How long is your job search taking in this current job market?

Anonymous

June 14,2023 at 4:58PM UTC

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How long is your job search taking in this current job market?

Hi All I am in a temporary contract role (which is awful company& culture) and have been job hunting for 6 months now. Although I have had some interviews they were not suitable or ghosted after. in previous years I have found a job within 3 months max. (I know all the tips of tailoring resume, writing cover letters to job description, have updated resume and linkedin many times and have extensive experience in my field)

Although I do get recruiters reach out for other contract roles alot are for similar types of companies I am in now ( I check the glassdoor reviews) so have turned them down and being selective of the contract roles I apply for and aiming for perm roles ideally)

Just wanted to check in to see how long this is taking people?

I have not experienced this difficult a job market for over a decade and wanted to see what other peoples experiences are?

I have found this time round it has take such a difficult toll on my mental health as 6 months seems like an eternity (I am seeing a therapist regularly and doing all the positive things to maintain boundaries, having downtime, exercising, hobbies) is anyone else going through the same?

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AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 5:42PM UTC
The average time to find a job right now is 6-12+ months.
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 11:03PM UTC
It's crazy but yes totally see that now! is good to know that this is the "normal" for now and not take it too personally, its good to hear that perspective from others!
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 6:05PM UTC
Take the contract roles. It will keep you motivated and could turn into a perm position.
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 11:02PM UTC
yes totally agree as am waiting on interview news for that type of role! perm and contract (as long as its a good company to avoid a repeat of current situation.)
Cecilia HolmesJune 14,2023 at 6:19PM UTC
OMG -- preach! I have been looking since the first of the year. I have done ALL the things with the resume and the linkedin and the networking with only a couple of interviews that didn't go anywhere to show for it. It's hard to keep getting up every morning and feeling like i am getting beat up or ignored. My therapist calls it ego-bruising and I think that's an apt description. Like you said, I have typically found multiple jobs within 3-4 mos. This is ridiculous! Good luck, don't settle, and hang on!
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 7:20PM UTC
Hang on is critically important advice. I wish you all the best and am pulling for you. ❤️
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 11:01PM UTC
thank you so much for your kind words of support!
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 11:01PM UTC
so sorry to hear you are in same situation! wow it really is tough this market! funny as have had similar conversations with my therapist! ego-bruising is totally spot on! I wish you all the luck in your job hunt aswell! thank you for the kind words of support!
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 6:59PM UTC
There are lots of temp-perm agencies but watch for contract roles in FlexJobs.com - you can keep the bills paid while continuing your search or be hired by the contract-ee.
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 10:59PM UTC
thank you. yes I have found alot of contract roles and have been applying for those aswell. Have you had much luck with flex.jobs? I have searched on there but not signed up yet
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 7:17PM UTC
Congrats for doing all the positive things. I tried but I was not as effective as I hoped. It is strange isn't it? The unemployment rates are low but that is not reflected in what I'm hearing about job searches. Job searches are exhausting and draining. It can be hard to stay positive and keep trying although we know that is exactly what we have to do. I have never had such a hard time as this recent search and just received an offer after several months. I was scared. I kept telling myself that this will end and I will be happy again. Stay strong, you are not alone, and you will get a great job. You will. When we keep trying, good things happen. ❤️
Becca A.June 14,2023 at 7:25PM UTC
unemployment rates are low because of just how hard it is to successfully gain unemployment benefits which I believe is where the government pulls the numbers from.
Thats the spirit, don't let the current job market climate get you down! Keep going and even take odd jobs if you need to temporarily make ends meet.
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 10:58PM UTC
Congratulations on the job offer! it gives me some relief to know this is just the 'normal' at the moment and affecting all job seekers. It can be hard to not take it personally and thank you so much for the words of support! I keep applying and keep trying!
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 7:26PM UTC
I’m currently employed (but miserable at my job). I’m applying on the side (not vigorously) but just casually, and I’ve noticed the amount of jobs open fitted for my background has dropped in numbers compared to last year or even the year before (fyi I’m looking for mid-senior level jobs in healthcare operations). Some of my friends who got laid off in the last 6 months had more trouble finding a job.
