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I've applied to over 300 jobs since March and I still haven't gotten an offer.

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Anonymous

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I've applied to over 300 jobs since March and I still haven't gotten an offer.

Yes, I've customized my resume

Yes, I get interviews

Yes, I ask for feedback--if I get anything actionable it's that I'm overqualified--I am someone who has held Director roles for 7-years and am applying for Director roles. Yes, when C-suite positions that align with my background are listed, I apply for those too. Then the story is that I don't have enough experience somehow.

I'm really at a loss. My unemployment runs out next month and at this point, I'm worried that I'm going to end up blowing through all of my savings and retirement accounts because nobody will hire me. I'm really beginning to wonder what the point of any of it is anymore. I'll be 40 in a few months and it seems that my working life is over. No, I don't list dates on degrees or anything beyond the last 10-years on my resume so I'm not sure if age is a factor in my experience or not but I've been told many times by people of all ages that I don't look anywhere near my age, I look younger.

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  1. Anonymous

    As a career coach, I'm happy to have a free consultation with you. Schedule a session here: https://www.dressingroom8.com/scheduling/

  2. Anonymous

    I so feel your pain!!
    If I had advice, I'd use it on myself..

    Resumes are frustrating! Equally annoying are those ridiculous personality assessments. Employers want an 'intelligent' person..... but not too much: they'll get bored and quit.

    Frustrating!!!!!!!

  3. Anna Lovell-Nesmith Professional Burnout Specialist

    I'm so sorry to hear you're experiencing this. I would recommend Grisel Scarantino. She is a phenomenal career coach. She helps people find passion for their work again. I heard you when you said you are looking for jobs but I also heard how discouraged you are. Grisel is on LinkedIn and she offers free a strategy call. She also has a ton of free valuable content on her LinkedIn. I encourage you to reach out to her. She truly works wonders.

  4. Anonymous

    Stop promoting this person!!! You posted the same suggestion to every possible message.

  5. Anonymous

    We need to support one another.

  6. Anna Lovell-Nesmith Professional Burnout Specialist

    I'm not sure what you're talking about but unless you've personally worked with Grisel, you shouldn't discourage others sharing about people who they are sure can help others. People are asking for advice and it's important we share people we truly know can help them when they're struggling. The truth is, Grisel is THAT good. Get used to seeing me share about her because I personally know of the magic she works. I hope you truly have a blessed day.

  7. Anonymous

    Op here, I already paid for Career Coaching and TWO professional resume writers and yet here I am without any offers. So if you're going to comment trying to peddle you wears and make a buck off of misery kindly know that I honestly couldn't be ANY LESS interested in paying someone to tell me the advice that appears in every job hunt webinar and article at a premium price. Vultures, what a despicable way to make a living.

  8. Anonymous

    You will find something. I think the job market is tough right now but even tougher for senior level roles. What industry are you in?

    I have colleagues who are very well qualified in mid senior to executive roles who are still looking since December who never had gaps in their employment until now.

    just know your career is not “over” and that you are not alone.

  9. Anonymous

    Exactly right. It a very bad job market right now. Regardless of what the media says.....very few companies are hiring right now. From all indicators, the 4th quarter is going to be difficult. I'm actually gathering contract work so I can pay my bills through the new year. I'm still looking but not finding much in the way of real, legitimate job opportunities. You sound like you're finding a ton. 300 is a lot in 6 months! Good for you. I hope you find something soon.

  10. Anonymous

    This! The jobless claims and open roles data is either lagging or is missing some signals that speak to the reality of certain types of jobseekers. The reality is that even without a recession Themis is a tough market. Fewer roles, slower hiring, ghost job postings are happening in full force - maybe an over correction from the boom hiring of the last few years.

    Keep options open about income and consider contracting or consulting. That will help you anyway as you have to understand what your value add is and what the tenets of your competitive edge are.

  11. Anonymous

    300 resumes? I don't think I've applied to that many great positions in my entire career. I'm thinking that blanketing the job market might be adding to your search fatigue.

    If this is your strategy then adjust your expectations and understand that 90% of the positions are not viable matches. I'm thinking 300 director and c-suite positions are Nationwide maybe?

  12. Anonymous

    I've applied to every manager, director, and C-suite position in my field either in my state, one neighboring states, and anything that's remote and open to applicants nationwide. I'm in the nonprofit field.

  13. Anonymous

    Yes, nonprofit positions will most likely be filled via a referral. By mandate they publish the openings but chances are they will be interviewing personally recommended candidates.

    I'm sorry you're experiencing such a hard time. We are all struggling a bit harder during this economic downturn.

  14. Anonymous

    Sooo, how does that help me? Is it just screw me and my need and desire to earn a salary? Just because nobody can recommend me for a job that aligns with my experience and skillset? Like, just straight up eff me then? That's SO HELPFUL.

  15. Anonymous

    No not at all. With all your contacts at the director level in nonprofits, you keep networking and keep attending events and ensure your nonprofit network keeps you top of mind so you're the one they recommend. So you get a shot at those openings. With 300 openings at your level in nonprofits, I'd say the odds are pretty good you know people who can open a few doors.

  16. Anonymous

    Wow....really? We all are trying to share what we know to be true. No one is trying to eff anyone.

  17. Anonymous

    What type of work are you looking for?

  18. Anonymous

    I really hate to say this, but that is the sad truth. My current and last 2 jobs were offered because I knew someone on the inside. I applied to things that could have been written from MY resume, and couldn't even get an interview. And, I'm not in non-profit!!

    Tap into your personal network (check the company job site for where they work and/or flat out ask if they know of any openings). It sucks, royally, I know. Are jobs offered without a referral? I have to believe "yes". But MAN, if I'm up against someone who's been referred (not that I could ever know that), I'm not getting the job. Companies really value referrals, and reward for them.

    Good luck! It sucks out there! I know, I was in your position twice in the past 5 years.

  19. Anonymous

    Just a reality check.

  20. Andrea Prince

    I feel your pain. I have applied to 190 roles in the past 6 weeks. I have been told I am overqualified yet I am applying to VP, Senior VP and Senior Director roles. If you want to reach out to me to chat, please do. Andrea

  21. GirlBossanova934974

    It may be where you are applying. You may be using job sites which are overused by potential hires these days. I say this as I used LinkedIn to find jobs for the last 10 years but not much anymore. LinkedIn seems to have only big companies on it and there are way too many job seekers. I tried Indeed and signed up to job emails from several companies. I have had 2 interviews this week plus another today plus 3 more coming in the next week. Most are from Indeed.com and from companies that reached out to me after I signed up for job emails.

  22. Anonymous

    You're not alone! I've been looking for roles since June 2022, keep pushing and keep trusting that things work in your favor

  23. Anonymous

    Same here - run job descriptions thru chatgpt and ask for keywords, let it write your cover letter. If you see a recruiter on the job posting, apply and then tell the recruiter (send them your cover letter directly); start looking for the direct report (if the role reports to the CTO - go find them on the website and then on LinkedIn and message them, ask them to take a look at your resume and who they recommend you speak with first in the process. Take a job - any job that pays your bills, some money coming in is better than none and working while job hunting is better for your mental wellness and your mindset when you interview.

  24. Anonymous

    Have you considered alternatives? Like starting your own business, volunteering first at a place that might lead to employment, growing the network in your field by joining local meet up groups, facebook groups, etc..... learning a new skill, trying for positions outside your career path, side gigs, writing a book, asking every person you know/meet for ideas and advice.......there are options out there, they just might not be exactly what you are looking for (high level in the non-profit industry) - you may find you like something else even better! Best of luck to you - I hope this becomes a turning point in your life that makes all this hassle you've endured worth it.

