I'm really struggling to find a job.

46 Comments

1. AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 1:39PM UTC

   I’m sorry to hear and know how hard it can be from my own bouts of searching. Recruiters have never been helpful for me as it depends on your industry to whether they respond based on what’s it in for them. What worked for me was connecting with others already in the type of position I wanted and getting their feedback. If I could find people on LinkedIn connected to them who I knew to introduce, that helped a lot. 500 is a ton of applications so my thought is try focusing on broader networking and get very targeted on the type of job you want. If you know the exact type of position and why, start telling everyone who will listen. People typically want to help and things will start flowing your way.

2. AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 3:54PM UTC

   Thank you! I will try Linkedin although I don't really have a profile and with few connections but I will definitely try! Thank you again.

3. AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 1:39PM UTC

   I hear you. I am in the same spot. I am really struggling. I have posted on here and have not received any hits yet. Hoping someone will give you some feedback. Hang in there.

4. AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 1:41PM UTC

   The applicant tracker is also something that is hard to bypass without referrals. Finding the hiring manager on LinkedIn and going direct or making a small project could help as well

5. ChrishoggApril 28,2023 at 2:07PM UTC

   Without knowing you, knowing your details, and knowing with some precision what exactly you've been doing the past 12 months or so, it's really difficult if not impossible to offer any meaningful advice.

   So:

   You ask "What should I do?" and you answer your question by saying "to keep trying" which is a good answer. However, see this: pinterest.com/pin/395331673516276612/

   It sounds like you're pushing against a "pull" door.

   You've applied to 500 jobs with 0 results. Thus, if you keep doin' what you've been doin' don't be surprised if you keep gettin' what you've been gettin'.

   Maybe it's time to try a different approach?

   Two books, read in this order: The Job Closer, and, The 2-Hour Job Search, both by Steve Dalton.

   If you are not familiar with the concept of networking and informational interviewing you really need to become so, and then, actually go out into the real world and network and informational interview.

   Hope this helps.

6. AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 4:12PM UTC

   Hi Chris, thanks for the feedback. It sounds like you may be in the recruitment sector and if so I would love to connect!

   I like the metaphor but I definitely would not say that I am pushing against a pull door. I feel like instead I am trying to pull the door but it has 2 locks that I don't have the keys to.

   It's not like I am applying to these jobs with the same resume, I change it accordingly and process it through free resume reviews and then change accordingly, as well as check with ChatGPT for extra assurance but to no avail.

   I'll quickly scan the books and see what comes up, so thanks for those recommendations.

   I do know about the concept of networking thanks but from what I have come across it is shallow so if you have any tips to boost my connections, I would appreciate them before I step out into the real dark world of corporate life!

7. ChrishoggApril 29,2023 at 12:45AM UTC

   Hi back, and thanks for the reply. I'd be happy to connect, but be sure to include a personal note, otherwise I'll ignore it. Also, take a look at the 2 networking guides in my Featured section before sending the connect request, because networking is what I'll be recommending, and if you've decided that's not going to work, nothing else I can say. linkedin.com/in/chrishogg--ohio

8. S. Maly OhrenschallApril 28,2023 at 2:08PM UTC

   What industry or roles are you targeting? I’ve found the tactics that work can vary quite a bit based on that.

   Some things ai be found helpful are 1. to get my resume to have key words and skills that match the jobs posts I’m looking at 2. on LinkedIn I focus on on key words and repute on of them that a recruiter would search for to find you as their candidate 3. build up you LI connections and stay active with posting, connecting and liking posts because it helps you stay at the top of searches 4. Try to connect with people at companies you’d like to work for to learn more from them not necessarily ask for help with a job - it’s a li get term payoff but worth building up the network

9. AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 4:15PM UTC

   Hi S.Maly, thanks for getting back to me. I am mainly focusing on management/operational/strategic consulting roles or something in government as I have worked in government and looking to branch out.

   Sorry this might be a big ask, but do you have any tips as to what to say when I try to connect with some people at the companies I would like to work at? Many thanks.

10. S. Maly OhrenschallMay 1,2023 at 1:34PM UTC

    Sorry for my delay! I usually say I’d love to lean more about the company culture or the team and ask either for any insight they have or ask if they have time for virtual coffee so ai can learn more. I get a few takers - more than if I’m asking for a referral. It is also helpful in the interview process and sometimes leads to a connection and referral down the road.

11. AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 2:17PM UTC

    For financial reasons, it js ok to pick up anything while waiting for a job to happen..

    give yourself some breathing space

12. AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 4:17PM UTC

    As I am now struggling financially having gone through my savings I will have to work in hospitality which I hate but like you said, it is something. Not sure about breathing space but its definitely down to time management if I get a role in that sector to figure out.

13. AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 2:51PM UTC

    500 jobs is a lot. I would be more selective as to where you submit. Make sure you qualify for the role. This will avoid burnout and feeling of, why isn’t anyone responding. The market is flooded with qualified candidates that match the job and not a “stretch” for the role even if you feel your skills are transferable. I would also recommend getting a job search coach who can give you guidance/constructive feedback on your resume and if you actually do qualify for the roles you are applying for. please keep your physical health and mental health as a priority during this time. Stay structured with your days between Monday through Friday and take the weekends off to re-energize yourself and practice self care. It is a very difficult market but you would benefit from a trained job search coach.

14. AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 4:18PM UTC

    Thank you! I will see if I can find a coach who will be willing to help me pro-bono considering my financial situation.

15. AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 3:22PM UTC

    I have to agree about the volume.
    I don't think I've sent out more than 100 over my 35 year career.

    I would suggest changing strategies and focus on your area of expertise with specific titles or roles & responsibilities. Networking will help you the most to identify jobs that fit you and you actually want.

    Good luck. The job market is quietly active with referrals more so than recruited candidates. Build your network and you'll have more luck.

16. AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 3:46PM UTC

    Thank you! I will try to do some outreach on Linkedin even though I don't use it and have very little connections - got to start from somewhere!

17. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistApril 29,2023 at 4:52AM UTC

    Sorry to hear that you're struggling in your job search. Typically, if you're not getting any response to your applications, it's either your resume or the positions you're applying for.

    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? Do you have a degree? If so, are you utilizing the University's job site or alumni network?

18. Thalia MoshosApril 29,2023 at 12:54PM UTC

    I've been looking for 3 years now. I'm frustrated and at the end of my patience.

19. AnonymousApril 29,2023 at 4:53PM UTC

    Sorry but this sounds impossible. 500? What are looking for? What field? Are you qualified for the jobs you are applying for? Businesses are going begging for employees and many are hiring people who are less than qualified and at inflated salaries. Without more details about you, we can’t really help you but something is very wrong here.

20. AnonymousApril 29,2023 at 7:21PM UTC

    I appreciate your input but in this job market, 500 is absolutely not impossible. Of course I am applying to jobs that i have qualifications for and if I'm applying to jobs where i don't have exact experience in but where I can transfer my skills in, I am most definitely going to apply within the business and legal sphere. I'm not in some fantasy land here and my salary expectations are most definitely more than reasonable considering inflation/cost of living crisis. I appreciate your feedback but constructive would be more helpful!

21. AnonymousApril 30,2023 at 4:41PM UTC

    This is 100% possible. My resume was done 6 times by a professional, YES 6! I applied to over 300 jobs not including those I was submitted to by a recruiter. I tailored my resume and I wrote tailored cover letters. All of that and I only had 18 prescreen recruiter interviews and 5 hiring manager interviews. I was offered 2 of the 5. I do have a job now and here's what I learned. Roughly 80% of the job descriptions didn't have that one "must have" requirement listed. I learned this through the recruiter prescreen so although I was qualified based on the JD, I wasn't qualified based on what the hiring manager wanted. There is nothing we can do about that so apply and move on. The one thing I did differently. After I applied, if a recruiter was not listed with the role, I would go to the company site on LinkedIn, chose people, and searched for a recruiter in my field. Ex. Technical Recruiter, Marketing Recruiter. Once I found someone (either in my field or a Talent Sourcer), I would send them an email including my cover letter and resume with a brief note as to why I would be a good fit. In doing this, I started getting the prescreens and ultimately a role. I recommend connecting with recruiters at consulting firms that are in your industry and letting them know you are looking for a job and do consider taking a contract role, it is better than not having any income coming in and a lot of times, these can become permanent roles. Good luck to you, it is brutal out there. Also, use very job board you can find and if you know someone, ask for a referral.

22. AnonymousApril 30,2023 at 5:11PM UTC

    I second that. I have a PhD in Pharmacology and most the jobs I apply for, based in the UK, I have the qualification/skills for. The hiring is just broken system...