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 10:55PM UTC
Sorry to hear you are in a similar situation. I wish you all the luck in finding a new role soon! Hang in there! Stay positive. agreed number of jobs has dropped. In my field i've seen alot of contract roles but not as many permanent in tech sector thanks to all the layoffs. I have seen more jobs to apply for in the 2nd quarter of this year compared to beginning of year so hope you find something soon! Yes I heard that too about people I know who have been laid off. some searching for 6 months +!
AnonymousJune 14,2023 at 11:05PM UTC
OP here thanks all for your feedback and words of support. It's awful to think so many of us are having to go through this long mental exhausting job hunt this year.his gives me great perspective! Wishing everyone success in their job hunt! Things will get better! hang in there all! I am thankful for this great website and community!
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 3:40AM UTC
Depends on your experience, industry and location. Many variations to the question/answers
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 9:50AM UTC
I’m in a contract position also and also spend a fortune in therapy because of the stress this job is causing. I don’t blame you for holding out for a non contract permanent position. I haven’t been actively pursuing other jobs because my contract still has 3 months and I get Penilized financially if I don’t complete the full time I signed on for - think 6 months is eternity? Try a YEAR! ? Never again!!
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 10:59AM UTC
It's all dependent on the position. As a recruiter I'm taking my time to fill a position due to the area and the business it brings in. It's a highly sought after region in the US and the turnover is extremely low. It's been 3 months. I'm still good as wanting to set up the business for continued growth and for this next leader to be a good fit us and for them. Just ask on the onset of any questions with a hiring manager or recruiter on their timeframe. THEN adjust, things happen.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 12:18PM UTC
You're definitely not alone.
It's also taking longer than usual to find anything because I'm in a saturated field that's had some layoffs (not tech), is returning to on-site work, and in which the salaries have dropped below pre-pandemic levels (I live in the middle of nowhere). And my current salary is much higher than the average right now.
It's definitely impacting my mental health since I'm in an unhealthy work environment. But I think the lack of direct feedback or follow-up from recruiters is the most frustrating. It's hard when you're doing all the right things, but it isn't panning out.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 12:31PM UTC
One thing that I want to point out is that you mentioned you are now being more selective and turning down roles, where I'm assuming when you were finding roles within 3 months you were probably being less selective. That along with IMO companies having a plethora of qualified candidates available so that they can be more selective is probably why it's taking you longer to find something.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 1:34PM UTC
You’re exactly right! When you are more selective and choose to apply for higher paying jobs then the competition is brutal!
Kate WadeJune 15,2023 at 12:33PM UTC
I hear you. I am a resume writer. My clients have different experiences depending on their network and energy they put in to networking.
If it is helpful, I am starting a job-search accountability group called "Excited to Share". We will meet every week to keep our job search on-task. If you are interested, please PM me. Cost is only $250 for 6-months as this is a pilot.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 9:07PM UTC
No disrespect intended, but $250 is a lot of money for people out of work or stringing together part-time jobs 16 hours a day to survive. We tend to not have disposable income. Though the group does sound interesting.
Christine MJune 15,2023 at 12:42PM UTC
I recently read an article on LinkedIn that said it is raking 44-47 days which is longer than it has been. I’ve got a friend and she has been getting interviews all the way to the end like 2 candidates her and one other and then getting the no. Good news is there has been no ghosting!
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 12:44PM UTC
I live in Europe. And change countries now and then.
I just counted. Over the last 6 weeks, I wrote to 75 open vacancies. All fitting my experience, education etc.
From those 75, I received 4 direct "Sorry, we didn't choose you for a conversation". A few interviews. For one, I do speak the language very well, but not native. Another one, in a different country, wanted me to start within 7 days. Impossible. The rest, nothing!
Not even an automatic email. Very, very impolite.
I am awaiting an answer from, in my eyes, a very good prospect. Fingers crossed.
There are companies here that want you to start yesterday or within a few days, which is impossible when you still have a job (some countries have 2 months' notice, others 2 weeks. And everything in between) or have to move to another country.
In 2020, it took me 6 weeks to find another job (different country). At the end of 2021, it took me 2 weeks (same country). In the years before, I gave my (2 months) notice before I had another job. To make it easier to change when I wanted.
I am a native of the most asked language in Europe. And near native in the second most asked. Years of experience (several levels), good references and still I am always only offered starters jobs. Which I have accepted several times.
