I'm looking for advice.

46 Comments

1. AnonymousFebruary 2,2023 at 5:38PM UTC

   The first thing to do is to reduce your stress and anxiety.

   While understandable, these feelings are not helpful to you in moving forward,

   Steps that you can take to reduce your unemployment-induced stress and anxiety:

   -Recognize that finding a new job could take awhile, especially during an economic downturn. Prepare for a marathon, not for a sprint. Most important, don’t blame yourself for the layoff.
   -Spend time with supportive friends and family. It’s important to pick the correct people. Pick optimistic people who provide encouragement. Note that spouses are often too close to the situation to be supportive.
   -Pare your budget to the extent practicable. See a credit counselor if needed. If you rent an apartment, can you take in a roommate or terminate your lease and move in with friends and family? If you own a home, can you talk with your banker about temporarily restructuring your mortgage, or can you rent a room out to a lodger? Reduced financial obligations will lessen your stress and anxiety.
   -Work exercise and relaxing activities (being in nature, listening to music) into your schedule. Spend quality time with your child. These activities will make you more resilient, optimistic and successful in your job search.
   -Don’t become emotionally invested in the job hunting process. Put your best face forward, but don’t fall in love with any particular company or position until you are hired. Remaining emotionally detached will further reduce your stress and anxiety and allow you to keep moving forward.
   -You are fortunate that you enjoyed the flexibility of your most recent job. That gives you an idea of what might be a good fit for you in your next job.

2. AnonymousFebruary 2,2023 at 6:19PM UTC

   The first thing to do is relax (I know that hard in your situation).
   I have a similar background but I am in my 50's. I did not finish my degree because I could not afford to. I applied to over 200 jobs in the last few months and I have plenty of relevant work experience, but I did not get hired. Many recruiters told me they would like to recommend me based on my work record but without a degree there isn't anything they can do. I kept applying and included a paragraph on my cover letter to let the employer know that even though I am not a traditional candidate, I have accomplished quite a bit professionally without a degree. This finally landed an interview that led to a job offer. The road to get here was long. There are plenty of us willing and qualified to work, but breaking through the "paper ceiling" is even more difficult than it used to be. I suggest you keep trying, stay as positive as possible and know you will find an opportunity. You are not alone many of us are facing similar situations. I decided that in addition to my new job, I will work on completing my degree on-line. A recruiter suggested that even getting an on-line degree in a "quick" program that uses some "life experiences" for credit will help get interviews. Good luck in your search, I know you will find something soon!

3. Lesa Edwards, Career Coach & Master Resume WriterFebruary 2,2023 at 7:45PM UTC

   I agree with what others have said, and I would add: Your anxiety and stress levels are "out of control" because of what you are thinking about your situation...not the situation itself. I promise this is true.

   Of course, there are breathing exercises, yoga...all the things. But until you work on your mindset the efforts you make will be slamming up against your brain.

   I've done a number of podcast episodes on this topic; here's one of my favorites: https://www.exclusivecareercoaching.com/posts/2020-11-18-154-5-ways-mind-drama-can-creep-into-your-job-search-with-jane-springer

4. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistFebruary 3,2023 at 5:33AM UTC

   These days, a job search is a marathon - not a sprint. 50 jobs is not necessarily that many to have applied to and it typically takes months to land a new position - some folks have been looking for a year.

   Since you've had no bites, it's either your resume or the positions you're applying for.

   Companies are still hiring.

   Look at the bottom of the job description in the requirements section and keep an eye out for something along the lines of "BA/BS or combination of education and experience". If there's a position that you're really interested in that requires a degree, you can take a shot and apply anyway - but only if you won't let the potential for increased rejection make you nuts.

   What have you done so far in your job search? Where do you have your resume posted? How often are you updating those profiles?

   Is your LinkedIn profile filled out and up to snuff? Do you have the green “open to work” banner on your LI profile and the other “open to work” indicator that recruiters with a LinkedIn Recruiter license can see?

   Are there specialty job sites you could be using?

   What did the career coach tell you?

