I have not had to interview for a job in well over 20 years.

This week’s edition of Tuesday Tea with V brings together two themes that might seem unrelated at first — internet memes and personal milestones — but both offer insight into how we connect, communicate, and grow. In the first half, I explore how memes (yes, memes!) have evolved as a marketing tool and cultural signal. I break down recent research from the Journal of Interactive Marketing and share why some memes quickly fade while others stay with us for years. Humor, when used thoughtfully, can be a powerful way to connect — even in professional spaces like LinkedIn. The second half is a more personal reflection, including updates from the past couple of weeks: → I attended Expand Your NARRAtive: A Filipino Business Mixer & Potluck → I supported my brother-in-law as he launched his campaign for local office → I participated in Fairygodboss’s own “Innovate, Impact, Inspire” event, which left me feeling energized and grateful → I had three job interviews — a reminder that continued effort often leads to forward motion → I spent a full day with an old friend, enjoying the city and a much-needed pause You might recognize one part of this newsletter: a short poem I wrote as a teenager. I shared it here on Fairygodboss for Earth Day, and it felt right to include it again in the broader context of how creativity, care, and reflection show up in our lives — even decades later. I know that many here are in the midst of transition — seeking work, rediscovering strengths, or simply figuring out what’s next. This platform has always felt like a space where those journeys are respected, and I’m honored to contribute to that conversation. If you'd like to read the full edition, you can find it here: → https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/memes-movements-momentum-insights-updates-vanessa-lontoc-mba-zhd2e/ What’s something you’ve learned (or remembered) lately that’s helping you navigate where you are now?

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If the company less interesting to you offers you a position, you should alert the other hiring manager to let him/her know that they are expecting a response in x days. (No company would expect a response on the spot; it is perfectly reasonable to take time to think about it). If they are truly interested, they will give you a decision.

I am depressed because of all the uncertainty and lack of support I am experiencing now. How do you stay motivated and not depressed when so much is out of your control?

Hello everyone, and happy Monday. Starting the week can feel heavy, especially when navigating the job search. I wanted to share something from last Friday that helped me find a little balance amidst the applications. There are days when the sheer number of job applications feels overwhelming. I've learned it's okay to recognize that feeling and allow myself to save some for later. It's a strategy I use to avoid burnout and make sure I can give each application the attention it deserves when I come back to it feeling more refreshed. Allowing myself that flexibility has been important in this process. Last Friday, after tackling some applications, I took a much-needed break. It was a truly beautiful day, feeling like real spring here in Jersey City. The weather was near perfect—no cold, no rain, the magnolia trees were in full bloom, and I could hear the birds chirping. I went to one of my favorite spots, Van Vorst Park. Sitting there, enjoying some sesame balls and golden oolong tea, I read a chapter of "Range" by David Epstein. I'm a slow reader and easily get distracted by the cute dogs walking by, but I make sure to note down parts that stand out. I keep a running list of quotes and excerpts on my phone. Two ideas from yesterday's reading really resonated with me: → Learners become better at applying their knowledge to a situation they've never seen before, which is the essence of creativity. → The more confident a learner is of their wrong answer, the better the information sticks when they subsequently learn the right answer. Tolerating big mistakes can create the best learning opportunities. These thoughts feel particularly relevant when facing new challenges or even setbacks in the job search. It's all part of the learning process. Being active and engaging online, attending webinars and events, has also led to a long list of books I want to read. Mostly non fiction, marketing, leadership, and business related. Here are a few that are on my list: ↳ "How Brands Grow" by Byron Sharp ↳ "Pepsi: 100 Years" by Bob Stoddard ↳ "The Third Gilmore Girl" by Kelly Bishop ↳ "Hustle Harder, Hustle Smarter" by 50 Cent ↳ "The Opposable Mind" by Roger Martin ↳ "The 48 Laws of Power" by Robert Green Remember, it's okay to take a break, to feel overwhelmed sometimes, and to have a process that works for you during this time. What strategies help you cope when the job search feels like a lot?