Reverse the Search: How to Turn Job Seeking into Job Shopping

by Madeline Mann

From the creator of top career YouTube channel Self Made Millennial, the only job search guide you’ll need to get employers competing for you

Are you tired of sending out dozens of job applications every day and never hearing back? Or, when you do land interviews, not getting an offer, and never knowing why? As a former recruiter and head of HR at multiple companies, Madeline Mann has seen every kind of job application under the sun, and she’s here to tell you that the antiquated job search advice you’ve been told before is all wrong.

After years of working in HR, Mann began to share her behind-the-scenes insight into the world of hiring, creating viral career tip videos and posts online—and soon amassing nearly 1 million followers across YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok. In Reverse the Search, Mann distills her juiciest advice into a concise guide on how to turn the job search around, going from job seeking to job shopping—from desperately sending out applications to having your pick of jobs. By following the simple but proven steps—beginning with determining your ideal job through negotiating your final offer—that have landed hundreds of Mann’s career coaching clients positions at dream companies, you will transform into a lifelong Job Shopper, getting recruited and attracting opportunities at every stage.

Because Job Shoppers know they deserve to land more than any old job. They deserve a job that brings meaningful work, happiness, flexibility, and financial stability. And with Reverse the Search’s help, you’ll get noticed and approached, even when you’re not actively looking a job. You will have the leverage, and you will never have to perform a soul-sucking job search again.

* This audiobook edition includes a downloadable PDF of key visual aids from the book.

PLEASE When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

Genres: Nonfiction, Audiobook, Business

Audible Audio

Published April 1, 2025

About the author

Madeline Mann is a renowned Human Resources leader and career strategist, widely recognized for her innovative approach of Job Shopping to empower professionals to attract employers and job opportunities. With a massive following across her digital platforms, Madeline has established herself as one of the leaders in job search strategy, and was named a LinkedIn Top Voice and a job search instructor on both Spotify and LinkedIn Learning.

Featured in major outlets like ABC News, Forbes, Business Insider, and The Wall Street Journal, Madeline’s expertise is sought after by both media and industry leaders. As the creator of the popular YouTube channel Self Made Millennial, she has helped countless professionals navigate the job market with her straightforward advice, humor, and evidence-based techniques.

In addition to her online presence, Madeline is the host of the reality show Job Shopper and the author of Reverse the Search published with Penguin Random House. She is also the founder of a highly successful coaching enterprise, empowering job seekers with courses, coaching programs, and tools designed to accelerate their career growth and job search success.

Madeline’s coaching programs, including the Standout Job Search, have collectively transformed the careers of thousands, bringing tangible results and generating countless success stories.

Reviews

[CatReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Madeline Mann is the founder of The Self Made Millennial social media brand - I've come across her content on LinkedIn Learning before and found it helpful. In her first book, 2025's Reverse the Search, she gives solid advice to people who are struggling with finding success in the current job market, and proactive advice to people who are currently gainfully employed but wanting to prepare for their next career move, whether its timing is in their control or not. I would say the target audience for this book are early- to mid-career white collar professionals in office-based jobs, with these tips being less relevant for those in niche, super-specialized sectors, retail, tradework, or in more senior roles who likely already know the importance of networking.

Further reading - other career development books I'd recommend:
The Career Manifesto: Discover Your Calling and Create an Extraordinary Life by Mike Steib
Strategize to Win: The New Way to Start Out, Step Up, or Start Over in Your Career by Carla Harris
The First 90 Days: Critical Success Strategies for New Leaders at All Levels by Michael Watkins
Career on Course: 10 Strategies to Take Your Career from Accidental to Intentional by Scott Jeffrey Miller

My statistics:
Book 164 for 2025
Book 2090 cumulatively

[Joel J · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an extremely encouraging resource full of excellent information both for people who are actively looking for a job as well as for folks who have a solid position now (because these days, that can change in the blink of an eye).

With a style that I found very easy to read and approachable I got through the book in under a week, and I am not a particularly fast reader. Actually applying the material is another matter--but I consider that a good thing, because there's a lot to engage with! Before I read Reverse the Search, I had a resume that I had poured hours into, trying to strike the perfect balance: keep it brief, but still showcase the skills and capabilities that I've honed over the last 10+ years. After reading this book, I realized I still have a lot of work to do: in the effort to show employers how versatile I am, and what a wide range of expertise I bring, I had hollowed out my resume to the point where it says almost nothing useful to recruiters! Thankfully, in addition to shining a bright light on the issue, the book also has a straightforward guide to write resumes that will get you noticed (at least, theoretically; I am still working through the revisions--they're straightforward, but when you've been working for as long as I have, they're also extensive!)