23. AnonymousApril 29,2023 at 5:06PM UTC

    Revise your resume and always write a cover note for each and every role. You cannot just apply and pray. Use your network and if you do not have one make one, go to meetup groups, volunteer do temp work. Take a job in a retail store if you need to to tide you over. Don't lament because your tone will say everything when you do interview. Keep going...you don't say what time period this is over but it is takign 6 months on average for most folks to find work.

24. AnonymousApril 29,2023 at 6:46PM UTC

    Follow Workhap on IG as he is a former recruiter and gives excellent advice for situations such as this and others. Good luck.

25. AnonymousApril 29,2023 at 7:51PM UTC

    Try a completely different approach. Instead of online applications and recruiters, connect with the people at the places where you actually want to work. Ask specific questions about their personal endeavors, and show you are a smart, capable woman with value to give. I highly recommend checking out Austin Belcak's Cultivated Culture method. It changes the way you will look at getting a job in the future. https://cultivatedculture.com/

    Sending you best wishes. I know it's a tough situation, but you are going to get through it to something great.

26. AnonymousApril 29,2023 at 9:48PM UTC

    Thank you so much for your help and wishes, I'll definitely take a look! :)

27. GirlBossanova934974April 30,2023 at 12:49PM UTC

    With 500 or so applications, this definitely sounds like a resume writing issue. The fact that recruiters are ignoring your request to review it may be an indication. You may wish to consult with a resume writing service or a professional association to assist. For instance if you are in the legal profession, there may be a local legal trade association that might assist. You may also may wish to pick an industry to apply to that has a STABLE OPERATING ENVIRONMENT right now. Something like insurance would be good. You can pull up a list of various insurance companies. There are a few dozen companies that of good size. Then go to their career website and apply directly. Many companies these days do not list their jobs on job sites. Best of Luck!

28. Joan Marie VerbaApril 30,2023 at 1:35PM UTC

    I sympathize. To date, I've applied to 765 jobs without success. I have had interviews, however.

    (Yes, I've had my resume reviewed 3 times, career coaching, etc.)

    I agree with the advice to set up a LinkedIn Profile. Fill it out completely, and add the "open to work" feature. I do get job leads that way.

29. AnonymousApril 30,2023 at 1:58PM UTC

    Nick Corcodilos has some good advice on job hunting on his website "Ask the Headhunter"https://www.asktheheadhunter.com/basics/job-huntingDefinitely check it out. His advice is solid and has helped me rethink my own approaches.

30. AnonymousApril 30,2023 at 2:27PM UTC

    I used to write for a well-known job board and I'd say take stock of your job search. Are you using power words in your resume and tailoring it to each job? Is it ATS compliant (ex: skip the fancy graphics and stick with plain text).? Are you applying to jobs that match your skills and experience? For example, I know someone with no professional writing experience that's trying to apply to senior content roles, and he's upset he's not hearing back.

    In addition, I'd also make sure to update your LinkedIn profile, and use keywords/skills in your headline (Don't just put "unemployed" or "open to work." Recruiters are searching for English tutors and pediatric nurses, not "unemployed.").

    Find target companies you want to work at and network with people in the company. Referrals are powerful ways to get your resume in front of the hiring manager. If you're doing these things and it's not working, it may be time to speak to a career coach to evaluate your job search strategy.

31. AnonymousApril 30,2023 at 3:46PM UTC

    Recruiters aren't giving you feedback because 1. They don't get paid to do that, that's what a job coach is for and 2. They are busy (I reviewed over 3k resumes for one open pisition this week) and 3. They can be legally liable for anything negative they say, so most companies require them to say nothing. Also, if you're asking recruiters for feedback like you're asking here, I can see the problem. You need to be more specific. What industry are you looking for? What position? Job search for a school teacher is going to look very different then job search for a web designer. If you provide more details you will get better answers and more help.

32. AnonymousApril 30,2023 at 4:07PM UTC

    Hey there,

    first things first- I’m so sorry you’re going through this. The market is incredibly tough. I appreciate that the folks on this thread are trying to be helpful but if I’m honest, it sounds like most of them are giving advice from a position of being currently employed or not job searched recently. I think about it a lot like having children- everyone wants to give advice about kids like it’s so easy (until they have kids and then they understand that it’s easier said than done). The current job market is completely different than any time before. 500 is definitely a lot but that tells me that you’ve been diligently applying and likely putting aside your pride to apply for things your overqualified for just to get your foot in the door. I know first hand that it can been mentally taxing and disheartening.