Not any more, I am running to my 58 birthday, and although I don't mind working in another position (often called lower) than I currently have. But an entrée position. Nope.
I don't apply for this kind of job, but still, recruiters keep contacting me about these positions.
This is my 6th week.
A good friend of mine just signed a contract today for a position in another county. It took him 7 weeks of serious applications. Same issues apply as I had. No response etc.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 12:46PM UTC
I have been looking for 7 months. I agree, I have never had this had of a time. I worry if my age is a factor.
Balanced372207June 16,2023 at 1:08PM UTC
If you are over 40, and are not tall, slim, and blonde, your age probably is a factor.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 12:46PM UTC
Hi Aon, I just want to let you know that I too have gone through everything you are. All the jobs since I was let go from my permanent one in 2022 due to structual changes, (No fault of my own) I have been through contract after contract role.
One that got extended for three months after having been there for six, then pulled also through no fault of my own and the company just said it was not through any fault of my own, that it was just a business decision.
I find that the vast majority of recruiters are ony getting contract roles through their clients and its incredibly frustrating. I have definitely not solely relied on them and applied to companies directly, worked with resume writers, life coaches, networked socially, but I find that so many of these companies even when you apply directly either just don't read your resume because they have already filled it internally to save money and only post it because legally they have to.
I am in a condunrum in trying to get out of both of these cycles and like you, have a therapist, talked to hundreds of recruiters and no one seems to have the answer. I truly empathize with you and also engage in activities I enjoy like walking, Swimming, going to the theatre if and when I can afford it and, reading and cooking all along with not trying to ask myself thousands of times a day, what is wrong with me when I have great experience and longevity at very known firms. I don't know if its ageism or if its just companies being frugal with a fear of recession... head count... whatever... I have heard it all and had it up to here.
I am very glad to know that I am not the only one going through this. It's worse than dating- like when people tell you will fiind the one when you stop looking. Well, that hasn't worked for me and I have no time to date because I am spending so much time trying to find a job. Please feel to PM me. I very much understand how you feel.
GirlBossanova934974June 15,2023 at 1:01PM UTC
Here is what I am seeing. It appears a lot more open jobs are NOT advertised on the usual outlets. Perhaps the company wants to save the ad costs? BUT when a person writes a paragraph or 2 about about themselves on LINKEDIN and puts a banner on their picture as being "OPEN TO WORK", guess what happens? All the OPEN jobs suddenly appear from all sorts of people! Comments like apply at such and such company because they have lots of openings are stated left and right. I often go through these threads to find the open jobs. And yes, I agree with you. Please read those Glassdoor reviews. Another idea? Just find who the competitors of your company are! Then go to these company's career sites and look for the remote jobs. That way, you are sure to have "industry experience". Big leg up!
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 1:19PM UTC
I am sorry for your pain. I have been searching for 2 months already, not a long time, but despite all the efforts (resume updates, LinkedIn, etc), I’ve not been successful. I think the market is changing due to recession fears and as a result, employers are on hiring freeze status for many positions. I am on unemployment benefits for survival, but getting concerned if I will ever get a decent job like my previous one. On the other hand, I am afraid to get a low pay role just to get back on the market to then realize it is not the right role or company. Ageism is real and being only 54, I am not financially ready to retire. I wish I could though. Good luck and please, stay sane.
Edited: I met with a career advisor yesterday, she told me that she got her last job 8 months ago. Applied to 4 positions and got interviewed and offered by all of them. She transitioned been a teacher to work with the state. Definitely 2023 seems different than 2022.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 6:07PM UTC
Dear one, hang in there!! I landed a job one year after my previous one reorged in 2009 & I was laid off during a horrid recession.
I was 55 and had only 2 interviews in a year! One was just above minimum wage and a long commute, so I turned it down, as I knew it would be unfair to them as I'd leave for a higher paid suitable position. Plus I was collecting more in unemployment at that time than they were able to pay me!
After 10 years, that job also reorged & layoffs, so I was 65 when I landed my current job 03/2020! Hang in there!