5. Gisele CloutierFebruary 3,2023 at 2:07PM UTC

   One thing you can do to minimize the negative reactions you might be getting from hiring organizations still stuck in that gotta-have-a-degree mentality is this: Include a section in your resume, at the end, called "Education" and phrase it exactly like this (with the real info, this is an example): Northern Utopia College, Utopia, XX, BS Retail Management studies, 20xx-20xx." Notice the word "studies" - you're not saying you have a BS in Retail Management or whatever, but rather that you were in that degree program and got two or however many years done in it.

   And take heart, organizations are slowly coming to the realization that a degree isn't always necessary. Look at state governments, for example (this article is a little outdated but it has a good list: https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/articles/2017-11-13/no-college-degree-in-these-states-no-problem.) Maryland, Colorado and other states have since done the same.

6. AnonymousFebruary 3,2023 at 5:21PM UTC

   It is taking 3-6 months to find work these days for most prospective job seekers. Take time, research the companies that interest you and write a well defined skills resume. Take the time to write a cover note and use linkedin to see who might give you an in. Keep looking and if you are seeking other retail roles often showing up in person makes the difference.

7. Westley CroomsFebruary 4,2023 at 1:13PM UTC

   Try insurance sales your qualifications fit their needs

8. AnonymousFebruary 4,2023 at 1:23PM UTC

   consider the process as a quality time with your child, be strong, good luck!

9. Stephanie CiboroskyFebruary 4,2023 at 1:32PM UTC

   I highly recommend the book “Beyond Positive Thinking” by Dr. Robert Anthony. It will give you the right perspective to persevere through challenging times. Just remember this is only a detour to your final destination, and you were meant to take a different path. Keep pushing! You got this!

10. james stewartFebruary 4,2023 at 1:24PM UTC

    Try your chance in the Security Officer world they are always hiring inexperienced officers

11. Linda JunoFebruary 4,2023 at 1:29PM UTC

    Hi, I understand your dilemma. One good thing is you have youth on your side I am almost 60 and I had to reinvent my life in my middle late fifties. There was a lot of age and sex discrimination although no one talked about it it was prevalent. I know you're going to think I'm kind of weird but I don't care, pray and ask God to direct you to where he wants you to be. Ask him to open doors of opportunity, be open-minded and if something comes into your head don't immediately dismiss it follow through and see what it is and what it would mean for you to have that job. You are young intelligent and if you have a good work ethic you will not only find a good job you will find a job you love. I am almost 60 and have finally found a job where I belong get along with everyone make a huge difference and really want to stay here until I retire and 8 to 10 years. Have faith! Tell God you believe and trust in him thank him in advance for your ideal job. It's not easy, but things that are valuable and worthwhile rarely are. I will say a prayer that God directs you and gives you wisdom and discernment. Times have changed a lot in the last few years. Employers are very cautious because people show up for 2 weeks collect a check and then don't come back. Make sure that you stand out, make a phone call don't just send an email even stop by the place you've applied to smile and introduce yourself in person there's no way they'll forget you. I know it sounds old-fashioned, but trust me it works. God bless you you will be employed in your dream job soon I have faith of it.

12. Lorraine LaneFebruary 4,2023 at 1:34PM UTC

    Anonymous, Getting laid off is not fun. Having been through that experience myself and helping countless others through that journey, I offer this counsel. Make finding a new job your current job. Here's what I advise my clients to do: #1

13. Adele FriedelFebruary 4,2023 at 1:38PM UTC

    I agree with some of the postings heee. I would add… no matter how long it’s been, reach out to people you know. Look them up in LinkedIn. Talk with them. I got my current job by doing exactly this.

14. Afo Ogbeyalu KaluFebruary 4,2023 at 1:38PM UTC

    I would love to help . . . reach out to me via www.aokconceptsunlimited.com

15. AnonymousFebruary 4,2023 at 1:42PM UTC

    Ahh, the duality of the messages we receive. On the one hand, companies claim they can't get workers. On the other, they ghost qualified applicants. My daughter has been looking for a career position, or at least a decent job, since graduating college. She has met with the same results as you. Don't let the lack of a degree hold you back. You can always finish after you find your position. What interests you? Are you passionate about something or at least don't mind doing it for compensation? Use this downtime to learn further skills in you chosen path? That will explain any "what have you been doing" questions. There are many companies that will low-ball you. Hopefully, you can get to a place where you can entertain more than one offer although I'm sure you'd be happy with anything right now. Persevrely! These are difficult times for many right now, just how difficult is under-reported. Don't give up, rely on your support network if you have one, and be conservative with your spending. Good luck.

