She explored the coaching profession, pursued formal training, and quickly realized this work was more than a side project — it was her calling.

Since then, Michelle has found deep fulfillment in helping clients clarify what matters most and take intentional steps toward meaningful careers. Not only is she an industry expert providing actionable, practical advice, but she does so in a kind, personable, and deeply respectful way.

“Career transitions can be intentional, values-driven, and deeply energizing.”

Through Michelle Schafer Coaching, she works with clients across government, high tech, financial services, and the not-for-profit sector. She is particularly known for supporting mid-career professionals who feel stuck and ready for change. Her impact has been widely recognized — she was named one of Ottawa’s Top Coaches in 2024 and is also an award-winning, number-one bestselling author.

Built from Practice, Written with Purpose

Cultivating Career Growth: Navigating Transitions with Purpose is a practical, step-by-step guide for professionals seeking clarity, fulfillment, and renewed energy in their work. Drawing on real client success stories — along with her own experience navigating corporate restructuring — Michelle shares a proven framework for exploring new opportunities and approaching career change with confidence.

Her message is simple but powerful: you don’t have to stay stuck. With the right tools and perspective, transitions can become opportunities to thrive. Michelle invites readers to take the driver’s seat and turn their career change into an inspiring next chapter.

Access a free chapter from the book

“Intentional career growth starts with reflection, not reaction.”

Navigating Today’s Job Market: What to Watch For

Michelle sees two key trends shaping today’s job market.

First, AI is playing a growing role in candidate screening, making it essential for resumes and cover letters to be tailored for each role. She encourages candidates to use AI as a supportive tool — not a replacement — to strengthen their messaging while keeping it authentic and human.

Second, networking has never been more important. With some roles attracting more than 1,000 applicants, meaningful connections can be the differentiator that opens doors to opportunities not found through applications alone.

From Uncertainty to Action: Client Success Story

Michelle is especially energized by clients who know they want change, even if the destination isn’t yet clear.

One recent client, after selling his restaurant following a long career in hospitality, wanted to explore new possibilities outside the industry. Michelle guided him through clarifying his non-negotiables, identifying transferable skills, and crafting a compelling new career story.

The result? A successful transition into construction project management — an entirely new field that aligned with his strengths and goals. For Michelle, witnessing clients step into roles that energize them and expand what’s possible is the most rewarding part of her work.

Free resource: Gain clarity and confidence in your job search
Book a complimentary 30-minute discovery call

“Giving yourself permission to reimagine what is possible can change everything.”

Looking Ahead to 2026

Michelle’s journey is a powerful reminder that meaningful career growth comes from reflection, intention, and thoughtful action. If you’re entering 2026 with a desire for greater purpose in your career, connecting with Michelle Schafer is a great place to start.

A quick online search will also turn up a strong collection of podcast appearances and social media content where Michelle shares practical, immediately usable insights to help you move closer to your next ideal opportunity.

Connect with Michelle:

LinkedIn

Website

You can also reach out to the Hamilton Recruiting team — we would be delighted to introduce you to Michelle and support you on your journey toward a meaningful career change in the year ahead.

Big Changes Coming to Job Postings and Hiring in Ontario 2026

If you’re an employer or a job seeker in Ontario, hiring is about to look a lot different. Starting January 1st 2026 Ontario is rolling out new rules for job postings and hiring practices.

The goal? More transparency, fairness, and a better experience for candidates.

What’s Changing in Job Postings

From 2026, any employer in Ontario with 25 or more employees will need to follow these new rules when posting jobs publicly:

• Salary or pay range required
  Job ads must include either the pay rate or a salary range (within a $50,000 spread). Jobs over $200,000 per year don’t have to list pay.

• No more “Canadian experience” requirements
  Employers can’t ask for Canadian work experience in postings or applications. This makes it easier for newcomers to apply.

• AI use must be disclosed
  If artificial intelligence is being used to screen or assess applicants, the posting has to say so.

• Postings must be real vacancies
  Employers have to state whether the job is actually open, cutting down on “fake” or evergreen listings.

What Happens After Interviews

If a candidate has been interviewed, the employer must let said candidate know within 45 days if they’ve made a decision. That communication can be by email, letter, or even in person—but it has to happen.