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 2:55AM UTC
It is so frustrating that ageism is against the law but so difficult to prove.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 1:40PM UTC
I'm on month 4! It is brutal. I've had interviews too that I thought were promising and nothing. After a while it's really demoralizing and you lose hope.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 1:43PM UTC
I’m kind of jealous that 6 months is a long time for you. I was in a group layoff and it took 16 months to find a new one ( my experience was kind of niche, so I blame that). The new company moved, so then it took me just under 3 years to find something- but that was over Covid so I think that contributed. At least you have an income and are able to be choosy. Good luck.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 1:50PM UTC
I knew the writing was on the wall last August, so I started looking then (being a little bit choosy about where I was applying). I started ramping up my search in October, and was hired into my current position in March. Total unemployed time was 4 months, not counting some contract tv work that I picked up while searching.
It's rough out there, yo.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 5:57PM UTC
Consider yourself very blessed! No disrespect here, as I've been there twice in my career (once took a full year)! Yes, even 4 months can feel like eternity while you're in it, but really, 4 months is nothing in retrospect.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 8:43PM UTC
It's definitely nothing in terms of time, but man I was stressed - I live alone in NYC, so rent was a little bit frightening. Good thing my friend was hiring on that show, so I could bring in extra money, lol
EMILY KIKUE FRANKJune 15,2023 at 1:56PM UTC
It's definitely taking longer. I'm a career counselor and many of my clients are also in long searches. I can't give you a real estimate because it varies so much based on industry, experience, and education, but longer than in the past, certainly.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 2:00PM UTC
I've been looking for another job for 3 years now...its so frustrating.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 2:12PM UTC
Its taking forever smh.....
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 2:24PM UTC
you are in very good company, trust me! i know its not always easy, but staying positive is vital; this is not a reflection on you - chin up! :)
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 2:32PM UTC
I've been unemployed since January... I search for a new job every single day with no luck so far. It's really bad out here.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 2:35PM UTC
It sounds like I wrote this. Exactly. Only difference is I'm not seeing a therapist. Seems I will never actually GET another job.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 2:46AM UTC
You will get another job. I have felt that way too.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 3:18PM UTC
I have been unemployed since July of 2022. I have been #2 choice for 3 different positions…#2 doesn’t get you the job! Anyway, early on I had someone tell me to expect to be unemployed 1 month for every 10k you made. I made 130k previously, the sad part is now all of the AI that over looks your resume if it’s not in the correct formatting and if you don’t hide the key words in white lettering in the margins of your resume…the list goes on and on and on.
all I can say is from my favorite quote from Winston Churchill he defines success as the ability to move from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm!”
Please know it’s not you, get all of your tools and crush the competition and stay positive….lots of tears might come in between.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 2:53AM UTC
Perfect quote! I love it and I relate to it. All the best to you.
AnonymousJune 17,2023 at 1:19AM UTC
I never heard hide key words in white letting on the margins. Where did you hear that.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 4:01PM UTC
Although it sucks, I am glad to hear that it's just not me, I was starting to feel a little bad about myself. I've been looking for something new since the beginning of the year. I updated my resume, updated my LinkedIn profile, working with a few recruiters (who have basically been silent for the last couple of months) and searching different job sites. I've gotten close a couple of times but then in the end they decided to go with the other person. It's pretty discouraging since it's so much work trying to find another job and working full time. It's tough to start all over again with another search.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 6:08PM UTC
A year and a half so far. It's brutal. I am pivoting from my previous role, and I'm encountering ageism, sexism and ableism, plus a very unsupportive spouse. I just keep trying and I have a few very part time gigs, but no full time offers yet.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 6:13PM UTC
Rather than relying on posted positions on LinkedIn and the like, I sought out the companies that I wanted to work for and searched their company website for their job/ career opportunity postings. That is how I landed my last two jobs. I did use a resume writing company to revamp my resume since they know the lingo that companies use to screen candidates. I am now 67 and landed my current job in the beginning of the pandemic in March, 2020.
You can get through this difficult time!!
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 6:55PM UTC
What I also do, is find jobs on LinkedIn that are mainly posted by recruiters. Then I visit the site and directly send my application. Also better for salary negotiation. No need to pay the recruiter.
I have been ghosted for years on LI. Only to get no reply at all when I am interested. Or a job interview request for a function I don't want.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 8:40PM UTC
This is great advice! Thank you! Which resume writing service did you use? I’ve used a few companies in the past 2 were not good but would like to revamp again.