16. Sarah RFebruary 4,2023 at 1:53PM UTC

    I was laid off in December and posted my resume (minus address and phone number) on LinkedIn. I put my experience and what types of roles I was looking for, along with tagging people I have worked with before. It worked. I would try something similar if you use LinkedIn. Either way, reach out to your network.

17. Diane McDevittFebruary 4,2023 at 1:57PM UTC

    It’s time to revamp your resume. Focus on accomplishments not length of time in the roles. What other skills do you have? If the answer is not many - start looking at the sites like Coursera and Udacity (which can offer free courses) and upskill. Take MS office or GSuite . Good admins have customer service skills along with the skill sets for administrative assistant. Look at receptionist jobs, a good place to get your foot in the door and start leveling up. How about supporting a sales team? You can find on LinkedIn and indeed free résumé critiques and suggestions. I think this forum has résumé service’s that could help.

18. AnonymousFebruary 4,2023 at 2:27PM UTC

    I hope I can post this here to help people fill in gaps of employment and structure their work life around their home life.

    https://upshift.work/for-people/

19. AnonymousFebruary 4,2023 at 2:40PM UTC

    One thing I discovered during my unemployed period, is that job searching is a job on its own. Here are strategies you can use:

    Attend job seekers networks each week.

    Research on the job titles and responsibilities that you are targeting, and that fit your education ,experience and interests.

    Go back to school online to upskill if you need to.

    Get the free option on LinkedIn learning, through Texas Workforce Solutions.

    Networking with former colleagues, colleagues might be working in different companies. You may get job leads.

    Job search is a lot of work, but it will pay off.

20. Damie WilsonFebruary 4,2023 at 2:54PM UTC

    What are the jobs?

21. Reb562February 4,2023 at 2:55PM UTC

    The labor market has opened up a bit since last year (with all the announced layoffs). It has been easier to find people especially for office positions. Companies are being a bit selective in who they are recruiting. That being said NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK has always been the name of the game. You need to start putting yourself out there. Connect on LinkedIn. All of my jobs have been through word of mouth.

22. AnonymousFebruary 4,2023 at 3:03PM UTC

    Job searching is a full time job that can be frustrating and eat your self confidence

    don’t let it!

    I used to work in retail as a store manger for 15 years then I decided I just couldn’t do it anymore and switched fields entirely , it’s not easy to do however you can do it

    i would make list ..a detailed list of all your skills for example as a manager in retail you have excellent people skills, you have used computers I would imagine for payroll, scheduling etc. those are all skills and people skills good people skills are in demand

    i would rewrite my resume highlighting certain aspects for the industry you are applying for for example if you want to stay in a management in business highlight things that show your skills in my resume I was able to cut known loss by 15% added to Ebidta bottom line and won some awards … small awards but never the Less!

    when I decided to go into IT I stressed my people skills , my ability to act quickly and make decisions I change course rapidly etc

    build your self confidence and if you need to hire a reputable coach who can help you find those skills you have and apply them to the new jobs

    but most important be kind to yourself keep your confidence up and know it will happen when it’s right go for the jobs you want even if they are a stretch so t give up it takes time … you got this

23. GirlBossanova934974February 4,2023 at 3:04PM UTC

    2 things might help. 1) Look at the insurance industry for jobs. There are dozens of them. Type "best life insurance companies" or "best auto insurance companies" into Google. Then go to the career parts of the company website and type in "remote". 2) Make sure your Linkedin profile is up to date and in good order. Set up 2-3 daily Linkedin job posting feeds that go to your email account.

24. Julie AcostaFebruary 4,2023 at 3:12PM UTC

    Hate to say it, but going back and finishing your degree may be a good use of your time right now. Most larger organizations will require a college school diploma at minimum. The organizations I’ve worked with filters candidates out automatically even for entry level positions.