Record Keeping for Employers 

Employers must keep copies of job postings, applications, and candidate communications for 3 years. This ensures there’s a clear record in case of audits, disputes, or compliance checks, and helps maintain consistency and accountability in the hiring process.

Changes Already Implemented in 2025

Even before these posting rules start, there have been new requirements as of 2025:

From July 1, 2025, employers with 25+ staff must give all new hires a written document that includes:

• Employer name and contact person

• Work location

• Starting wage or commission details

• Payday schedule

• Expected hours of work

Why This Matters

For job seekers:

• You’ll see clear salary ranges upfront.

• Newcomers won’t be blocked by “Canadian experience” barriers.

• No more endless waiting after interviews.

For employers:

• These rules mean updating job posting templates and HR practices.

• Being transparent can help attract stronger candidates.

• Compliance avoids legal headaches.

At Hamilton Recruiting we have always strived to be as transparent as possible and to follow these guidelines to the best of our abilities. These changes align closely with our values, and we are looking forward to continue supporting both employers and candidates with clarity and fairness in the hiring process.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Please do your own research and consult a qualified professional before making any decisions about hiring or employment practices.

6 Effective Networking Strategies for Advancing Your Career

In today’s competitive job market, building a strong network is one of the most powerful tools you can have in your career arsenal. Whether you are transitioning to a new role or just starting your professional journey, networking is not just about collecting business cards—it is about building authentic relationships that can support your growth and open doors to new opportunities. The right connections can make all the difference. Here are six effective networking strategies that can help you unlock your career potential.

1. Leverage LinkedIn

LinkedIn is one of the most effective platforms for professional networking. Make sure your profile is polished and up-to-date, reflecting your skills, experiences, and aspirations. Highlight accomplishments and strengths that set you apart from other candidates. Once your profile is in good shape, connect with industry professionals, colleagues, and potential mentors. Do not be afraid to engage with posts or share insightful content to showcase your expertise and thought leadership. LinkedIn is also a great tool for reaching out to people for informational interviews, which can provide valuable insights into different roles or companies you might be interested in.

Tip: Personalize your connection requests by mentioning why you admire the person’s work or how you would love to learn from their experience. A thoughtful approach can go a long way in establishing a connection.

2. Attend Industry Events & Conferences

While digital networking is essential, there is no substitute for face-to-face interactions. Industry events, conferences, and meetups offer an opportunity to meet professionals who are actively involved in the field. These events provide a chance to engage in meaningful conversations, ask thoughtful questions, and build relationships with potential mentors, employers, or colleagues. Even if the event is virtual, make sure to take part in the discussions and connect with speakers or other attendees.

Tip: Prepare ahead of time by researching the speakers and topics. Asking informed questions shows that you are genuinely interested in the subject and makes you stand out in a crowd.

3. Join Professional Associations & Groups

Professional associations and industry-specific groups can offer invaluable resources for networking. These organizations often host events, offer mentorship programs, and have job boards filled with opportunities. Joining these groups shows that you are committed to your field and are actively seeking ways to engage with others who share similar professional goals. Additionally, these groups can connect you with mentors who can provide guidance as you grow in your career.

Tip: Look for organizations that align with your career interests and actively participate in their events and discussions. Engaging with a community of professionals will help you stay informed about industry trends and opportunities.

4. Tap into Your Existing Network

Sometimes the best connections are already within your reach. Your network does not just consist of professionals you meet online or at events—it also includes former colleagues, professors, classmates, friends, and even family. Do not hesitate to reach out to these individuals for advice or introductions to others in the industry. Let people know about your career goals and aspirations, and they may be able to connect you with valuable opportunities or offer helpful insights into your job search.

Tip: Be clear about the type of connections you are looking for so your network can better assist you. Whether you need advice, job leads, or introductions to specific people, providing context will help others help you.

5. Engage on Social Media & Online Forums

Networking does not have to be limited to LinkedIn. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook groups, and Reddit forums offer communities focused on specific industries or interests. By actively participating in discussions, sharing relevant content, and offering your perspective, you can build connections with professionals who share your interests. These platforms also provide a more casual, yet still professional, space to engage with others in your field.