  25. Explorer539760

    Check out webinars with Lisa Rangle of Chameleon Resumes. She is on LinkedIn and offers strategies for job seekers at your career level. I recommend her to anyone dealing with ageism

  26. Michele Darley

    I'd suggest working with a coach - there are other things besides applying to jobs you need to do to find the hidden job market. Sometimes when we get disparate we start applying to everything and that's not the best strategy.

  27. Explorer539760

    Thank you for this!!!

  28. BethB

    it sounds like something isn’t going as well in your interviews as you may think. It could be worth finding someone who can do a mock interview with you to spot any weaknesses.

  29. Cyndy Trivella

    You sound frustrated and I fully understand.

    There is no judgment coming from me, but I wonder if you are going too wide with your resume. Perhaps you’re applying to too many jobs and not being discerning enough.

    In the short term, have you tried sites like Upwork that may offer you contract or temp work just to keep your head above water while you continue to search?

    Also, are you networking with people who can be other sets of eyes for you? I don’t know where you’re located geographically, but many areas have job seeker networking groups where people can support each other mentally as well as serve as those extra eyes on the job market. I’m not going to suggest career counselors or resume writers because it will cost you money you may not have at this time.

    Also, just a thought, is your resume keyword optimized? ATSs are designed to trace certain words based on the specific job requisition.

    Good luck with everything.

  30. Anonymous

    ATS needs to be gone. The only thing it did was make job hunting worse.

  31. Anonymous

    You need a new strategy. Applying for endless jobs is not working, find the ones you actually want and connect with people who work there. I would also guess that there is some adjusting you need to do on how you come across in interviews. I don’t know how far along the process you are making it, but feels like if you have had a good amount of interviews you could have had an offer from at least a few of these so it’s something in the interview process. And no employer is going to give you the feedback you need. Find a coach, mentor, peer, someone to give you direct feedback that could help.

    If you are stuck in the endless applying/rejection: focus on strategic applying and connecting internally to get you in the door

    If you are interviewing with no offers in the end: focus on your interview skills and what/how you are talking about yourself

  32. Anonymous

    Downgrade apply for general managerial positions ? Then go up the ladder.. not much to climb just waiting time..

  33. Anonymous

    If there are professional organizations for people in your line of work, look there. Many allow nonmembers to see the job postings. In addition, you can look at content on their website to stay current.

    Don’t be uncomfortable reaching out to professional contacts, even if you haven’t heard from them for a while. When I have received those reach outs, I try to be encouraging, even if I have nothing substantive to offer.

    Finally, I’m sure you have your references lined up. It doesn’t hurt to reach out to them every couple months and thank them again for being a reference and letting them know that you are still looking. With how busy people are some times they forget about connections they could be making. These are interesting times, with a with HR departments saying they are desperate to find good people and good people saying they are desperate to find good jobs.

  34. Kate Hopkins

    I'm 55 and have been searching since April - you aren't too old yet! That said, my search improved dramatically when I did three things:

    • open myself up to relocation as much as you can - this is really important at the VP level and above.
    • narrow down my target opportunities - for me that means I'm *only* looking at VP/COO level positions running large medical practices. Even though I know I could transfer my skills to slightly tangential areas (ambulatory surgery centers, for example), it isn't worth my time trying to fit a round peg into a square hole. You need to be able to state what you're looking for and what your value is in a few sentences.
    • find the recruiters/executive search firms who fill those positions and get on their radar. Sometimes they post the positions, sometimes they don't. I spent a day identifying all the healthcare recruiters I could find across the US and sent them my resume with a one sentence description of what I'm looking to do. Many have a way for candidates to submit their resumes, and if they don't, just send a direct email with your resume. I'm currently interviewing with two good opportunities based on those cold emails to recruiters.

    Good luck and don't loose heart.

  35. Anonymous

    Wow you wrote a post that matches my experience this year! It’s been crickets out here.

    My strategy although a bit different has been focusing on distinct roles at various companies. I’ve also worked my network 80% of the time and 20% has been applying.

    I just don’t get it and I’m still seeking like you. I was a Senior Director in the HCM space for 15 years. My experience is deep and wide in this industry. Someone mentioned that ATS’s should be gone. I helped companies and more specifically HR Teams with ATS, Onboarding, Performance and Learning and I feel like I shot myself in the foot with ATS.

    I have gone around and around trying to figure out why my application has not made it to at least a Prescreen stage based on my experience. Is it that I applied to late, is it that I’m asking too much in compensation, is it the recruiters, who might not be mature enough or skilled enough in understanding how to take candidates through the process, are they overwhelmed, is it that companies are posting but secretly holding onto the positions because they want to appear like they’re hiring but aren’t, are there silent hires, are there silent postings…??

    I am at an age where many of my peers are experiencing exactly the same thing. One mentioned that she finally landed a position after two years and she felt it took so long because it had everything to do with her age. Why can’t recruiters see that my skills would transfer to a position within the client side as a ‘SME’ for HR technology? Or for that matter why wouldn’t IT see that having a former software expert come in from the HCM space to represent their interests and needs in assuring that what they purchased or want to purchase aligns to their goals locally regionally or globally. (But if anyone knows of needing such a candidate please let me know.).

    I just don’t get it especially in a low unemployment rate why folks like you and I are feeling this and it doesn’t matter our role. I’m not giving up as I just started a class on AI/Machine Learning Bootcamp hoping that this may take me down a different path.

    Thanks for posting as I appreciate the opportunity to relieve my thoughts too and knowing I’m not alone thinking and feeling the same frustration.

  36. Anonymous

    Thanks for your post. It sounds like many of us are going through the same thing. Would you mind sharing which AI/Machine Learning Bootcamp you are doing and what you think of it?

  37. Anonymous

    Sure thing. I qualified for the WIOWA program. I’m in Illinois and worked through a job assistant program. The government is paying for me to do through school. Just look it up go through what it takes to do the paper work and you’ll find it’s one of the offered topics to find a college or university to take the class. Let me know if you need anything else.

  38. Anonymous

    I went through the same frustration for a year and a half , so hang in there! You are very young (I was late 50s and job searching). A few ideas that helped me:

    Customize your resume to very clearly match the job description. I thought I was but when I fine tuned more I got more interviews and an offer.

    Focus on select companies and check their job pages regularly.

    Consider stepping back a level to get into desired company and then work your way up.

    Practice, practice, practice your various interview answers so they are quick and easy stories so you will be relaxed and conversational during the interview.

    Best of luck with your search!

  39. Anonymous

    great advice . i'm in same situation, transitioning in late 50's and received offer. practice builds confidence. treat it like a conversation, not an interview and you will shine. you have time to grow!

  40. Anonymous

    Oh, man. I feel you. Check with your department of labor - you might be able to get an extension on unemployment, as long as you can show that you've been proactively searching for jobs (I kept a spreadsheet with all the jobs I applied to and the date that I applied to them, as well as dates of interviews if I had them - that really worked in my favor). You might have to attend a seminar at the unemployment office, but it will be worth it for the extra weeks!

  41. Anonymous

    Thank you for this. I have been keeping records of all of my activities.

  42. Marcia Smith

    I am 56 and have over 20 years' experience in my field. I started jobhunting on June 23 and have submitted 109 applications and had 28 interviews. I turned down 1 job offer and am in the process of getting another. I have gotten 25 rejections and withdrew from 2 positions - and this is with more than 20 years of experience.

    The competition for 100% remote jobs is really intense, with often 250-1000+ applicants.

    What types of jobs are you applying for? If you applying with a broad scope, you will likely have to submit more applications. If you narrow your focus and network, you will spend more time, but ultimately apply for fewer applications.