    That said, some candidates that are highly skilled and sought after may not have that requirement, such as developers. Those, however, usually have a certification or some formal specialized training.

    If neither those are options for you, consider networking and reaching out to local companies. Sometimes smaller organizations have more flexibility with their requirements and can trade-off a diploma for work experience.

    Definitely get letters of recommendation (or recommendations on your LinkedIn) to help increase your clout. Good luck!

25. Brittany Butkiewicz GonzalezFebruary 4,2023 at 3:14PM UTC

    I had recently lost my job and it took me 4 months to find a new one. I applied to about 80 jobs. Tip is most places use hiring programs to help sift through applications, make sure you slightly tweak your applications to use some of the exact key words in the job description.

26. LINDA E GARDNERFebruary 4,2023 at 3:34PM UTC

    Your layoff sounds recent, one word of advice is take a deep breath, and enjoy this time, especially with your one-year-old. I realize you need to probably get back to work, but this is a time for you to regroup. I’ve been laid off a couple times throughout my career, and it’s important for you to take care of yourself and your family first. Trust me, it will all come together. Looking for employment, is actually a full-time job and you need to be mentally prepared for it. Revisit your résumé, and maybe have an expert look at it. You said you did three jobs at once at your latest job, identify your most important accomplishments and tasks and make sure you emphasize them on your résumé. Not sure how helpful this advice is, but it will all work out. Best of luck.

27. Heather TearneyFebruary 4,2023 at 3:38PM UTC

    There is a lot of great information here for you to review and reference. As someone who was in a similar situation at one time (28 years old laid off from managing a retail store, only retail/customer service experience - but LOTS of it) I was at a loss of what to do. Retail is what I knew and I knew I was not only good, but excellent at it (track record of sales and goals being exceeded and successful trainees moving up.) I was lucky to live in an area with a large university. Guess what?!? Those skills you have are needed on the campus. They aren't necessarily retail, but the Admissions Office, the Cashier's Office, the event/conference office, new student office, they all need people who are superb at customer service, can handle a bit of stress, know how to handle rushes of work...So I would encourage you to look into job descriptions a little more carefully about the type of work behavior that they are requesting. If you can read between the lines, you might find a position that you really enjoy that you wouldn't have initially considered. Wishing you the best!

28. AnonymousFebruary 4,2023 at 3:57PM UTC

    I have changed roles a few times in the past few years, involuntarily due to covid and voluntarily due to toxicity.

    Each job on average, was 200 applications to be successful!

    So my advice is pace yourself. Be kind to yourself. The rejections are not personal, it's a game of numbers. I set a target of 20-30 applications a week...

    Totally, get a friend or an expert to look at your resume.

    Take the rejections as blessings, as if they can't see your value, do you really want to work for them?

29. JulieFebruary 4,2023 at 5:00PM UTC

    The last time I looked for a job I sent out over 300 resumes/applications. That netted me 6 interviews and 3 job offers. There are lots of online sales/customer service positions available for the meantime - same with temp agencies. A month is a very short time to be out of work. Don’t get discouraged

30. Courtney JohnsonFebruary 4,2023 at 5:19PM UTC

    So I do have a degree, but most people I worked with had masters. I met with the ceo one day, and he said he'd rather experience than education. Fortune 100 company.

31. KathrynFebruary 4,2023 at 5:22PM UTC

    I have a masters and it is difficult. Keep going you will find something even though it seems nothing will happen. I am looking and I a 50+ I feel your pain but please remember to keep your head up you will find something and so will I.

32. Beth McMurphyFebruary 4,2023 at 5:28PM UTC

    One tactic I haven’t seen mentioned yet is connecting with a good temp agency in your area. My husband and I both transitioned out of education a few years ago (in our late 30’s) and ended up at our current jobs through temp placements. Not working is incredibly stressful (insert anti-capitalist rant here), so for me the fact that I had someone else “on the team” invested in finding work for me was a big relief—job searching is so isolating! Our placement manager really understood our skills and personalities, and was able to find roles that fit for each of us, although they were very different from what we’d done before. Once we were working in our respective companies, we were able to build connections and show just how hire-able we were. We are now both in jobs we love but can walk away from when the day ends — a 180 shift from teaching! I wish you all the luck, friend!