I consider it time well spent, as I'm refamiliarizing myself with some of my most impactful work. This not only will help the resume better represent what I bring to the table; the book also provides salient advice for preparing for interviews, which can be done at least somewhat in tandem with the resume work.

It also provides useful guidance for networking. I have yet to leverage that as extensively, as I'm currently focusing on the resume portion, but I have been working on cultivating those connections as well--IMO this is likely the best place to focus if you already have a job at the moment; it can help you find (and maybe even get introductions/interviews/positions) better opportunities, as well as reduce the time it takes to find a new position if your employment circumstances take a sudden turn for the worse.

In conclusion, I greatly enjoyed Reverse the Search and it has given me increased confidence that when the time comes for me to get a new job, I'll be ready!

[Anthony Herrejon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you 𝘫𝘰𝘣 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 or 𝘫𝘰𝘣 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨?

That is the mindset shift as outlined in Madeline Mann's new book, "Reverse the Search".

For many of us who are looking towards the next step in our career, it can seem daunting.

You might be:
→ In panic mode because you were laid off.
→ In the wrong position based on your key skills and core values.
→ In an environment that hasn't provided the right opportunities for you to grow.

Whatever the case may be, something needs to change.

If you're using the same strategy you've always used to find a job, you'll keep getting the same results.

In the first chapter of Reverse The Search, Madeline addresses the 5 Myths of Job Seeking:

🍊"It will be easier if I aim lower".
      ↳ It's easier to train skills than motivate an unchallenged employee.

🍊"The job search is a numbers game".
     ↳ 10% of roles are filled by applying online. Applying online should only be 10% of your strategy.

🍊"I need to get another degree or certification to standout".
     ↳ Getting more education can be a fancy way of procrastinating.

🍊"Things will eventually become clear, and it will all workout".
     ↳ You don't need to take a job to know whether or not it's the right fit for you.

🍊"I need to stay open to many different roles so I don't miss out on potential opportunities".
     ↳ Don't brand yourself as a swiss army knife. Companies want MVPs.

These are just a few of revelations this book has unlocked for me. 🔓

Just know, you will need to take action.

There are real time steps you will need to map out for yourself.

But I guarantee that if you can use these formulas in your real time 𝘫𝘰𝘣 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨, the companies will come to you and not the 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘦.

Maybe you have all the right ingredients for the recipe/job (the resume, the network, the work experience, etc). But you’re just missing the right amount of measurements for each ingredient.

Reverse the Search spells out in detail all the things you need to make the interviews come to you.

Don’t hesitate to make this purchase. It’s 100% worth it!

[Matthew Prime · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some things, they'll always be a bummer
Like a job board drone or two singsongy lips
You dream to make that list
Then she will insist
You next role drummer
Just like

Job Shop verse and a tangerine tip
So many you will equip
Will set up a job update
That you'll take without delay

Fresh methods and wifi high-fives
Bring your career alive
Show them you do belong
Job Shop verse and a tangerine tip

The one good thing about G.L.O.R.Y.-ing up
Is finding your target and next job thereof
You make that match seem truly perfect
Because with her you can find it all
She brings it in with

Job Shop verse and a tangerine tip
So many you will equip
Will set up a job update
That you'll take without delay

Toolboxes and wifi high-fives
Bring your career alive
Show them you do belong
Job Shop verse and a tangerine tip

Oh and you can spot and breathe
And you’ll be smiling
Because there's nothing better
Than some stories clever and a
Fresh job sheet
Just like

Job Shop verse and a tangerine tip
So many you will equip
Will set up a job update
That you'll take without delay

Well-th layups and wifi high-fives
Bring your career alive
Show them you do belong
Job Shop verse and a tangerine tip

Job Shop verse and a tangerine tip
So many you will equip
Will set up a job update
That you'll take without delay

Golden 20 and wifi high-fives
Bring your career alive
Show them you do belong
Job Shop verse and a tangerine tip

Aa-aah … aa-aah

[Noelia Alejandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Reverse the Search” by Madeline Mann is a refreshingly proactive guide that recasts the job hunt as a strategic shopping spree rather than a frantic application sprint. From the first pages, Mann’s approachable tone and clear, step-by-step framework make it easy to move from passive applicant to confident “job shopper,” armed with eye-catching resumes, persuasive LinkedIn profiles, and targeted outreach emails. Her real-world templates and practical tips—drawn from years in HR and recruiting—are immediately implementable, helping you define your ideal role, build genuine connections, and negotiate the offer you deserve.