    How many interviews are you getting? I list jobs going back all the way to 2000 - the workforce is getting older and I'm not concerned about ageism. If a potential company is going to disparage mature workers, then I am NOT interested in working for them.

    I have been interviewed by MANY young managers - some seem incredibly capable and friendly, while others are clearly lacking in many areas.

    This youtube video has (I think) the best video about creating/optimizing your resume - and I have followed this format with great success: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4G7ZeOZp7G4

  43. Anonymous

    Thank you for sharing this was so helpful!!

  44. Marcia Smith

    any time!!!! I am happy to help :)

  45. Mary Letizi

    I feel your frustration. The job market is like this at all levels. I don't really understand it and the way recruiters and hiring managers are ghosting job hunters. I went to school for medical billing and coding. However, when it comes to this particular job nobody wants to hire you w/o experience. One time, I thought for sure I was hired. The hiring manager really liked me. She talked about onboarding, what a good fit I would be, and training me to suit their business would not be an issue. She did tell me there was one more interview she was obligated to do. So a week went by and I didn't hear anything. I called her cell and she said she had COVID and it would be another week and a half before she could get back to me. I did not hear anything from her after the time frame she said. Well, I started calling, texting and emailing, I got no communication. I even went back to the office where she worked and she was too busy to see me.. It was agonizing and frustrating. Finally after another week and a half, I received a generic email saying they went with other candidate. So, I was stuck in a catch 22 situation and all the rejections was taking a toll on me. I thought to myself I could keep doing what wasn't working or come up with a new plan. After well over a year of looking for a job, I decided to go back to school for another career. I am now pursuing Radiology Tech, which the medical field everywhere has a deficit of. I am 60 years old and just saying that sometimes a career switch is necessary. I would like to say to all those recruiters and hiring managers out there that it is already understood that they are busy doing their job but it would be nice for them to have some integrity along with follow up for candidates whom they interviewed. They could one day be on the receiving end of this same lack of conscience. Stay strong job hunters!

  46. Anonymous

    I’m so sick of seeing these types of stories - it’s just plain wrong and I pray for your success

  47. Anonymous

    I'm completing my PhD in subject area related to my area of professional expertise. I think I'd set my hair on fire if I had to go back to school again. I do wish all of the luck in the world on your new adventure.

  48. Suzanne Strickland

    I’m in that middle of waiting too! It’s not the same world

  49. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist

    Recruiters already know what it's like to be a candidate. We go through the exact same job search process as everyone else. There is no special express lane for recruiters in a job search.

    Many times, we're the first to be let go. Recruiters have been very hard hit in these most recent rounds of layoffs, with entire Talent Acquisition teams being let go. Which is one reason that some candidates are not hearing back from their recruiter.

    When I was in my own last job search, I was ghosted on the regular.

  50. Anonymous

    Im in the same boat as you and I’m pretty sure that ageist prejudice is at work here. more and more jobs are given to “freshers” from outside the US because they are cheaper and will work through all types of treatment which is appealing to the horrible

    managers now. It’s getting very frightening how bad it’s becoming. Best of luck to you!

  51. Anonymous

    Just know, you aren’t alone. I feel a little better about my situation reading this. My unemployment also runs out next month. I’m in a full on panic.

  52. Q

    I wonder if when you apply for the c-suite roles you looking younger and being female is working against you, while the director level roles they may feel you are going to be itchy in the role because you are at the top end of their qualifications and don't have anywhere to move you to? It's just a theory. I also look much younger than my age, and have found that while it can work in my favor for not being dismissed as "too old" right off the bat, it means I do not look the part when it comes to highest level roles. For reference, I am 46 and have been actively working in technology since I was 19, so 27 years of experience. My only advice is to go after those stretch roles but think about changing how you present yourself. I'm in the process of assessing my own presentation. You don't necessarily want to look old, but you want to look like experience is walking in the door when they meet you for those higher positions. Perhaps a style consultant or someone who can coach on speaking style as well could help. I know I'm thinking about it!

  53. Anonymous

    Thank you, this was very valuable feedback. This is totally something worth thinking about.

  54. Anonymous

    Sad to say but the job market is pretty rough now all round. Have you tried blogging or speaking at events in your area of expertise? Volunteer at places where your skills can be benefitted and see also if there are any agencies that can place you in interim roles in your area of experience as well. Most hires are taking 6-9 months these days. Don't give up....

  55. Anonymous

    All of us "look younger"........this isn't your mom's world anymore.

  56. Suzanne Strickland

    Actually, we really “all” don’t. (I do, but I always have.)

  57. Cortney Spencer

    Your career isn’t over I promise. It took me a full year and a half to get a director level job after countless interviews. I am 48. This is a tough market. Keep going.

  58. tiffany birch

    Are you saying when you received anything actionable for Director roles you are over qualified? And, when you interview for C-suite positions that you don't have enough experience? Pull what made you happy with last position and add what makes you stand out. What makes you successful? What are your soft skills that stand out? Remember if we focus on age, so will others. See yourself in an age that you feel good about, especially since you don't look it. Relax, you've got this. Keep networking. Much success.

  59. Anonymous

    Vulture.

  60. Maegan, Nike Sales Rep & Career Coach

    I have helped 10+ women completely change the trajectories of their career with new roles and higher salaries. I am here to help, deliver value, and offer expertise.

    May we all continue to encourage, and elevate Womens work as valuable and worthy of serving others + getting paid at the same time.

    Thank you for your comment.

  61. Anonymous

    Keep going you got this. You might want to perform some Mock Interviews with some individuals in your Network. Especially those that are at a Director Level. By during this you may find how you communicated your experiences did not come across clearly to the Interviewer. I experienced this and after two mock interviews that included some great feedback, I received Job Offers from my next two interviews.

  62. Anonymous

    40? Seriously, 40? What I wouldn't give to be 40 again in my career. Don't be so hard on yourself. It's a tough, tough market right now. The pendulum always swings back to employers scambling to fill roles. HANG IN THERE!

  63. Jenny

    Ageism for women begins at birth but really revs up by 36 and by 50 most of us are underemployed. We have to do something but I don't know what.

  64. Taylor Peters

    We went from not having to work at all. The fact that we have only really been equally in the workforce for less than 100 years and have a amazing number of CEOs, business owners, and management that are female is a huge success. Considering we spend more time off still taking on the matriarch role in the home. Not ever woman was going to be at the top of their career just like not ever man but atleast being a housewife never working is a viable choice unlike majority of men. When you are in your youth you should start being realistic. If you don't think you have the skills to maintain the lifestyle you want till retirement then get a partner. Accept being dependent and be happy you can. The reality isn't that you can't get a job at 50, you can't get a high value partner at 50 or one that can advance overtime easily. I stress easily, there are plenty of people over 50 that find wonderful partners and are able to retire. We should accept reality as women. We aren't majority physically strong so a lot of jobs are not possible. Majority of women are average intelligence, we have great empathy and nurturing instincts which gives us a whole market men just suck at. We need to stop competing with men and start complementing. If a woman can be CEO or in STEM great, but we all can't. Just like not all men can be creative directors, marketers, teachers, nurses, etc. We also need to stop treating our original role as a bad thing. Being a wife and mother is what creates better people for a better world. If mothers and fathers are at work who is raising the children? Media and strangers. We need to start being honest, realistic, and humble. Be proud of all aspects of womanhood. Or you will live your whole life being a man and die like most men. Unfulfilled, angry, broken, and alone.

  65. Anonymous

    What in the TradWife nonsense is this comment?