33. AnonymousFebruary 5,2023 at 4:27PM UTC

    I agree with the temp agency idea! You will make great connections that could lead to permanent work, plus make money to pay your bills.

34. EmpoweredGirl360615February 4,2023 at 5:34PM UTC

    As a hiring manager in information technology I would look at what you bring to the table as far as skill set. What can you bring that would help a company, team move forward. When I look for candidates I am less concerned about the companies you worked for, more about the successes you’ve had in your previous roles.

    Be sure your resume reflects the all those skills it took to succeed in the multiple roles you held.

    Best of luck!!

35. Mary WehrleFebruary 4,2023 at 5:36PM UTC

    Most likely the problem is your application and resume. See if there is an employment counseling agency for job seekers where you can get some good advice on tailoring your resume and cover letter to the jobs you are applying to.

    When you apply online, your resume and cover letter are scanned for key words that match the job description. The higher the key word count, the better. Cover letters are important to increase the keyword count as well.

    Also, lock down any social media you may have if it has any pictures or something that could be seen in a negative light. Hiring managers can and will do an in line search for you.

    If you are applying for retail positions, visit the stores and get to know their products and layout. Find sincere reasons why you would want to work there and think about your skills that you have to bring to the table. Be ready to discuss those in an interview. Good luck!

36. Lynne PrestwoodFebruary 4,2023 at 6:37PM UTC

    Amazon is always hiring.

37. Faith WalkerFebruary 4,2023 at 6:40PM UTC

    I’ve been told that it takes one month to find a job for each year of experience you have in your field. It typically takes a while to find the best fit. Some recruiters are just casting their nets, and many won’t even review your resume if it is not tailored and contains the “buzz” they are seeking for the position. It’s a pain, but make sure your resume contains all of those words so you know you’ll be considered.

    Another piece of advice, if you’re not on Linked In, join and then add all of your connections. It is pricey per month, but use the monthly subscription service. If you’re already on Linked In, download your list of contacts in a spreadsheet and rate each of them as “most likely to help me”, “could probably help me, “don’t think can help me”, “other” (make that one whatever you want. Make sure you have contact info for each and list on your spreadsheet. You are going to sit down and working with the people in your first column, you are going to call or email each one of them. Do this for each of your contacts, but send a formal email to the people in your third column asking what you’re seeking, asking them to help, and providing your resume and contact information. Ask everyone in f those contacts for a date and time to call them to discuss any opportunities they have or know about, and any people they recommend you contact. This works really well and gets you out of your comfort zone. Trust the process and do it!

    Next, update your job profile on each job board each week. It could be to just add a comma and re-saving your resume. What you are looking to do here is yo make sure your resume looks fresh. Many recruiters don’t consider profiles over a month old.

    Add your resume to Linked In, Monster, and Indeed. These are good resources and Linked In resources are great.

    Lastly, you must stay the course! It’s not easy and it’s frustrating to find a new job. Give yourself some grace and don’t be hard on yourself. While you are waiting, follow up with the recruiter every other day. Learn a new skill while you’re waiting. There are a lot of mini courses you can take for free on Linked In with the monthly subscription.

    Your situation will change, but you must do everything in your power and talk with everyone you know and let them know you’re looking for a new opportunity. Never give up — you’ve got this!

38. Nichola RamchurjeeFebruary 4,2023 at 9:07PM UTC

    You cannot also be upgrading your skills to better suit some roles. I'm sure there are some agencies that provide different courses that you can complete short term and boost your resume.

39. Janet ParkhurstFebruary 4,2023 at 10:53PM UTC

    While it's unfortunate you didn't graduate from college, I don't think your experience is hurting you, at all! I think any kind of customer service is great for that next job, as just about everything today depends on good customer service. And the fact that you have already managed people should be a plus, too! Don't give up!

    Moreover, as several said, here, go after the job(s) you REALLY LIKE and leave the rest alone. I know it's hard not to panic or feel desperate--I've BEEN there!--but try to stay focused. Being "all over the place" because you're feeling the pressure of having no pay check will only dilute your energy and weaken your resolve.