Lisa SaxeJune 16,2023 at 5:59AM UTC
I was very happy with the services of Great Resumes Fast.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 6:29PM UTC
Depends on your qualifications, and the needs in your industry/community as well as the competition
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 7:19PM UTC
13 months
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 7:51PM UTC
Hello - I have been on the market for about a year now. I had 2 short term banking projects last year. BOTH were toxic and I left the second for a project with PWC that ghosted me in the middle of Onboarding.
Have been looking and even took a professional development course for two (2) months this year. Just feel like I went full circle with them and now I am exactly where I started.
So, don't feel badly. There doesn't seem to be any answers right now. Not unless you have all the bells and whistles...1) A Master's Degree; 2) 10 or more years of experience; 3) No gaps in your resume; 4) Referrals at your fingertips; 5) Can drop everything and start when they say jump!
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 8:49PM UTC
This has been my longest period searching for a new role. You are not alone in this process.
AnonymousJune 15,2023 at 10:42PM UTC
You’re not alone we are all going through this. Since COVID everything has changed
Balanced372207June 16,2023 at 1:01PM UTC
"Since COVID everything has changed." Truer words were never spoken. I was being treated for breast cancer (chemo/surgery) during the height of COVID while working in an "essential" role. It was tough. Those of us who continued to work, but didn't contract COVID were treated like heros and heroines. Now, we're treated badly.....like we did something WRONG by hanging in there.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 1:09PM UTC
I am so sorry you are experiencing this lack of respect, and I thank you for your service as an essential worker. You deserve better.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 6:32PM UTC
But it's not just COVID. I spent more than two tears BEFORE the pandemic trying to find a full-time job after being aged out of my 20+-year career. Ageism is ageism no matter the economy.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 6:34PM UTC
editing mine above: "two years" not "two tears." (millions of tears, in actuality :) )
At least I got a bit of a chuckle at my typo realization.
vicki cadieuxJune 15,2023 at 11:39PM UTC
I have been actively looking and interviewing for 2.5 years.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 2:44AM UTC
Pulling for you and thinking of you, Vicki. You are valuable.
vicki cadieuxJune 17,2023 at 7:28PM UTC
Thank you! That means quite a bit. I just feel defeated some days. I have spent my entire adult life at one company. 30 years dedicated work. New management is making it horrible and toxic. No one is interested in hiring someone like me who has done everything, but no formal degree. I network, used resume services, went to companies I KNOW I would be able to add value to. I can answer any questions put to me in interviews. I ask company specific questions but still no job offers. Seeing I am not alone makes the trials and tribulations easier to swallow.
Kari HadleyJune 16,2023 at 12:35AM UTC
Years. Good luck being a product marketing manager of a "certain age" -- no one wants to hire experience. I'm not priced out of the market, either. In fact, many of the jobs pay more than I would have asked.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 2:52AM UTC
I'm so sorry you've experienced this, Kari. There are smart/wise people out there who do value your experience. They will be lucky to have you.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 2:35AM UTC
What is your expertise and field?
Heather (she/her)June 16,2023 at 8:37AM UTC
Friends who are currently in the market are applying for literally hundreds of jobs, and many have been looking for a year or more. It's a really tough situation, and I'm sorry you're struggling with it. I hope you find something soon.
MislynJune 16,2023 at 12:05PM UTC
I applied for jobs for about a year and a half. I filled out hundreds of online applications and had maybe 20 out of a hundred reply. I know they say everyone is hiring but I did not feel that while I was looking. It’s mentally exhausting and very stressful. I started thinking I would never find anything with the pay and benefits I needed. I still continue to apply for job s because I’m hoping to find something remote and that has been an even bigger challenge.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 12:16PM UTC
Depending on the industry, it's taking 6 - 12 months to find employment. It's starting to pick up now that the debt ceiling has been resolved. Companies are still being cautious and salaries are significantly lower.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 12:38PM UTC
Six months of searching is nothing. As a woman well over 50, I have been trying to get a full-time job with benefits for more than five years. Our professional experience means nothing to the hiring/interviewing staff who are mostly in their 30s. We look like their parents and they want to see their own likenesses on the job. I fear my financial and mental health are beyond repair at this point.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 12:57PM UTC
What you have stated is harsh, but it is indeed, the reality for those of us "of a certain age." I have a 46 year old daughter who says she is now experiencing the same thing. Several years ago, I actually had a young person tell me she "hated" working with older people, because she felt like they would be "judging" her. I kindly told her that I was not on that, or any other job to judge anyone, but to make $ to pay my bills, and hoped that she wasn't on the job to judge me (or anyone else), either. It didn't go over well....but guess what? I am still here, and she is long gone.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 1:04PM UTC
I am with you, my friend. How I see myself seems to have no connection to how I am seen. My proven skills are meaningless in this market. I guess it tracks with the way the world has operated since the pandemic exposed the cracks in our society. I am looking at training so I can be my own boss, but it is expensive and risky at my age.