  66. Anonymous

    Agreed and I am in my 50s, but the point of my post is that 40 is not ancient. I finally had enough ground beneath me at 40 to be taken seriously at an executive level.

  67. Emily

    I'm 36 and got a new job this year, so not quite. May be you or your resume.

  68. Jenny

    The struggle is real. I became homeless after losing my job to bullies in the government. Women and particularly any minority can remain unemployed for many years during a crisis and women 50 and over are likely to be underemployed. This isn't meant to be discouraging but to let you know that it's not your fault and you could be the best employee on earth but companies often hire for flash not cash. They're in the business of making money but often choose the wrong candidates. Waiting for someone to see your value can be a disappointment. Many women work for themselves and find ways to survive. After turning 36 my job prospects declined and at near 50, I haven't worked in a full time salaried job for 20 years. But I do not have a degree or car which most jobs require. I also look and can quote my current boss, "like a child" and still cannot find a job. When I listed only 10 years of experience on my resume to avoid ageism, one company paid me $8,000 less than similarly qualified candidates and was later told that because of that I was paid accordingly. Meanwhile my male friends my age also list 10 years of experience and it does not impact their final salary. Things work against women in invisible ways that have huge visible consequences. One reality that may be difficult to hear is that women are not supportive of other women at work so you have to be your own advocate at work and create a huge support system out of work. Any chip on your shoulder at work will be seen as a fatal flaw. Creating a chosen family outside of work and finding ways to have fun is fulfilling in ways a career can't tap. Money would be great but that's tough to capture right now.

  69. Anonymous

    "Things work against women in invisible ways that have huge visible consequences." THAT is one of the most insightful things I have ever read on here! You are so right that this does not happen to men. Men are valued late in their careers but a woman is considered old. As an over-50 woman unable to secure a full-time job with benefits in my field for more than four years, it becomes demoralizing. Sometimes debilitating. I don't see any light at the end of the tunnel for us.

  70. Carol Brumer Gliksman

    I have not read through all the comments so I apologize if this duplicates what others have said. Hope you are networking in your profession and with your alumni circles. Is there a professional support network where you live that meets in person or online? Are you able to do something interim or part time outside your field until you are offered a position in your field? Can you apply for extended benefits?

  71. Anonymous

    Same for me and I am limited to where I can work right now. Everything has changed post Covid Millenials think they rule the HR world, and if you are over 40, chances go down.

  72. Danielle Wilson

    I’m a millennial and have experienced this exact same problem. What I’ve experienced is, “I’m too young” (30’s) to be in a director role, even though I’m currently in one. Your network is your net worth, which I whole heartedly believe. What I did differently was branching out of my comfort zone by joining local/virtually networking events, redraft my resume to all job descriptions and networking with friends/family/past colleagues etc. Always push through the No’s because someone will see your potential. I’m hoping this person does just that before they do.

  73. Jenny

    My experience as a woman of color is that we are always too young and look like children despite being high performers and bringing in $$ lol. Never stop producing excellent work. They can't lie about you. In my former role as a top performer, they attempted to lie which backfired as it was too far fetched to be believed. They lost face and last I heard they whisper disappointment frequently. lol. The bullies and my managers know that they are no longer viewed positively. Justice comes in different forms.

  74. Anonymous

    I wonder if your attitude (“millennials think they rule the HR world”) is coming through more than you realize. It’s easier to hear an edge of disdain than many realize. Millennials are currently 27-42 so yes, we would expect to see them in the management roles including HR. Your bias that you’re free with writing here might be holding you back. Might be worth examining if you can release that!

  75. Emily

    That doesn't make sense as many millennials are in their early 40's.

  76. Jenny

    For women age discrimination begins around 36. We are always too young or too old. The workplace has a toxic class system.

  77. Taylor Peters

    At that point may just need to go in your network. You may not get director but maybe something even higher if your over qualified. If you have a lot of degrees maybe look into teaching? Even if it's just a community college it's something to get you out there. I'm not saying you are desperate but it might be time to get creative or branch out. Your talent may be needed elsewhere. Also, if you have savings then maybe take a job that's different and has some growth. You have some cushion to take a little risk. Maybe something you always wanted to do but couldn't go in that direction in the past. Worse case is you have your bills paid and you just stay open to the job you want.

  78. Anonymous

    Take a lower ranked job and keep looking. Maybe consider contracting hourly until the right thing appears. I have a Ph.D. and once drove a grain truck to get through. I am 81 and still working. Your age is not the problem.

  79. Anonymous

    Don’t give up. I was and have been a Plant Manager for many years. I was turned down for so many roles of that caliber it makes no sense. I accepted a supervisory role that has been much more than the title. Don’t give up. I pray you find something soon that will align with your core values and make you extremely happy. Best of luck

  80. Anonymous

    With degrees and your experience, I would contact a Head Hunter

  81. Anonymous

    Seconding this as it's how I got my role (+ converted to full-time years ago). Most staffing firms do more than temp work (but even a contract job may turn into something permanent) and really know the ins-and-outs of the industries they serve. Try to meet with 2-3 firms in your area, and see if they have current placement opportunities that fit or if they're expecting any soon. In my experience, it's a great way to leapfrog the traditional applicant pools and be sure that when you're interviewing that you're a serious contender. Companies using staffing firms/head hunters are trying to save time and resources and since they're paying for the services, they're motivated to keep the timeline reasonable. Finally, you CAN negotiate pay even if you're a contract hire (a firm can usually give you a good idea of the top number, even if the company is tight-lipped). In the event that you convert to full-time, find out when "finders fee" timeline ends and negotiate that fee into your next raise (it was already in the budget!).

  82. Crystal Thompson

    Your resume is what sets you apart from others. Have you considered having your resume reviewed by a professional resume writer? Or interview coaching/prep responses to all the common questions etc. I would try to determine at what step of the process am I losing their interest. If you’re getting plenty of interviews it’s not the resume, then it may be the interview prep that’s needed etc…

  83. Anonymous

    Op here, I have worked with TWO professional resume writer and a Career Coach specifically around interviewing. It was all be warming, smile more, and use the STAR format to answer behavior questions--I'm continuing to do all of it but I'm cynical if it's making a difference or not.

  84. Teresa Engledove Cox

    Hi! I’m sorry to hear of your distressing job search. Have you considered going into business for yourself? I would like to speak with you to discuss an opportunity where you can apply your Directorship background. If interested, please let me know so we can schedule a time.

  85. Anonymous

    OP here, if you're looking to sell me on Career or Life Coaching, I'm not interested.

  86. Anonymous

    These types of posts are demoralizing. Being sold to feels less than sincere. I've personally had enough insincerity to last a lifetime.

  87. Anonymous

    Same. I had my resume written by professionals. I customize cover letters, have all the key words to suit various algorithms and still zilch. Its a hard market I get it. I am at least grateful I get responses saying thanks but no thanks.

  88. Anonymous

    I'm going to go out on a limb and say the whole system is broken. If you read all of the posts on this site and look at them holistically, it appears that the workforce in general is an extremely toxic place, specifically for women. We need a revolution in the workforce where the cards are stacked in our favor.

  89. Jenny

    I am still contending with PTSD after two white men sexually harassed me. It was very subtle and I hate to use the term sexual harassment but when I rejected them they refused to include me in plumb assignments that I applied for. As a general rule, anyone who applies is interviewed but I was not interviewed so I know that it was related to the rejection. But I've finally found a medication that has helped and this community that so far has been supportive.

