Losing my mind over job search

Losing my mind over job search

Today, I hit my limit with the job search. For two weeks, I have been actively interviewing for a role that at every stage of the game, the interviewers told me I was perfect for. It was a total of 7 interviews and a take-home assignment. I was so convinced that I would likely get the role, that I was looking forward to today when they said I would "100% know" and even told me to "look for good results in my email." Well, the business day has come to an end and there has been nothing. To make matters worse, the second place I have been interviewing has decided to put the post on hold, so now I feel like I am back to square one in my job search. And to make matters even worse, my severance ends on Friday!

I am seriously considering taking the rest of the week off (I can afford it) before getting back in the game. But I would love to know from the hive mind how you are dealing with an extended job search and a more unpredictable market.

I work in tech, so in the past, my job searches were generally short, so I think I am probably being unrealistic about how hard and fickle a job search can be.

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11 Comments

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  1. Anonymous

    Sadly a lot of tech jobs are being slashed and/or made obsolete, but I'm also on the job search. I work somewhere now PT but I don't care for the and it doesn't pay well, so I'm casually looking.

    I strictly limit my job searching time. Fifteen minutes each day, if I need it, and only applying to positions I truly want. I also keep in mind a set date for when I'll 'forget' about an application - if I send in an application and don't hear back, I move on. Usually it's about two weeks to a month, depending if it's government or not, and I also try my best to reach out at least once.

    I would say 80% of applications I send in never get any response, not even automated messages. I hate to say it, but you're not being unrealistic - that's how job searches are now a days. So many places will drop and ghost you at the tip of a hat. Don't let it overwhelm you!

  2. Anonymous

    I work in tech too and things have shifted drastically overnight. It is no longer the employees 'in charge'. They took the power back by doing mass layoffs. I too am looking and have been looking for a job since October. It's the longest I've taken to land a job since graduating from college and I'm a good interviewee with great skills and a killer resume. I am confident that the right job is on the horizon but it is a bit demoralizing. Just hang in there and take the time off to regroup. I know that you feel defeated after coming so close. Who knows, they may just be finalizing your offer too so don't ever be discouraged. Good luck.

  3. Susan Myers

    Job searching is a job in itself. I never had to work so hard to find a job in the past. I was into over a year of applying to over 100+ jobs that I was qualified for. I have a tremendous resume and great work background. I was a long term employee at several jobs (3+ to 15 years at one employer). Have been highly thought of and valued in several companies and with co-workers. It was a struggle emotionally and psychologically. It's the worst time to be seeking a position. I finally secured a role that I am very happy with. I enjoy what I do, enjoy my co-workers and like the Administrator very much.

  4. Anonymous

    I found pacing myself, taking plenty of steps not to burn out and to remain present and engaged in my life, not just my search. I am grateful, calm and engaged. It's easier to roll with the punches when I'm rested and have a plan in place.

  5. Anonymous

    Not sure how long it's been for you as a whole, but I would highly recommend taking some time away from the job search. It can be so frustrating and demoralizing. When I was in my 4 months of unemployment a few years ago, already had a couple of vacations planned. I debated canceling them, but they were already paid for so went ahead anyway and so glad I did. I needed that break from reality.

  6. Anonymous

    6-9 months these days is average. Take a deep breath and file for unemployment to fill the gap. Do spend only 1-2 hours per day searching and always try to get in through referrals or other connections. It is still tough and many companies have cost cut and dumped their talent teams so you often are dealing with robotic responses and lack of personalization in the search. Breathe, it may take longer but consider the long term best situation of finding a great employer that wants you!

  7. Anonymous

    I’m in tech too and you’re right it’s usually a quick turnaround when job searching - I’m seeing a good 6-9 months and the pay now is woefully low for years of experience they’re asking for - I’m thinking of seriously changing careers and starting over elsewhere

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  9. SproonkyWeb

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  11. Anonymous
    Losing your mind over a job hunt is painfully real, but I kinda disagree with the spiral into pure panic. I’ve been there, and doom-scrolling doesn’t help. Sometimes you need a hard mental reset, something totally different. I’m in Pakistan and when I’m stressed, I distract myself with low-commitment stuff like quick mobile games. I tried bc game apk, which is the mobile casino and sportsbook app (PWA) for Pakistan, and it’s at least straightforward and doesn’t overload your brain. Not saying gambling fixes life, but breaking the anxiety loop matters more than obsessing nonstop.

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