Tip: Follow industry leaders, join relevant groups, and contribute to discussions. Do not just lurk—be an active participant. This positions you as someone who is engaged and knowledgeable in your field.

6. Offer Value to Others

Networking is a two-way street. While it is important to reach out for opportunities, it is equally important to offer value to others. Whether it is sharing helpful resources, offering advice, or making introductions between people in your network, your willingness to help others strengthens relationships. The more you invest in others’ success, the more likely they are to support you when you need it.

Tip: Focus on building genuine relationships rather than transactional connections. Networking is most effective when it is based on mutual support, respect, and collaboration.

Building a strong, authentic network is crucial for career success, but it takes time, effort, and a willingness to invest in relationships. By leveraging LinkedIn, attending industry events, joining professional groups, and tapping into your existing network, you can create opportunities that will help you grow professionally. Remember, networking is about creating meaningful connections, not just collecting business cards or sending LinkedIn invites. Offer value, stay engaged, and be authentic in your approach, and you will increase your chances of finding the right opportunities to further your career.

Start applying these strategies today, and watch how your network—and career—begins to expand.

12 Essential Tips for a Successful Job Interview Preparation

12 Essential Tips You Need to Know for a Successful and Stress-Free Job Interview

1. Research the Company

2. Study the Job Description

3. Use the Company’s Products/Services

4. Learn about the Interviewers

5. Understand the Interview Format

6. Highlight Your Strengths

7. Prepare for Common Questions

8. Dress Appropriately

9. Be Ready to Ask Questions

10. Practice your Responses

11. Follow Up

12. Stay Positive and Confident

Stand Out on LinkedIn: 5 Tips to Refresh Your Profile

Your LinkedIn profile is a powerful networking tool and a fresh, updated profile can make all the difference to help land your next ideal role. Hiring managers and recruiters are regularly proactively searching for candidates on this platform or using it as a research tool when you have applied to their opportunities. It is not enough to simply have a profile, it is imperative that you use this page as way to communicate who you are and how you can solve their work problems.   

Unsure about how to improve your profile? Here are five simple ways to refresh your LinkedIn page and make it job-ready:

1. Revamp Your Graphics

Update your profile picture with a current polished, professional headshot. It does not have to be taken by a professional, but wear appropriate attire that you would actually wear to work and a confident smile. Make sure that your head fills majority of the frame and ensure that there is good lighting. Choose a new background banner that aligns with your personal brand or industry. These visuals set the tone for your profile and make a strong first impression.

2. Optimize Your Headline

Go beyond your job title – include key skills, qualities, or  career goals that set you apart and even some of your personality to demonstrate that you have what it takes to do their job and do it well. This approach makes your profile more engaging and helps recruiters quickly understand your unique value.

3. Revise and Refocus Your “About” Section

Creating a unique and eye-catching ‘About Me’ section can set you apart from other candidates and make a lasting impressions. Start by highlighting your latest career achievements and future goals in a way that tells a story about your professional journey.

Showcase what makes you unique by emphasizing your passions, values, or a standout accomplishment. For instance:

“I’m passionate about creating inclusive customer experiences and was proud to launch an initiative that increased client satisfaction by 25%.”

Include a clear call-to-action to invite engagement. For example:

“Let’s connect to discuss innovative strategies to drive success and how I can contribute to your team’s growth.”

Take inspiration by studying profiles of industry leaders or peers you admire who align with your professional goals and remember, your ‘About’ section is your personal brand statement, so make it memorable. 

Pro Tip: Writer’s block? Tools like ChatGPT can help you refresh your About section, streamline your profile, and help you save time while maintaining a professional tone.

4. Add Job-Relevant Skills

Highlight trending skills in your industry and keep your skills section up to date. Request endorsements, referrals, and testimonials from colleagues or clients to add credibility and showcase your achievements.

Don’t forget to include volunteer work or memberships in industry associations to show your commitment and involvement. Regularly update this section to reflect your growth and ensure your profile stays relevant to the roles you are seeking. A strong, well-rounded profile sets you apart and aligns with the roles you are targeting.