  90. Paul R. Smith

    I am a man who has had similar experiences. I am in my mid 50's and I've done all the things, checked all the boxes. The system isn't broken because there is no system. Every company does what they do to recruit and hire in the way they know how. A few do a good job and MOST don't. They all have some sort of system but I believe it is an inward focused system based on their needs and wants with no regard for the job seeker. Not only is this bad for them, it is bad for their brand! It will only get worse when companies start to believe the AI will be better to screen and maybe even interview candidates.

    I don't know the answer but there could be a niche/gap here for an entrepreneurial minded person who wants to help companies with their hiring process.

    I

  91. R Ruiz (Ruizy)

    that is a great idea!

  92. Paul R Smith

    go for it RRuiz!

  93. Jenny

    My friends who are my age and older are struggling with declining pay and underemployment. My previous boss was so desperate for a job that he bullied me and manipulated everyone around him. He was in his mid 60's and could barely walk. He previously commuted 2 hours each way. It's hard for everyone. I think we need something better. Between bosses like to people like us who are in our primes but yet seen as less potential as younger candidates, companies are bleeding out from poor hiring choices. Had my company not lost nearly 500 million during the crisis, I would not have been hired, they needed quality candidates not the prettiest lol. So keep your spirits up, they will find you.

  94. Anonymous

    The market is just really lousy right now. I was laid off in the Summer of 2022 and have yet to secure a full time gig. BUT, I've been freelancing since last fall and at first it stressed me out, but now I love it. I have about 3 - 4 clients that I rotate through, all of which were word of mouth through a friend or former colleague. I still apply to jobs that I find through LinkedIn, but majority of the time I never hear back or get the generic reject email. What I will say is to be open and lean into colleagues. That has been key for me. Try not to get too discouraged, you're doing everything you can!

  95. R Ruiz (Ruizy)

    Hi, I'm currently unemployed as well. Agree that the job market sucks right now lol. Wondering if you would be open to sharing what you are doing as a freelancer? I'm a nurse so unsure what "niche" I would possible be able to try but would love any insight or suggestions on how to get started doing some kind of freelance. At this point, I don't even care what it is LOL

  96. Anonymous

    If you are open to it, as a Nurse, there are many opportunities in Canada.

  97. R Ruiz (Ruizy)

    Im in Texan, Unsure I could work remotely from her to there ( lic may not be valid) and unable to move . But I love Canada!

  98. Anonymous

    Join the club. I personally would love to encourage and ask you to consider every angle and all options but am going to speak franky as here is my reality. (And not speaking in my normal business acumen tone.) I get accused of being negative, after too many years, when I started to lay out harsh facts and reality a couple yrs ago and speak the truth no one wants to hear because I was at ground zero already. (And truth.. is definitely also working against me... admitting to people I was tapped and going hungry has been used against me rather than help)

    Even lower positions have not been interested and there are less and less executive level jobs opening. I dont even get asked for interviews anymote. Yet if I help somone else with resumes they immediately do (esp white men). And my resumes and skills were reviewed by fellows at exec levels who state I am extremely impressive and a stellar candidate (and actually a threat to higher positions).... and would hire me IF they had an opening. (Note, they dont control the investor cash so cannot have a say without major justification..and need to protect their own jobs). And try living like this for several years, since 2016 elections due to racism that is apparent and the only 2 jobs since, I received either bullying abuse (severe) or had accounts stripped and reassigned as soon as business was serious so they could label me as poor performer then lay off .. with no legal recourse each time and no help or family (I even reported to local senators and congressmen looking for help... and the laws have not caught up to remote workers who are bullied yet). And I used to be considered top 5% of candidates until the 2016 election. Savings gone, retirement gone, personal side line customers left (same reason.. and was asked to work for free !! Paid if and when company might go to IPO in future... note start ups without any business registration!!) And so on. I have gone short on food budget now regularly sadly, grown my own sprouts and am creative in kitchen to make scraps using clearance groceries & boxed contents to last in meals for several days to weeks at a time when needed.

    I am in midst of career ending. Highest achievers in certain fields are now being used for extreme "coverage" jobs for companies with major budget cut extremes as investors pull money out unless they get top return share (including any missing funds from pandemic...which they all said they would of course "wipe" and never did.) And the "gen z" hires without any experience take jobs for less money except those in very popular fields like IT or investment types with high turn overs.

    This is an era of the "flim flam" business men and women who pitch proposals for extreme big money because the big money players only want massive returns and look for a "sexy trend" to invest into, not for new companies that create jobs. They all spout big mouth tactics using only AI data without any real testing, and whoever delivers the best pitch gets the bucks. Unfortunately, many more fail than succeed and the investors simply take the loss and move on leaving crippled workers in a society that looks at low income jobless now in a prejudiced manner. Look at Musk and trump backed companies.. .. and how quickly they shift directions leaving massive layoffs and small money people in the dust while they remain fine and richer than ever.... even if there was no real business ever created.

    The lions are busy bullying and taking again. I have tried everything but refuse to lower ethics to their level and refuse to be used as regulatory cop out / scape goat for when they cheat (also happening) and do not have a professional "tribe" anymore (died during last few yrs or politically shifted after division in this country and has not stopped)...

    And the last bullying boss made me take off mask in a dangerous area and now I have long covid without insurance and suffer the worst of fatigue, vision and other issues but have zero healthcare options (tried everything here too)... until I have a tax return that is in poverty level enough to get me food stamps and public insurance, but will have to stop going to all of my long term doctors and be at the mercy of the government assigned doctors, meds and plans.

    I thought also about giving up not just in jobs... but worse.....esp as many other negative financial situations have hit (none were my fault) and I am without family or any options left. Definitely have body and looks enough for dating but found wealthier or at least employed solvent types in dating pools never date ppl over 50 who do not have any assets or sufficient income because I am considered a lesser person. My education and exposure does not get along well with the less educated and lower income types either for dating.. so it means my future is very very bleak here.

    And I never had enough money to create the type of secure product or asset to sell.. and that is the only place where investors give value anymore; without these, I am considered "valueless" every year that passes in this country.

    Am now applying to outside of field with transitional skills and looking at selling anything and everything .. maybe even looking for help with friends out of country who might be able to put me up so I can start over with some hope of ever retiring (probably a never at this point)...

    Like the French phrase? "tout recommencer a zero"

    Agism, gender, being the wrong race (not white or African american), single... all seems to be a curse used to define and create prejudice now so that the young fast money people and older wall street or silicon valley investors can steal and take from me even more through basic life needs (housing, food, medical). Smh

    Good luck to you. Find your professional "tribe" and make a choice to play their game or not (note I also refused to "sleep" with many "professional men" in my former "tribe" and that truth came out too... they are not helping me and hurting me instead, and again, no place to report... they were not coworkers in same company, they were company owners or global execs.) You do have at least 10-15 more yrs than me .. which is a huge plus in which to decide your personal boundaries and a new future plan since 10-20 yrs is a good length for new career. (I DONT have that anymore..... Looking younger in my 50s (about 40) has not helped.. they only see my age and color. I no longer have money for COL or advanced education (which also, when older, they seek to offer less and less options or help for) but continue to take "free" online courses and join any webinars I can to try to stay up to date. If I can scrounge up some cash in between, I have put into professional conferences over my own health needs and cut even more on groceries and never go out anymore unless someone else is paying or private events.. because I cannot afford to, not even gas.)

    Also, I would take any event or moment out of my house as a serious potential networking event too. It has helped with some sidelines and other areas, just for a few bucks to carry me through a week or two here and there. Reality sucks... being homeless in the streets will be worse. Sure am petrified of ny future, but have no choice anymore.