AnonymousJune 18,2023 at 11:22AM UTC
i’m approaching my 30s… and I’ve got to admit I tried to work in a workplace with a bunch of young people at age 22-25 that sounded a lot like this. I hated it and had to leave because I got kind of bullied / excludes for trying to accept my older coworkers and work well alongside them. I was also bullied by the 30 year old VP who left before I did. It was exacerbated by dynamics with the President/Founder who was technically my connection into the company.
i, for one, love working with older people and can’t handle bossy 30 year olds who think they run the world but actually just suck at collaborating and being creative enough to grow things in new ways. Granted, I think my old boss has grown from that place as O said she is no longer there… I hope things go well for you
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 12:42PM UTC
Like you I am cresting on 6 months of looking, applying and networking. Tons of experience in an area that seems to be booming now .. but no luck on a full time position, yet. I've gotten some consulting work and am considering pursuing that avenue as I'm getting more bites there than actual job interviews. It is definitely taking a toll on my metal health as well, so I'm right there with you! Stay strong and take care of yourself - we can do this!
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 1:00PM UTC
Oh yes. Me too. And I have been at it for roughly 18 months. After I decided to take advice for how to remove my age from my resume, I started to get interviews, but these were for positions that honestly look ridiculous on paper in terms of wide-ranging, unfocused, and apparently insurmountable workload. And I have not had one offer, although the hiring managers have told me to "keep trying" because "with your skills, you would do very well here." My family, who I foolishly moved to be closer to after a difficult divorce, has labelled me " lazy" and "difficult" because I am not working, which has made my bad situation even worse. I had to cut them off to maintain what is left of my mental health. So, I am starting free online classes in a topic I am passionate about, have reached out to volunteer for a nonprofit, and am keeping only healthy people inside my circle, while I continue to seek employment. It's such a mess. An interview with the largest employer in my area began with them admitting the role is not well-defined, and it may get worse. And no, not even "worse before it gets better," like my trauma therapy. I have to laugh because I am just sick of crying. Good luck to all of you struggling in the trenches with me!
Sarah BurkhardtJune 18,2023 at 11:03AM UTC
Wow. I’m sorry about your family… maybe they’ll change their minds. You definitely deserve support and I understand not wanting to sell yourself short in the job market… honestly I think we have a bit of a “job role crisis” going on nowadays. Thanks for your post… from one trauma therapy client to another I get it
Sonia NayeliJune 19,2023 at 7:43PM UTC
So sorry! It takes a while for us divorced women to get through not only personally but also professionally.. what I did is just sucked it up. I need the money so I can’t be super picky. And of course still maintaining a positive attitude… but it takes a while. Prayers
Jennifer TannerJune 16,2023 at 1:04PM UTC
I have been looking for 11 months now and experienced the same thing. Hundreds of applications. I've had 20+ interviews but no offers. Plenty of ghosting, seeing the same positions I was turned down for still open 6+ months later.
There was a WSJ article in March about how many online job postings are just not even legitimately trying to be filled. I have certainly run into that problem many times. https://www.wsj.com/articles/that-plum-job-listing-may-just-be-a-ghost-3aafc794
The other problem is that employers are underpaying, and/or holding out for candidates with the exact experience they want (no less, no more). I don't know why.
Over the last year I've seen many other FGBer's job hunting say the same thing. Networking may be the best option for landing a good job -- if you have a college alumni job board, local professional association, anything like that you can leverage, def give it a shot.
Know that you're not alone and it's definitely not just you! I am absolutely constantly on the verge of having a menty b at this point because it's just one rejection after another.