5. Connect & Re-engage

Reach out to old connections and make new ones. Post thoughtful content, comment on industry trends, and join relevant LinkedIn groups to stay active and visible. Regular engagement demonstrates your knowledge and keeps you on the radar of potential employers.

Refreshing your LinkedIn profile doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these five steps, you can position yourself as a strong candidate and make it easier for recruiters or future employers to find and connect with you.

Don’t wait—start making these updates now and step confidently into your next career opportunity!

Avoiding HR Scams and Ensuring Opportunities Are Legitimate: A Basic Guide

It has recently come to my attention that there are individuals attempting to scam unsuspecting job seekers acting as Hamilton Recruiting, or more often “Hamilton Recruitment” recruiters on Facebook and Instagram, and possibly texts. THESE ARE NOT REAL OPPORTUNITIES. Please do not engage with these individuals. In today’s increasingly competitive job market, scammers take advantage of vulnerable job seekers, creating fake job postings and preying on unsuspecting candidates. To help you navigate through potential pitfalls, we’ve put together a guide on how to avoid HR scams and ensure that the job opportunities you’re pursuing are legitimate.

1. Thoroughly Research the Company

Before applying for any job, take the time to research the company. Legitimate companies will have a professional online presence, including a well-maintained website, active social media profiles, and positive reviews. Be wary of companies with no online presence or those with inconsistent information across platforms.

2. Validate Contact Information

Legitimate job opportunities will provide clear and valid contact information. Verify the email address, phone number, and physical address provided in the job posting. Use official company websites or directories to cross-check this information. Scammers often use generic email addresses and phone numbers, so pay attention to these details.

3. Look for Warning Signs in the Job Posting

Scam job postings often have red flags. Watch out for excessive use of buzzwords, promises of high salaries for minimal work, and vague job descriptions. Legitimate job postings are specific about the responsibilities and requirements for the position.

4. Be Skeptical of Immediate Job Offers

Scammers often rush the hiring process to trap unsuspecting candidates. If you receive an immediate job offer without a formal interview or detailed discussion about your qualifications, it is likely a scam. Legitimate employers take the time to assess candidates’ skills and experience.

5. Never Pay for a Job Opportunity

A genuine employer will never ask you to pay upfront for a job opportunity. Be cautious if the employer requests payment for training materials, background checks, or any other reason. Legitimate employers cover the costs associated with the hiring process. Do not provide personal information until the proposed company and job opportunity are clearly defined.

6. Conduct a Reverse Image Search

Scammers often use stock photos or steal images from other websites to create fake profiles and job postings. Use a reverse image search tool to verify the authenticity of the photos associated with the job posting or the recruiter’s profile.

7. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off during the application process or communication with the employer, trust your instincts. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to make you act quickly. Take the time you need to verify the legitimacy of the opportunity. Several individuals reached out to us directly to confirm the veracity of these jobs before proceeding.

8. Reach out

If you are ever unsure about a job posting or someone who has reached out to you, feel free to contact us directly at in**@****************ng.com. This will ensure that you are talking to the right people and set you up for real opportunities.

In the ever-evolving job market, being vigilant and informed is crucial to avoid falling victim to HR scams. By researching companies, validating contact information, paying attention to warning signs, and trusting your instincts, you can safeguard yourself against potential scams and focus on pursuing genuine and rewarding career opportunities. Remember, a little caution goes a long way in ensuring a secure and successful job search.

Kristina

Resume Basics – Punctuation

Crafting a well-organized and professional resume is essential to make a strong first impression on potential employers or the human resources department. Ensuring that you are following local English language grammar conventions in your written communication is key in any job search.

Here is a list of basic punctuation tips to ensure your resume is clear, polished, and error-free:

1. Consistency:

The most important advice regarding punctuation in a resume is to maintain a consistent punctuation style throughout your resume. If you use a certain punctuation mark (such as a period or comma) in a specific way, keep that style uniform across the document.

2. Periods (Full Stops): 

Use periods at the end of each sentence or bullet point that presents a complete thought.  Avoid using periods in header sections like your name or contact information.