    And the hardest part, after a couple years of begging for job help by telling my personal truth... I found people are less likely to tell me of job openings if I speak about the reality of my situation... or worse.. they are willing to compromise me further (ie.. as in when no witnesses are present things like: Sexual favor suggestions, lead me on, hide their bullying management style and feel comfortable cursing me out when in a bad mood or suggesting I take blame for something they did in error in order to save my job...and worse.. jumbling records to not compensate fully in a manner that is extremely hard to prove without years of litigation, which I do not have 50K for...

    (And no pro bono atty was interested because they are seeking faster money!!))

    So, searching for jobs while trying to maintain some semblance of pride, customized resumes with smiles at interviews, and never sharing your truth of existence in your professional tribe... and searching for a new tribe if no one is helping.... ALL sadly are what is expected now. I am telling you these because I have been dumped for being honest and professional when my closest "tribe" people passed away. The others left dont care about me.. heck they won't remember me if I die. But they love the rest of the "pretend" world that investors live in today and play golf with "business first" very right leaning politicians and have their careers and savings in tact. You can either choose to play out their game with wherever you can loosen your boundaries or, create your own assets that they might actually want. (Harder.. ) or.. create a totally different existence, smaller business or sideline income or anything you can to stay afloat like I have, just do not assume you are older yet, and set goals accordingly before you become like me... a few steps before nothing.

  99. Anonymous

    You should write a book. Seriously, you need to write and get this all off your chest properly. As you write, and edit, you will examine your truth and your unhappiness will turn to constructive gain, and to something that others will appreciate reading. Either turn your experience into fiction, which might be the most lucrative option, or write a social commentary book. I'm in the UK and I am, on purpose, going to reference a couple of ideas of purposely unrelated books that might spark some ideas; Poor, by Katriona O'Sullivan, and Low Born, by Kerry Hudson. I have, absolutely on purpose, gone for gritty reality stories that are NOT about your experience as described above, because you have your own story to tell, but they do show that stories of challenge are important, and well read. Honestly, I think there is so much meat on the bone here, that you have got a book. Whether you use your reality for fiction, or tell your exact story, as you write you elevate the experience from something you're suffering very keenly, into something you are observing, understanding and recording. And, ultimately, you're turning it to your profit. It's only a suggestion, and if it seems unkind, I promise you that is not my intention, but I think, wow, I would really like to know more. This is the longest post on this site that I've ever read, and I wanted to read it, from start to finish.

  100. Anonymous

    Sorry you have gone through such an ordeal but you need to seek therapy. While I'm glad you feel comfortable venting here, it will not get you the assistance you need to work through your issues. While you may like your long term doctors if applying for your state version of Medicaid may not be what you like, its what you need so you can get the medical care and mental health therapy you need. Those plans do not"assign" you doctors. They place you on a private insurance carrier and you would need to pick from a list of a provided in network providers, just as you would with a private insurance carrier. Its also disingenuous and insulting of you to indicate that your not the "right race" with African American being one of the "right races." As if African Americans have it easier. There is a huge wealth disparity between whites and African Americans. African Americans have a larger rate of unemployment. Racism didn't start with the 2016 election, its been here for over a century.

  101. Meagan Mosher

    Use a temp agency - find a position in a different field at the moment. Don't give up. Keep trying and don't become a statistic. Maybe it's time for you to look at a new option or change your career path. Look at it from a different perspective. That's what I have done and I'm in a position that I love thankfully for now. Just my thoughts. I know it's hard to think about, but you need to be creative and think about the larger picture and the future for yourself. It's a hard thought to process for sure...

  102. Anonymous

    Okay to give you some hope, I'm 60 and started my last job last April. I an Executive Assistant and love my job. I recently have started just doing some job searchers as it's been slightly slower and the last time that happened I was laid off at 59. So I'm doing do diligence to see if I have options. I have had 5 interviews. I'm not sure I really want to change jobs, but just keeping my options open.

    I don't think it's an age thing. It may not be a resume thing either, but you may want to see about getting an interview coach or something. They can maybe give you some insights. I wish you the best of luck.

  103. Anonymous

    Maybe it has been too much. I agree with someone else who suggested looking in a different field or using a temp agency.

    It feels like a huge fall, but, my mom was an office manager and really kicked a$$, but her company went bankrupt. She at one point was working in a nursing home and another time doing background checks, and these were not supervisor positions. She had her own business, too. Anything to support herself while she kept looking.

    At one point I worked as a cleaning lady. (It was actually a secret dream of mine because I thought I'd be good at it. I wasn't.) But I had started a business and was building a client base.

    It shakes the cobwebs from your brain and takes the desperation out of your eyes. You get to see other humans again and build relationships.

    If it sucks, you've got motivation to leave! This could be wrong advice, but you have to get something. Overqualified feels like an excuse. The nicest emails that I get from clients who say they'll call again for my services are always goodbye emails.

    Good luck!

    Posting anonymously bc I put my mom's business out there.

  104. Anonymous

    Good advice. Did you start a cleaning business? Why are clients who say they'll use your services again "goodbye clients?"

  105. Anonymous

    Me again! Writing/content creation. And I do tutoring as well. My business is for writing services, basically.

    But I didn't understand how to market myself or organize my time.

    One client was a maddening person. He kept changing what he wanted to have done in meetings with his web design guy, and then when I was in meetings with these guys I would find out that he wanted different content.

    Then, because his web design guy was slow, he asked me to figure out the design for the main webpage. The web guy was making everything from scratch. I knew some coding, but not enough back then. I spent a ridiculous amount of timentrying to figure it out. In way over my head.

    Anyway, I got an email that said I was great, but they were going in a different direction, etc.

    I wanted out, anyway. This guy also had a closed head injury and I think it affected his memory. He would get upset with us, thinking we were not performing, but he wasn't clear or consistent.

    The second one just happened. I was teaching someone English, actually. She was a horrible student. Really. They sent her to a camp. I thought immersion was a great idea. Before camp, I got at least two long messages thanking me for the help and assuring me that we would talk after camp. Now the girl is taking a class with her best friend. I think it is the best chance she has to learn (she is in another country).

    Anyway, it feels like goodbye. I tried really hard, but I couldn't get the kid to study and it took so much to get her just to speak and occasionally type. She even said no to me when I told her to get a pencil and paper for a quiz. She said that she didn't like to write. (!)

    Her mother said that she is spoiled.

    Anyway, when you have a good person who works hard and is qualified but you don't think that they are competent or they aren't working out, or they aren't a good fit...

    whatever...then you sort of oversell how good they were to soften the blow. I think?

  106. Johanna Mason

    I have been working Contracts assignments, Remote/Hybrid since 2019. Love the variety. Utilizing my skills & learning new. Project Mgmt is where it's at. I can share my organizations link with anyone, just reach out. I'll check for a place to post on this site too.

  107. Maureen Laneski

    How do you get health insurance?

  108. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist

    The last three contracting companies I worked for all offered health benefits.

  109. Mary Letizi

    At 60 years, I am a job seeker too. I have read many posts from others like myself and I see things can be so much worse than what I have experienced. My heart is heavy for many of you. I wonder to myself, what has happened to our culture? I have momentary lapses of self pity, but then I regroup with a new plan because that's the only thing you can do. I don't mean to sound morose. I guess I'm self reflecting on the latest turn in our society.

  110. Anonymous

    Use AI to rewrite your resume. Start temping to lessen the anxiety of job searching. Temping also gives you access to companies that may be hiring.

    https://www.computerworld.com/article/3688336/job-seekers-are-using-chatgpt-to-write-resumes-and-nabbing-jobs.html

  111. Anonymous

    Just keep applying for various jobs. Yet, you may need to customize or edit your resume as needed.