    On another note? I, personally, think having to practically redo your resume for every single job you apply for is ridiculous and a waste of time. I think the cover letter (preferably, in the first paragraph) is the place to introduce yourself and showcase the skills/attributes that match the job you are interested in. Otherwise, why are we paying resume-writing professionals hundreds of dollars to create a new and relevant one, only to have to tear it up and start a new (and, possibly, poorly written) one for each job?

    I think career coaches are great for those who want to transfer their current skills to a new industry (although a good resume writer can do that, too) or for the worker who just doesn't know which direction to take her career in. And, yes, I DO agree with the poster (Nichola) who urged you to consider taking courses to upgrade your skills and knowledge and "boost your resume." Here's a trick I use: Study the job descriptions for the roles you would love to have, and check out the requirements, not just for the job functions or degrees, but also for specific areas of knowledge that would be paramount to performing those jobs. I keep a running, up-to-date list for the two careers I move between: content designer and copywriter. You don't have to spend a lot of $$$ or time training for something new or additional. Many education resources (like Continuing Ed courses) are tailored to the needs of working people who want to advance their careers (or even change careers, entirely) without having to go back to college or start all over again. And, finally, like Gloria mentioned, network, network, NETWORK. Face-to-face meetings will get you more offers or even referrals than the usual digital application (a real crap shoot, at best!) processes. To this point, attending training / educational courses in person, will get you out with people who are potentially hiring, or looking for good people to refer to those in their professional networks. to a whole new group of resources.

    I know I said "finally," above, but... another approach that has worked for me: NEVER apply for a job where they are hiring for "multiples." You'll be just a face in the crowd, your real talents will never be noticed and, because they're hiring many, they will not entertain the opportunity for salary negotiation.The job will pay what it will. Period.

    And when it comes to the most effective method of applying for jobs, don't travel the beaten path (think online applications, again). Strike out on your own--separate from the crowds. In doing so, you will eliminate the competition and be recognized for your own, irresistible merits.

    Best of luck, and I hope you find something that is worth the wait!!!

40. AnonymousFebruary 5,2023 at 2:15AM UTC

    Thousand of open roles and no one is hiring....yep. Go on LinkedIn In.. You'll see that applying and being ghosted is super commonplace... All that to say that I think sometimes we can find work in our own backyard by working with a local friend or connection. Do you do volunteer work? Do you belong to a church or school parent organization? Reach out to those kinds of connections, people who know you personally and see if someone has An opportunity they can tie you in with

41. SweetpollypurebreedFebruary 5,2023 at 8:42AM UTC
    1. Apply for unemployment insurance 2. Buy a good book on how people network for jobs, currently. 3.Take an online career test and narrow down to 3 desired job titles. 4. Review resume make sure it has necessary buzzwords (technical keywords) that need to be on resume. 5. Follow guidelines in networking book and use networking to access hidden job market. Good luck!
42. Rupali AFebruary 6,2023 at 2:22AM UTC

    Job markets have become complicated these days.. I have found I needed a social media profile.. a happy and 'breezy' one.. HR seems to go and check those out these days. Don't ask me why, it's silly.. but that's the world we live in I guess.

43. Faith WalkerFebruary 6,2023 at 8:00PM UTC

    Be very careful what you post. I would make all accounts private where HR can't view content. What's on my social media is for me and my friends. It is not a consideration of my employment.

44. Janet ParkhurstFebruary 7,2023 at 1:50AM UTC

    Absolutely! Your personal life -- in ANY form -- is NONE of HR's business.

45. EMILY KIKUE FRANKFebruary 6,2023 at 8:21PM UTC

    Does your resume reflect that you were doing more than 3 people's worth of work? Make sure it does! And if the career coaching session wasn't helpful, reach out to other coaches. Most of us offer free initial sessions, so you'll want to find someone who feels like a good fit.

46. Stephanie CayneFebruary 6,2023 at 11:34PM UTC

    Be sure to update your resume so it reflects the work you have done - and your successes. If you can, sign up for a class at a community college in a field of interest. I mention that for several reasons... it demonstrates self-development, motivation, and resourcefulness. It may also present an opportunity to get some coaching and for networking. Good luck in your search.