    Here’s what I can share based on my experience: all of the suggestions above are great and you should definitely do any of them you aren’t currently doing. But in addition to that the reality is that A. With the job market as dense as it is, applying for a different field (even if you have transferable skills) probably won’t work because there are so many candidates with that exact experience who are also looking and hiring managers would rather have a sure thing than take a chance on someone they’d have to train (doesn’t make it right but it’s understandable). And B. The reality is that now more than ever it’s more who you know than what you know. With 300k people out of work and climbing, everyone and I do mean everyone is doing the phone-a-friend, calling in favors and using any edge they can possibly get to edge other people out. You can be the most qualified, knowledgeable, experienced, cultural fit and you’ll still get beat out by nepotism every day of the week. It sucks but that’s how it is right now. That also means that anyone who is still gamefully employed is probably getting bombarded with asks for help. If there is anyone at all that can help you, swallow the pill, ask for the help and ride out the wave until the market is better. If you don’t have a friend then like people mentioned above- you’ve gotta make some.

    I’d also make sure you have some awesome people in your tribe that will help pump you up because in the midst of all this rejection it can be easy to get down on yourself and think it’s you- it’s not! And you need people in your corner to remind you of that every single day until you find a job. Remember: tough times don’t last, tough people do- best of luck!

33. Bree StewartMay 2,2023 at 6:58PM UTC

    I love that

34. AnonymousApril 30,2023 at 4:48PM UTC

    Thats so incredibly frustrating. I understand how it feels to try for so long and not get anywhere. I’m very surprised at 500 applications. As an experienced professional in finance, and with experience in multiple industries, I don’t think I could find 50 positions that would fit me (and this would be pushing it), and I’m in one of the biggest cities in the US. 500 seems very high, even if you’ve been searching for years. I’m going to ask a few questions, but not necessarily for you to answer here - just ones to think about, from the perspective of both my own job searching (which at one point took over a year because I didn’t have any personal contacts in the city I moved to) and from a hiring manager’s perspective.

    • are you truly applying only for positions for which you are mostly qualified? It’s ok not to meet all the criteria, but if you only meet a small percentage of the criteria, it’s not a ‘real’ application, but a long shot.
    • are you OVERqualifed for what you’re applying for? In this case, maybe simplify your resume. I don’t recommend this in general, but we do what we have to do!
    • have you considered working part time or volunteering while you’re looking? It looks bad not to be ‘active’ in some way. It’s MUCH easier to find a job if you have one.
    • have you spent 3-4 hours of good quality work on each application? Ie researching the company and the role, writing a covering letter explaining why you fit both the role and company? Nb although some hiring managers don’t bother to look at covering letters, others base their shortlist on them, so ALWAYS better to include one, even if it is listed as optional
    • have you ensured that there are NO grammatical or spelling errors in your resume, covering letter, and application? As a hiring manager who requires attention to detail, errors would cause me to reject your application
    • related to this, have you filled out the entire application, especially the open-ended questions? I’ve rejected candidates because they’ve written ‘I think I’d like this job’ in a section where I asked them to explain why they want to work for our company - it’s probably not fair, but if another person writes a paragraph-long explanation, I’m going to assume they’re much more interested than the other candidate and shortlist them rather than the other one
    • are you applying for positions that don’t list a particular degree/certification but really require one? If so, could you obtain this before applying further?
    • have you asked a friend who hires people to look over an application to get their feedback?

    I hope these questions help. It’s awful not to have success in a job search. I hope you find something soon!

35. Susan Sims-PrittsMay 1,2023 at 3:18PM UTC

    This is a wonderful reply! As a former worker bee, supervisor, then hiring decision maker, it's difficult to say what the 'formula' is that gives one the best chance of getting an interview and/or job offer. In my experience and area of expertise, I have to say that it's who you know..... so network, network, network!!!!

36. K. AveryApril 30,2023 at 5:13PM UTC

    Try a Job Agency until you are able to land a permanent role.

37. AnonymousApril 30,2023 at 6:39PM UTC

    Registering for a temp agency may suit you better. That amount of jobs just doesn't seem realistic to not have a single follow up. So sorry about that.

38. AnonymousMay 1,2023 at 1:41AM UTC

    Good advice here but I hear you and have sent a lot out there, though being a little picky reviewing company and glassdoor first. I have a friend hiring for a role and she received over 500 resumes. If you're in tech, know it's a grind on the search right now.