VivianJune 16,2023 at 3:18PM UTC
I've been looking for 1 year, 3months and experienced the same thing you described. I'm always assuming it is because of my age (62)...reject after reject.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 6:27PM UTC
It absolutely is ageism. We women beyond 50 are not getting interviewed let alone hired.
AnonymousJune 17,2023 at 6:18PM UTC
Once I took the advice of how to remove my age from my resume, I started to get interviews. But then my age was more apparent in the interviews, and despite having the requested education, experience and skills, the offers did not come. "But keep trying," they tell me. "You'd do great here," they tell me. I feel like Charlie Brown trying to kick the football that Lucy (the job market) pulls away at the last moment. Exhausting.
AnonymousJune 17,2023 at 6:47PM UTC
I landed my last 2 jobs at age 55 and then 65, so it is not impossible by any means. In no particular order, here’s my tips:
1) Network with any and all previous coworkers you can (my prior coworker got my resume placed in the right hands through over 94 other applications and I landed that job at 55!)
2) Put the word out at your church and church family (I had 3 leads through my church members and a pastor).
3) Utilize a professional Resume writing company to include verbiage to fit screening software.
4) Eliminate irrelevant jobs that are older to appear experienced yet young(er).
5) Ensure you look professional and as tastefully youthful as possible for Zoom and in person interviews.
6) Utilize college career center and unemployment office for job opportunities.
7) Search the websites of the companies you would like to work for rather than relying on indeed.com, monster, etcetera. I found my job on the company website, applied, found a prior coworker's name on their website (she was their media relations rep), so reached out to her to see if she could get the HR team to look at my resume. They did, and I enjoyed that job for 10 years!)
8) KNOW ABOUT THE COMPANY! Read up on any and all info on their website so you are able to respond as to why you would like to work there. During my interview, the CEO asked me what I knew about their mission and their religious affiliation. I was able to respond appropriately because I had researched them beforehand. I also looked up information on the entire executive team to know a bit about them. It paid off!
Best wishes to all who are searching.... you've got this!!!
Balanced372207June 16,2023 at 11:13PM UTC
Ageism is ugly, and it's real.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 1:17PM UTC
It has been 1.6 years looking for job...such low salaries i am getting at age of 42( though I look very young)...coming from managerial level to executive level job call is very frustrating...have applied don't know to how many jobs in 1.6 years...but not a single job as per designation,company or salary is nice...it's getting very depressing n extremely low.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 1:33PM UTC
Ever since I quit my first job out of college in 2018; It has been a hard time for me to find a job in a new industry. Just like college graduates who don’t know what field nor role they want to work in; I was never advised nor motivated to look at the other options: work a part, temporary or volunteer at a charity organization, hospital or a company to get my foot in the door and start a position doing administrative work.
It was a regret of mine that I did not use my summer term from 2015-2017 to work on those three options. In addition to this; I could have done those three options after graduation; but instead of doing them; I worked my first job as a sales representative.
My position lasted for a month because my performance did not meet with the company standards and it had a lot of red flags.
I could have taken the remaining year of 2018; to work on those three options and build my skills up for a full time position.
Instead of doing that I spent the rest of the year helping out with family at home and attended networking events though my university.
To answer your question; I have so far applied to one job and was rejected, and as a career changer; I am cautious about searching for the positions I see on the job broad sites ie Indeed, Monster, Career Builder. What I do first is look for the position on those sites; then go to the actual site and see if it is legit.
My plan for the summer is to find a temporary position to work on next month until it ends; then look for full-time in September for an entry-level position healthcare industry.
AnonymousJune 17,2023 at 6:26PM UTC
Perhaps utilize your college career center as the place to assist in finding a job that fits your skill set?
After college, it took me 9 mos to land a job (where I remained for 7 years). My college provided the info for that job and I loved it. Worked FT, but then PT while I returned to school for higher education.
AnonymousJune 17,2023 at 9:40PM UTC
I have reached out to my college center about jobs and my resume. ( my degree is in Business Management a broad field). So far, I am using my Alumni group to search for jobs; but in terms of using my skill set: my technical skill level is really more beginning level ie Excel, or intermediate: Word and PowerPoint.
I found a temporary position as a Test Administrator for a company; but it doesn’t have a start; yet the end date is the 15th of September.