Where the book truly shines is in its emphasis on mindset: success is measured not by the number of applications sent but by the quality of conversations held. This shift in perspective alone can transform frustration into clarity and enthusiasm, especially for early- and mid-career professionals. However, readers seeking deep, data-driven analysis or extensive case studies may find themselves craving more empirical evidence to back up the anecdotes. Likewise, the repeated “job shopper” branding can feel a bit over-emphasized at times.

Overall, “Reverse the Search” delivers a concise, actionable playbook that will empower you to take control of your career journey. Just be prepared to supplement Mann’s insights with additional research if you’re looking for heavy analytics or richly detailed success stories.

[Alexa Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most dread-inducing parts of job searching is telling people you're job searching, because whether they're a new networking connection, a family member, friend, or fellow passenger on a public bus, they are most likely to respond with one of the myths of job searching. Mann's book is the salve for this predicament.

Not only does she robustly debunk traditional job search myths and methods, but she also shows you a new way forward that's less painful and more effective.

Her book is equal parts a revealing paradigm shift and an easy-to-follow guide of specific steps to immediately implement that shift. Building on the insightful work of Dawn Graham in "Switchers: How Smart Professionals Change Careers and Seize Success" (2018), Mann's approach shows how, to emerge successful in the modern job market, everyone (career changers or otherwise) needs a refreshed approach. I appreciate the metaphors and funny commentary that keep you smiling and the book easy to read.

In a job search market that's wilder by the day (and since she wrote the book), Mann's approach nevertheless remains incredibly relevant and much-needed.

[Frieda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having many years of experience as a hiring manager working in HR, Mann provides an excellent step-by-step strategy to establish yourself as a “job shopper”. What this essentially means is that you have positioned yourself with career security, by maintaining a positive online presence and personal brand, creating and maintaining relationships within your current company and outside of it, and ensuring that your skills remain relevant in the face of changing economic times where technology continues to disrupt how we work, where we work, and what we actually do.

Being a job shopper is a lifelong commitment, something that is consistently cultivated. This book provides actionable ideas and advice that the reader can put into practice. Highly recommended for folks at all levels in their career. This book ignores old career advice based on “less competitive landscapes” and provides career advice that is modern and useful for today’s volatile and ever increasing competitive world.

[Sekhar Sridhar · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Reverse the Search" is an incredible read as it challenges you to question your existing pre-conceived, mostly negative, perceptions about the job search process. Negative perceptions such as the company has made a wrong decision by not hiring me, my application will get lost in the pile for sure, the HR is bad etc.

Madeline explains what Job Shopping means, and teaches you step-by-step on how you can craft yourself to be a hard-to-overlook candidate. She forces you to reflect upon yourself, your work history, your values, etc. write them down after parking the reading aside, then get back to reading, continue the reflection and writing. In the whole process, the above myths get busted and you realise how there are infinite possibilities you can unearth from within yourself as a professional to become a Job Shopper. As of now, I am still reading the book (been doing some reflection writing), and can't recommend it highly enough.

[Tomstraight08 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Empowering.
I've watched the author's youtube channel for a bit, and found her insights very helpful for interview prep. Good sense of humor and fun to keep things interesting. Pre-ordered the audiobook and thought it was a game-changing listen. Great clarity on what recruiters, HR, and hiring managers are looking for. Excellent and empowering suggestions for each step of the application and interview process, giving readers the tools to make themselves a must-have candidate. And literally giving the hands-on tools and resources that come with the book that can be directly applied to accomplish those effective recommendations.
Strongly recommend whether you are actively job seeking (->shopping), or wanting to plan your next move and give your career a jump start. Listening to or reading this book could have a profound impact on your job satisfaction, income, and overall quality of life. Go for it! Wi-fi High five!

[Al · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an HR expert, Madeline Mann has reviewed thousands of resumes. In this book she gives you the inside scoop on how to get ahead in the hiring game. No more senseless advice like "Be Yourself" or "Be Confident."

Instead, she gives you step-by-step strategies that have generated results for hundreds of individuals. It's not the old fluff but a new way to play the hiring game based on significant hiring changes in the last decade.

It provides a completely different perspective of the hiring process and how you can improve chances of getting hired.

In addition, her book is a fun read. She is funny and a bit toungue-in-cheek!