39. Susan BocanskiMay 1,2023 at 11:57AM UTC

    HI - try searching this issue on the website of Work It Daily - from what I remember hearing, it's not enough to just apply online and hope for the best but rather really network with people you know and on LinkedIn. Maybe even reach out to people on LinkedIn that have the type of job you want for an informational interview. Also, hone in on what specific role you want and tailor your resume to match the job descriptions. Take some free online classes to improve any skills needed for the job roles. I know it's stressful when you really need the funds but keep at it !! Wishing you all the best!!!

40. Virginia FroleMay 1,2023 at 12:04PM UTC

    I'm sorry to hear that you've applied to so many jobs and haven't received any invitations for interviews. I understand that it can be incredibly frustrating and demotivating to keep trying and receive no feedback. Please know that you're not alone, many people are facing similar struggles, me being one of them.

    It sounds like you've put a lot of effort into tailoring your CV, which is great. However, I wanted to suggest exploring certification courses in your field or areas of interest to help broaden your skills and make you stand out amongst other job applicants. Many certification courses are available online, and many are free or offer waivers for people experiencing financial hardship. You can learn new skills, expand your knowledge base, and demonstrate to employers that you have a willingness to succeed and grow in your field.

    These courses can signal to recruiters that you're not only interested in the position but have also taken the initiative to enhance your knowledge and skills. It shows that you're a self-starter, motivated, and self-driven, all of which are essential qualities that employers look for in potential job candidates.

    Additionally, remain active in networking and pursuing job opportunities that interest you. Look for events or conferences in your field, join online professional communities, and make an effort to connect with those in the industries you want to work in. Making yourself visible and interacting with others can help create opportunities that you may not know exist.

    I hope these suggestions help; do not hesitate to seek career advice by reaching out to professionals who may have the capability to provide you with personalized recommendations to help you in your job search.

    Wishing you all the best in your job search.

41. AnonymousMay 1,2023 at 12:38PM UTC

    In my opinion, what you do not start freelancing? I know someone unemployed, with high professional background as QA, actually enrolled in Computer Sciences, studies, but as you have been not successful being hired, nowadays, for non reason, many high qualified professionals are doing nothing, even they are talented applicants and the best curriculum.

42. AnonymousMay 1,2023 at 5:38PM UTC

    There are many of us in similar straits. I've been at it for 9 months, 35 interviews out of 1000 applications. Part of it is timing, part of it is industry needs, and a good part of it is sticking with it. Take a contract job - that's what I did. It pays the bills, it is always better for your mental health to interview from a place of power (that's what having any kind of job while you are seeking new employment is good for). Find all the temp to perm recruiters out there (Adecco, Infinia, Kelly, there's a bunch) and get your resume tricked out for contract or temp to perm or just temp positions. Many industries (especially after the layoffs that have plagued tech over the last 12-18 months) are opting for temporary or contract staff for the interim - it's also a way in, if you like that company. I opted for a more aggressive process - took the contract role, and have a 3rd interview with my target company in my desired role. (It looks good). But I am not only motivated to get that role - I'm sitting easy in my chair (I'm remote only) and not anxious or thinking that I have to get this job or I'm out on the street. I'm good at what I do, I know what I want, I'm worth what I will negotiate as a compensation package. And those are your mantra. Be easy on yourself, many, many - far to many - of us are right there with you.

43. AnonymousMay 3,2023 at 3:46AM UTC

    So sorry to hear this and totally understand! I took a contract job role just as layoffs starting happening in previous role and have been applying non-stop for 3 months and just got first interview. Great your are tailoring your resume, If you are out of work helps to find a contract role in the meantime there seems to be a lot of them around at the moment and generally a fast interview process. I also found certifications/ learning and attending meetups/ professionaly organizations in your field a good way to network and find out about new roles/referrals.

    Stay positive! wishing you best of luck!

44. AnonymousMay 3,2023 at 8:44PM UTC

    Hey everyone, thank you so much for your advice and support. I'm so glad to find a supportive community and find out I'm not alone in this process. I really appreciate it.

    I have managed to get my first interview - FINALLY!!

    This won't stop me from applying to other jobs but I can at least take a deep breath and relax a bit. I will still push on and definitely try the contract work and linkedin networking approach.

    Question: does it matter how much experience I have to be a contractor - max I have 2 good years experience .

45. Susan BocanskiMay 4,2023 at 11:09AM UTC

    Congrats!

46. AnonymousMay 9,2023 at 12:34PM UTC

    So happy to hear this. You're persistence paid off. You can do it!