  112. Anonymous

    I believe that many companies are eliminating management roles and leaning towards more "flat" organizations, i.e. Facebook. Therefore, there will be fewer executive roles available. I have seen more "worker bees" roles than management roles lately. The only exception is expertise with data projects, such as Data Strategy, Data Governance, Data Management, Metadata Management, etc. because many companies are in a rush to implement AI/MtM (Artificial Intelligence - ChatGPT type). I would suggest becoming a consultant, starting your own consulting company or even obtain further education in fields that are "hot" now.

  113. Anonymous

    I'm in the process of completing a PhD. The thought of an additional education makes me want to set my hair on fire.

  114. Jenny

    that would be my only dream, to get a phd. Never cared for money or family. Lol.

  115. Jenny

    This is happening everywhere. The executives never added value and the hours and pay were taken from workers doing the hard labor on the ground. My current company was bleeding out hundreds of millions with poor service by not providing hours and pay to retain staff who provide the vast majority of value. They terminated almost all mid level executives and we have gotten a slight pay increase and finally nearly full time hours.

  116. Anonymous

    Use AI to rewrite your resume.

    Start temping. It will lessen the anxiety while you job search and give you access to companies that may be hiring. The temp job could become permanent.

    https://www.computerworld.com/article/3688336/job-seekers-are-using-chatgpt-to-write-resumes-and-nabbing-jobs.html

  117. Anonymous

    I really feel your pain. I am also up to 600 applications since April, pre-COVID I had no problem getting multiple job offers. I was laid off in April from my position as IT Manager, and have been customising my resume, cover letter to each job. Using ChatGPT to help bridge any gaps. Feedback is all either I am lacking experience, or way over qualified.

  118. Anonymous

    I am so sorry you are experiencing this the market is tough enough let alone all the yo-yo business going on in the hiring world. I found my last position through my network on Linkedin. I wrote a post stating what I was looking for and asked for my network to help me. I admit it felt very strange doing the ask, the out pour of help and comments and reposts though was incredible and I wound up with three offers. Utilize your networks word of mouth is the way to go these days.

  119. Anonymous

    The job search can be frustrating. I am a Human Resources Analyst having to look for a job for the first time in 25 years.

    1)If you haven't already done so, I would work with a recruiting firm. Usually, the company that hires you pays the bill.

    2) I would sign up for some free courses on Coursera which would show that you are open to learning and growth which shows you are flexible.

    3) Your prep work for each interview should be a couple of hours' worth. Make sure that you read the reviews of the company you are applying to. That helps you understand the culture of the organization.

    4) Practice a mock interview with a trusted friend or family member. Very important to do. My teenager gently told me I was responding like a robot.

    5) Remember soft skills are very important, technical skills can always be taught but people skills cannot.

  120. Robyn

    I’m so sorry to this is happening, but you are not alone. I too am having the same situation. I’ve done the work, am working with a coach, made all the updates and continue to do so. I keep getting told from all of my network that it is coming down to many of the roles already have candidates in mind and the interviews are due diligence for compliance. It’s very disheartening. Have you thought of transitioning into self employment? Maybe consulting and diversifying income streams? I know it doesn’t feel good, but keep pushing forward. Don’t give up. And try to find some peace for yourself (I started a small garden and we take day trips to the mountains). While it doesn’t fix the stress of the situation, it does give a break for my mind. I wish you best and I too am taking the advice and keep pushing forward. Take care!

  121. Jenny

    Yes my company has to interview at least three people for each job so they do not appear incompliant with DEI standards and other metrics. Its disheartening because these candidate walk in so hopeful, you can see in their faces how deserpate they are even when they try to hide it. With my current job I took two anxiety pills so I would not look as depressed as I felt and not come off as anything other than willing to do the job and treat others with dignity. My other coworker drives 3 hours round trip, no one gave us a chance in the health care field where we are now because we didn't ahve the education, and we both are being actively recruited by our current company. The issue is for her the commute and for me the pay will stay the same so we both have to stay steady and wait out the recession. PS. We were both voted the best employees and to think that we spent years of slammed doors. Keep trying. Someone will see beneath the things that don't shine. BTW I make shit pay with shit conditions but I genuinely enjoy the work itself and the patients. In three months I obtained my college certificate and nursing assistant license. The first time in 20 years I was able to push forward despite the managers antagonism. And they've recognized that I am the best at what I do. I spent 20 years being told that since I wasn't hired something was wrong with me, I gained 35 pounds and was bed ridden for a year. We all dust ourselves off and make the best of what we've got but sometimes you need a pity party of one. Keep trying and rest when you can't.

  122. Mary Shaffer

    I don't know what your area of expertise is, but perhaps join some professional organizations where you can meet and greet with other professionals in your field. The old adage of "...it's not what you know, it's WHO you know..." is actually very true. Having a direct connection or recommendation into a company can make a ton of difference. Best of luck!!

  123. Anonymous

    You are not alone. I have been searching for over 3 months and have had several interviews. It makes me feel hopeless and my confidence is diminishing. I keep telling myself that it's the market and it is cutthroat. Thank you for sharing your experience.

  124. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist

    I know it doesn't help pay the bills but in this market, 3 months is not that long to be in a job search. Are you getting interviews? Making it to second or third round?

  125. Anonymous

    It is the market. Ruthless!!!

  126. Jenny

    It took me 11 months to find a living wage job after one job stopped paying me and I left. It's ruthless here with employers being able to scam us due to the cost of living crisis and chronic unemployment. I'm watching a movie now where a successful attorney criticizes her unemployed sister who has a learning disability. Its ruthless in the US. I truly feel for everyone going through this and I know we can make changes. Its just recognizing how effed things are in this dog eat dog world and admitting we all don't have it figured out. Damn, I wish I could snap a finger and give everyone a job.

  127. Monique

    Try to sign up with a head hunter or for contract work.

  128. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist

    So the good news is you're getting interviews.

    If you're a Director looking to move up - and you probably should be after 7 years as a Director - you should be apply to Senior Director or VP roles, not C-Suite.

    Besides the overqualified feedback, how do you feel the interviews are going? Do you feel you're nailing them? If not, you may want to consider either practicing or having someone do mock interviews with you to sharpen that up.

    Are you making it to second and/or third rounds of interviews? Are you a finalist?

    I have a hard time believing that you're experiencing age discrimination at 40 - especially for senior level positions.

  129. Jenny

    My company now only hires uneducated and untrained staff after they learned the hard way that training from the ground up is the only way to build skills. They had been hiring only highly education staff that were very disappointing.

  130. Anonymous

    I don't think it's age. It's the market.

    Everything I read says things in the job market will begin to some back spring of next year. In the meantime I'm holding down a part-time bartending job and contract work for a utility company. My unemployment ran out last month but my bills are paid and I'm ok.

  131. Anonymous

    Have you reached 40? If not the reality will decimate all joy in your life. By 50 half of all women are unemployed or underemployed. By not rallying around this issue, we can incidentally allow it to go on for another hundred years.

  132. Anonymous

    I'm over 60. I've been through recessions, very high times and steady employment.

  133. Jenny

    Count your blessing and continue to do well and continue to support others who have fewer blessings in life.

  134. Amy MRP

    Thank you! I need prayers :-)

  135. Anonymous

    I agree. Women need to lead a work force revolution that serves them. I'm over 50 and underemployed, and I've been sending out resumes for years. Granted, not every day, but you would think that somewhere along the line with my background or education I'd get a bite. Meanwhile, I see men making much more money and be afforded entitlements for simply mediocre work. Yes, ageism exists for both sexes, but it's doubly worse for women because we're already dealing with inequities.