3. Commas:

Use commas to separate items in a list, to set off introductory phrases, and to separate clauses in a sentence. Be careful not to overuse commas, as this can make your sentences feel cluttered.

4. Colons:

Use colons to introduce lists or explanations. For instance, you can use a colon before a bullet-point list of skills or achievements.

5. Semicolons:

Use semicolons to connect two related but independent clauses within the same sentence. This can help to show a stronger relationship between the ideas than a period would.

6. Apostrophes:

Feel free to use apostrophes to indicate possession (e.g., “John’s achievements”) however we would suggest not using them for contract words (e.g., “it’s” for “it is” or “they’re” for “they are”), as this appears a little less polished. Avoid using apostrophes for plurals.

7. Quotation Marks:

Use quotation marks to enclose direct quotes, titles of short works (like articles or short stories), and to indicate a term used in a special way. Keep in mind that different style guides have specific rules for when to use single vs. double quotation marks.

8. Dashes:

Use dashes (–) to indicate ranges (e.g., “2019–2021”) and ensure that the spacing around the dashes is consistent throughout your entire resume.

9. Hyphens:

Use hyphens to link compound words (e.g., “well-known,” “user-friendly”) and to clarify word combinations. They prevent confusion and help the reader understand the intended meaning.

10. Ellipses:

Use ellipses (…) to indicate omitted words or pauses in quotes or text. Be cautious not to overuse ellipses, as they can sometimes create confusion or ambiguity.

11. Bullet Points:

Begin each bullet point with a capital letter and end with a period only if the point is a complete sentence. If the bullet point is a fragment, use no ending punctuation.

12. Capitalization:

Begin sentences and proper nouns (names, places, companies) with capital letters. Keep consistent capitalization in headings and subheadings. See our Resume Basics blog on Capitalization for more detailed information on this topic.

13. Exclamation Marks:

Use exclamation marks very sparingly and primarily in instances where excitement or strong emphasis is appropriate. Overusing them can make your content seem less professional.

14. Parentheses:

Use parentheses to enclose supplementary or explanatory information within a sentence. Keep in mind that the main sentence should still make sense without the content within the parentheses.

15. Avoid Over-Punctuation:

Don’t clutter your resume with excessive punctuation. Keep your writing clear, concise, and easy to read.

16. Proofreading:

Before submitting your resume, carefully proofread for punctuation errors, consistency and typos. It is a good idea to read your resume out loud to catch any awkward phrasing or punctuation mistakes.

Remember, a well-punctuated resume reflects your attention to detail and professionalism and this can make the difference between your resume getting a thorough look or not. Following these basic punctuation tips will help ensure your resume appears polished and communicates your qualifications effectively to help you secure an interview.

Resume Basics – English Capitalization

Consistency throughout a resume and cover letter is crucial as it demonstrates one’s grasp of language as well as attention to detail, factors which are typically highly sought after in any position. Capitalization consistency is particularly important when it comes to writing these documents, or any other professional correspondence or documents. Remaining consistent throughout your resume and cover letter, while also following locally-accepted grammar conventions, is key. Though you may be thinking to yourself that capitalization is something simple that need not be reviewed, it is one of the most common mistakes seen on resumes and cover letters and these simple mistakes can result in your applications being rejected time and time again. 

When used correctly, capitalization helps convey importance by emphasizing titles and headers within a sentence. Pay special attention to titles and dates as these are typically where we see the most errors. Here are some examples of how capitalization should be used for dates and titles:

Dates:

Always capitalize the first letter of days and months. As an added note, ensure that the format of all dates is precisely consistent throughout each document (ie. the number form may include short forms such as 16th, but then each date throughout must be formatted the same).

Example – Wednesday, August 16, 2023 or Wednesday, August 16th, 2023

Titles:

Always capitalize the first letter of any job title or company name.

Example – Project Manager, Hamilton Recruiting NOT Project manager, Hamilton recruiting

If appropriately used, capitalization conveys attention to detail, instills confidence in your abilities and comprehension of the English language, as well as portrays professionalism. Conversely, if used improperly, it can cast doubt on your competence and tarnish your credibility. 