[Anna Kharlamova · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a highly instructive and actionable book, offering detailed guidance not only on how to improve your CV and apply for job postings, but also on how to choose a meaningful career and access the 60–70% of jobs that companies do not advertise. It also explains how to position yourself to be contacted by recruiters without ever having to apply. The book is relevant for all professionals today, especially in a time when AI is increasing job market mobility and when much of life – from dating to job searching – takes place online. It is written in a clear, structured, and motivating style. Several common myths about job seeking are debunked, which feels both refreshing and empowering.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Madeline Mann’s Reverse the Search is a game-changer for job seekers. She flips the traditional job hunt on its head, encouraging readers to become active job shoppers with a bold, strategic mindset. By emphasizing upfront investment and intentional outreach, Mann shows how to stand out and take control of your career. It’s smart, empowering, and a must-read for anyone ready to approach the job search differently.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Man, I thought I knew how to find and secure a job until I didn’t!

Reverse the Search is an entertaining read that has rapidly changed what I thought I knew about figuring out what I want, my approach to job searching/shopping and the empowerment to go and land that dream job!

Actively Job Shopping or not this book will help you discover what you really want in a career, how to stand out to get the interview and know what to do when you get there

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've followed a handful of career coaches and by far Madeline is one of the best! Not only does she have a game changing strategy she offers some of the most practical approaches that sets her apart from her peers. I'm so excited she's packaged her job shopping approach into a book. Job searching is intimidating and overwhelming but through her proven model, Madeline gives you the confidence to succeed. This applies to new grads to senior executives!

[Melissa Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I almost don't want to leave a positive review because I don't want such strong competition out there! ;)

But seriously, take your time with this one. It'll challenge you to challenge yourself. To really home in on where your strengths meet your passion and values. To fundamentally change your approach to resume writing and interviewing. And to truly trust in your transferrable skills, whether it's joining a new company in a similar industry or as part of a career shift.

[Su Jeffs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love her approach. I am slowly trying to look into a role I love and this book is more helpful than most career books. It is exceptionally well written and lays it out in key points at the end in case you feel like you have missed out on some points made by the author, which is amazing. I will go ahead and place my pre-order now as I love how the book is written and laid out

[Angela Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first stumbled upon Madeline Mann's You Tube videos a few years ago when I was looking for a job. They helped me immensely, and I remember thinking that she should write a book. When she did I bought it immediately. I love this book! It is full of great insights and ideas. It is worth every penny, will give you hope and you will refer to it again and again.

[Lakshya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been following Madeline’s YouTube and LinkedIn for a while and this was the perfect breakdown of the concept of “job shopping” into actionable steps. It provides step-by-step timelines for networking, referrals, salary negotiation, and more. This is a book I will be purchasing and re-reading regularly.

[Paul Garneau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! It's packed with very usable advice with examples and good explanations of why the techniques work. This is definitely where to start your search, even if you're still happy in your current job. I'm using the audio and hardcopy versions of the book to help me get through it faster and take good notes. I set the playback speed to 1.35x.

[David Brownlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first job seeking book that actually lays out an easy to follow plan with proven steps to land your dream job. Backed by data, experience and a philosophy that gives you the mindset not to settle. Read this book if you want a job you love!

[Kathleen McGregor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've only read the first few chapters and so far this book is awesome. I follow Madeline on YouTube and LinkedIn and she has such great knowledge to share for job seekers. I look forward to finishing this book very soon.

[Jazmyne Honeycutt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read for people struggling in the job search. I actually was complimented by a sourcer on how my linkedin and resume clearly showed how I fit the role based on the changes I made from this book, there was no guessing they had to do.

[David Faber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book that helped me to really look at my career in a new way. I would recommend it to anyone looking to grow in their career. Madeline Mann's writing style is easy to follow and very relatable.

[Annalee Malone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Madeline’s book is a rare find! It is a gift of self realization and actionable steps to getting where you want with your career. She makes it simple but you’ll need to really change your methods after reading through this! Highly recommend!

[Catherine Bryce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been implementing some of these tips already, so I know the advice works. The hardest part for a job seeker is to make that decision to narrow down what they actually want to do rather than apply everywhere.

[Nick Salenga · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book that distills proven advice that has landed thousands of clients career-defining jobs into concise guide on how to turn search around going from job seeking to job shopping from desperately sending out applications to having your pick of offers.

[Tanya Sorenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clearly written with the insights of an HR professional. Really changed my ideas of how to get hired and reframed networking.

[Khalil Dimachkie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't see it helpful or working for a career pivot or transition

[Erika Zaldívar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an eye opening exploration of the job market and how to attain career security.

[Jorge DeFlon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A pleasant guide on how to stay employable in modern times