  136. Anonymous

    If you are being told that you are over qualified, start looking for the higher up positions. Also, hanging out and collecting unemployment for six months is not awesome. Get a job doing something you like to do for the interim. That way you look like you want to work as opposed looking lazy. Just a pointer. I am retired at 52 years of age and for the last 10 years have been working part time at what I love, landscape nursery and ski school! However, even when doing my career, when I was unemployed, I was working doing odd jobs at horse facilities, greenhouses, you name it. I never collected unemployment for more than a few weeks. Get out there! DO something besides look! Just my two cents worth. Good luck!

  137. Erica Mitchell

    You are assuming she's just "hanging out" collecting unemployment. There could be a good reason she has has had to collect unemployment. I don't think collecting for 6 months makes her look lazy. She stated she's been actively looking for a job. My advice is to ask next time.

  138. Anonymous

    Thank you!

  139. Anonymous

    Good advice to keep busy doing something in addition to the job hunting. I'm planning to look for some temp work to keep my head in the game of work structure. I found job hunting full time without something else mixed in there really messed with my head and heightened my anxiety. Even though I was spending countless hours every week (40-50hrs) working on the job hunt, upskilling, social media presence, networking, job applications, etc. , I felt stuck like I had no forward movement and was running in place exhausting myself. I got some contracting work and found it helped a lot to have that structure of showing up to work on something. Folding something in where you get paid something and do actual work can be very beneficial to your mindset. But perhaps that was just me!

  140. Jenny

    Have you ever lost your job due to circumstances beyond your control? The average personal crisis in terms of requiring benefits is 9 months while the average it takes to find a similar living wage full time job is 2 years. This means that the 6 months of unemployment is a small fraction of what's necessary to move onward. Some people cannot afford to interview once benefits run out. Before covid when my company was bought and shut down I was required to work 20 hours a week for food stamps. 80 hours of free labor for $197 a month in food benefits in an area where the average one bedroom studio is $1600. When I told the social worker over seeing my benefit distribution that I could not afford to $6 a day bus ride to and from the "job" she said my benefits would be cut and they were. I applied for thousands of jobs but 99% of companies use a bot to filter through resume's. If a job wants three years of microsoft experience and it's not on your already long resume, it could filter you out. The advice changes from day to day but minority candidates know that listing min wage food service to land a mid level banking job where you've had 2 years of experience isn't going to help no matter how many polished HR professionals on TV claim that they look for go getters willing to work any job until they find the right one. I made this mistake when i was paid about 8k less than other 5th year associates because I chose to list only about 12-15 years of experience but left off min wag jobs as suggested by my recruiter leading my resume to span 10 years. Without calling me to negotiate a wage they gave me a low starting salary and put the fear in me when they said all HR are on covid leave so I had to give them an asnwer on the spot. After a year of unemployment I took it but I didn't know I was the lowest paid. Things happen without our control and all we can do is know better for next time. 6 months of truly preparing and resting is the least that the government could provide given the job market. Interim work is not always great as you could make less than the unemployment with mounting debt and never be rested enough to start a business or get a living wage job. Everyone ultimately has to do what's right for them. But I want to dispell the myth that unemployment is bad or the person isn't trying hard enough.

  141. Anonymous

    Do you realize how obnoxious you sound? What did they say that led you to believe that they're just hanging out as you put it?

  142. Anonymous

    You are young...it's not your age. It's the market... Spend a little time on linkedin and you will see people reporting being laid off...every day, my feed has no less than 5 people being furloughed, or 25% of a workforce reduced. It happened to me 5 years ago too...my CV is stellar, and I have 9 years of post- high school education...ITS A MESS out there. .. When I was really struggling to get substantial work again, I actually reached out to one of my graduate school professors whom I have great respect for... She has the pulse on the world of work and i was seeking her guidance., And she gave me some very disgruntling advice for me at the time...I didn't want to hear what she had to say! but 5 years further down the road, I realize that she was and is correct. she told me to lower my sites, and be willing take a job that felt menial in comparison to what I had...she saud " take anything"... She told me tighten up my budget and lifestyle. And take anything that came along, That was remotely related to my prior work... I did not want to hear Her advice!. Because I felt like she was telling me to sell myself short.... But over the next few years, I saw that she was right. I applied for many jobs that I was well qualified for and didn't even get an interview... I have letters of recommendation which are outstanding, but if you can't even get the interview no one can see those letters. My goals and objectives began to change, painfully so, , And I also started realizing the importance of developing a life outside of work. I literally did not know who I was without a corporate title!!... So this was a season of self discovery for me. It's now been five years and I am making quite a bit less than I used to make, but I have a high quality position that I can expand upon if I wish. I have opportunities to work hard and be recognized period but at the present time i've decided to pursue some other things in my life outside of work.. Activities and relationships that give me real joy. I'm not trying to pop your bubble but the world is different Post-COVID and I don't think it's ever going to be back to what it was... You will learn to live on less money and painfully learn. The harsh reality of corporate america in 2023... In the meantime , do some volunteer work and make some networking connections centered around a cause you care about. Sometimes when we are looking for a job, we can get too much in our own head and life will pass you by.. Don't let that happen... But you might have to adjust your sites, Not because you are unworthy but because the world of work is different now

  143. Anonymous

    I wish the media were more forthcoming about how this job market is AWFUL. I feel like it's always, "Unemployment down! Hiring up!" And they mean for jobs at McDonald's.

  144. LORI-ANN BURLINGAME

    Have you registered with any executive employment services? Project work may not be what you are looking for, but it can be a stopgap. What about networking? Higher level positions can be difficult to get and usually require a recommendation. Wishing you the best in your job search. Start a vision board and envision yourself at the company where you want to work. Stay positive!

  145. Anonymous

    What are these executive employment services? Where do you find them? What do you mean by registering for them?

  146. LORI-ANN BURLINGAME

    Go on to Google or anyother ssearch enginer and seaerch for executive employment services. Each service has its own process -- you can learn more on their websites. In addition, to applying for jobs, what others steps have you taken? Do you have a plan that you are working?

  147. Anonymous

    Is there an admin here? I don't think marketing posts are productive.

  148. Anonymous

    I'm sending you first and foremost a HUG because absolutely the SAME situation. I am starting to believe hiring is picking up this September as I've been contacted FINALLY for jobs I applied to months ago. A lot of people kind of told me to change my personality because I am working now in the South and to get used to their culture but I didn't give up. And I'm glad I didn't. I'd be miserable at another bad cultural fit for me. People also told me to volunteer which astonishingly, I offered and got no responses from that either. (Thank goodness I had wonderful volunteer experiences/connections prior to this terrible period of my life.) Maybe this sounds like Positive Panda stuff but I believe something is right for you jsut around the corner. (I'm 100% with you looking younger, etc.). Take a breath and consider jobs you applied for months ago are probably just getting to you in the pile and someone is going to recognize you.

  149. Anonymous

    I know how you feel. I resigned from a job in December 2022 where I had been for 5 years. The new job didn't work out, hence in June was unemployed. I have had 15+ interviews and no offer. Your age has nothing to do with it. ... Unless you are interviewing with 20 and 30 somethings.

    Fast forward to current, I realized I had to evaluate my communication skills. Also that was the feedback from company interviewers. So, I practiced interviewing using the camera app on my smartphone. Ugh, it was a huge eye-opener. I come across as a person with no confidence. My verbal skills need S.O.S. I need assistance by using Toastmaster or another resource.
    It sounds like your resume is generating interest. You can check that off. There seems to be a disconnect in the virtual face / face. Are you interviewing wearing professional attire? Is your virtual background professionally boring? Prepare for mock interview and video yourself. Another tip I am trying to apply is to "go where people are."

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