Here are a few more tips for when to capitalize when writing a resume or cover letter:

1. Start every sentence with a capital letter: This ensures clear sentence structure and readability.

2. Capitalize proper nouns: Proper nouns (names, places, organizations, and titles) should always be capitalized.

3. Use capital letters for days, months, and holidays: As previously mentioned, dates are important when thinking about capitalization and are among the most common mistakes that we see when looking at resumes and cover letters.

4. Capitalize titles and headings: The main words in titles on your resume, such as “Work Experience” should always be capitalized. Minor words are not capitalized unless they are the first or last word in the title. (Examples of minor words are; a, the, and, or, in, on, at, etc.)

5. Capitalize acronyms and initials: Shortened versions of phrases or titles, and the initials representing a name should always be capitalized. For example, “HR” (Hamilton Recruiting) and “K. Hamilton”.

When you are finished writing your resume and cover letter, always proofread and edit them carefully, at least one time. It is also wise to have a few family members or friends, who are strong written communicators, take a good look at through as well.  This will ensure hiring managers and human resource departments can focus on your skills and experience when they are considering your application.

For more resume formatting information please see our next blog on Punctuation.

Using ChatGPT to Automate and Improve Job Application

You have undoubtedly heard much about the implications of ChatGPT in society. On the off chance that you have not, it is an Artificial Intelligence (AI) online chatbot that you can use to help you with a wide variety of writing and research. It is a free tool in which you can input basic information and receive text output. What you may not have considered is how it can help you when it comes time to write a tailored cover letter and resume. In addition, it is a tool that can level the playing field for individuals who may not be writing in their first language.

ChatGPT was unveiled in the fall of 2022 and is changing the business world. AI programs like ChatGPT are constantly adapting and providing new tools to help us in our personal and professional lives. If you are comfortable exploring this new realm, we strongly encourage you to take advantage of this highly efficient tool to produce customized applications that will increase your chances of landing an interview.

You can quickly and simply take advantage of ChatGPT to help write your cover letter and resume, tasks that had previously proven to be quite time-consuming. Simply enter the job description and all the relevant information about your work experience and any other relevant background information. Next, tell ChatGPT what you would like it to create, whether that be a cover letter, a resume, or both. ChatGPT will use the information you provide to create the document you need for your application. It is that easy…almost.

Here are some important tips to keep in mind throughout this process:

1. Always carefully read through what ChatGPT drafts. It is not perfect software: it can be drawing on outdated information and it does not know who you are (or what your specific career aspirations are). It may get creative with the information it is given to fill in gaps and this can produce false statements. It also might leave out key information that might be of critical importance to the role. Consider its output your first draft, which you will still need to edit and continue to revise until it is perfected.
2. Reading through it, and adding personal details where relevant, can also help you to make sure your cover letter and resume sound professional and still represent your style and tone, as well as being appropriate for the actual organisation you are applying to. 
3. Use this tool for each individual application. Not only does it save time but it also focuses on verbiage from the job posting that will help you pass the applicant tracking software that companies use to select resumes. Pay careful attention to each word of your final draft, ensuring that only information applicable to the current opportunity is included.
4. Play around with it. If you aren’t getting the responses you want, you may not be asking the right questions. You can treat ChatGPT like a conversation. Build off of its responses and ask it to make  edits if it misses anything that you think would be important. 
5. Be creative. Challenge yourself to think of new ways to spruce up your resume and then ask ChatGPT to try each new approach. I gave Chat GPT my resume and asked the AI tool to rewrite it to make it more concise. It reduced it from 883 words down to 436 words within seconds, while keeping all the important points I wanted to touch on.
6. When you think you are done, for some extra assistance, we highly recommend that you run the finished resume and cover letter through Grammarly (https://www.grammarly.com/) . Even the free version of this amazing software can help ensure that your application is well-written and free of any spelling or grammatical mistakes. It goes well beyond the capabilities that typical word processing built-in editing can accomplish.

Now that you have all this insight on how to use ChatGPT to help with your job applications, we encourage you to give it a try! Keep in mind that the sharing of any personal information is not without risk.  

You will need to sign up (or sign in), although at the time of writing the software is  free of charge.

https://chat.openai.com/