Monica Calzolari, MBAJune 16,2023 at 1:40PM UTC
I have been searching for 10 months although I took some breaks after a bunch of rejections...Companies and HR and horribly disorganized.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 2:05PM UTC
I have been looking for a role in my field for 1 year and 10 months. Been working in a call center just to pay bills. Usually I can land a suitable role in less than 4 months but this is a terrible market for job seekers
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 3:05PM UTC
How often have you been looking for a job? How many have you had in the past ten years? Have they all been contract jobs? It sounds like you have changed often since you said, "In previous years, I have found a job within three months max." If all or many have been contracted positions, it should be stipulated next to the dates. If next to the dates doesn't work, use "Contracted position for [primary reason for contract])" in the first bullet point. That alone will explain a short tenure. The cover letter should explain how a combination of several contracted projects has given you broad experience in your field that a long-term position in a single company couldn't. If it seems appropriate, you could also explain that it exposed you to several different corporate cultures that could help you to assimilate into a new environment quickly.
If you have had several permanent jobs and left before two years, it could appear that you have been job hopping, indicating you have problems fitting in or just following the money. This is why stipulating your contract jobs is essential.
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 4:39PM UTC
It is a very tough market!!!
AnonymousJune 16,2023 at 4:44PM UTC
It can take some time. It took me 18 months to find a new role. It's a very tough job market, particularly with the economy. Hang in there and network as much as you can.
Diane McDevittJune 16,2023 at 6:06PM UTC
I'm in month 12 and working a contract position to pay bills while I keep searching. It's hard but not impossible to keep afloat.
AnonymousJune 17,2023 at 1:25AM UTC
I have been reading all the replies. I’m in the same boat. I know ageism is a thing. More than ageism it’s just a whole new ball game since COVID. I know people of all ages that are having the same hard time. It is just crazy weird out there.
Jennifer Frederick-LathemJune 17,2023 at 9:21PM UTC
i’m 38 years old and it’s ridiculous I mean I get temp jobs and it's only last a day. They say oh yeah it’s gonna be full-time and then the last three full months and that doesn’t happen. I have been ghosted. Make promises not been delivered since October of last year and it’s really frustrating because I’m wondering what’s wrong.I have been ghosted. Make promises not been delivered since October of last year and it’s really frustrating because I’m wondering what’s wrong. so I’m doing gig jobs to try and not get too behind in the bills Until I can find a more permanent job.
AnonymousJune 17,2023 at 10:11PM UTC
3 months
Crystal ReyesJune 18,2023 at 2:20PM UTC
It took me 10 months.
AnonymousJune 19,2023 at 7:21PM UTC
Same here. Mid 30s with experience. I have been applying for 3 months and only 1 interview. I taylor the cover and resume to the job. I live in Texas and feel this is unexpected for my area…. still have to keep trying.
Ida McCartyJune 19,2023 at 11:15PM UTC
It took me 15 months to land my current job. Did not take the position originally seeking, because I was told a hiring freeze was imminent. Company just laid off 1200 people. Moral is low, and angst is high. Hang in there!
Lynda ReinarzJune 21,2023 at 3:38AM UTC
My job search has taken 9.5 months now. I’m 52 so I think that has a LOT to do with it. I’ve made it 5-6 rounds on a few different jobs and done projects, panel interviews, cognitive and personal evaluations and ended up with no offer. On a couple of occasions, the company decided not to even hire for the role. Honestly, I’m exhausted. If anyone has any suggestions, I’m all ears.
AnonymousJune 21,2023 at 6:11PM UTC
I applied to the same company for the last year (11 opptys) - revised the hell out of my resume to get in front of a hiring manager (dropped the dates off my education, shortened my resume by about 4 employers - which would have dated me even more). Finally get that interview - interviewed over 2.5 weeks with 8 different people. These people chew you up and spit you right the hell out. After the 'sorry it's not you 'and an offer to assist acquiring other roles in the org - AND finding those other roles - I'm ghosted. But I'm not giving up - I reached out to colleagues of the recruiters (as I could find on LinkedIn); reached out to the people I interviewed with (probably feels stalkerish) and finally --- because I truly am sick to death of being treated like ugly fruit - the Head of HR. I may not get anywhere on this ride, but I'll be damned if I don't let everyone I can, know at the organization, that when we see 'ghosts' they need to be accountable.