Next move for job search?

Anonymous

December 5,2022 at 8:24PM UTC

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Next move for job search?

I've been looking for a new job for almost 7 months and not sure what my best next move is. My unemployment is going to run out in 2 weeks and the stress is piled on heavy. I have been interviewing steadily since I became unemployed, have made it through to be a final candidate on a couple of jobs and have been ghosted 3 times. I have worked with a number of headhunters and recruiting agencies, have had informational interviews and leaned into my network with emails, coffee, texts to stay top of mind. I even pivoted and started applying to part-time and administrative roles to get something to get some income coming in, but literally no job offers and MANY rejection emails.

I think my two challenges have been 1)I have 2 toddlers so have been focusing on remote positions, but opened up to hybrid and 2) my experience is a niche area (music), but I have many transferrable skills and experience I can bring over to other jobs which I highlight depending on the job description. I've utilized FlexJobs, Virtual Vocations, Remotive, LinkedIn, Indeed, etc. - literally every job search platform, and I really feel lost on what to do next. Any suggestions?

Or job openings for a hard-working mom of two who loves operational efficiency? Thanks so much!

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Peggie Arvidson * Career Consultant | Adoptee Advocate | RecruiterDecember 5,2022 at 9:51PM UTC
First, I'm sorry it's been so stressful.
Next, I think you're on to the challenge - just read an article today on LinkedIn that only 15% of job openings (across the board/no matter the role) are remote but 50% of applicants want remote-
and you're seeing what happens there. Most companies can go much longer than most individuals without a role filled.
and - when you say "I have 2 toddlers and have been focusing on remote" that is a red flag and honestly why more companies are locking down on remote/hybrid - because - a full-time jog is full-time - meaning toddlers would be expected to have another caregiver during your working hours. And some companies have their legal teams draft contracts to that end - i.e., no distractions at home you wouldn't have at the office (and yah, I know- t here's always distractions at work - the water cooler, the coffee room, the annoying chatterbox, the guy with all the sneezes, but I digress)
So while I'm pretty sure you wouldn't tell anyone in an interview that the reason you want remote is because you have kids at home, - for me - it gives me pause. Maybe folks are gathering that you're not necessarily interested in the work so much as a paycheck (AND again - I get it - this makes no sense because would any of us work if we didn't need a paycheck?)
And if you're applying for roles outside of your "norm" be sure you're tailoring your resume to the role you apply to - your current resume may be hurting you.
So, now it may be time to get clear on the must haves - everything from cash you need in the paycheck to the way you want to feel at work.
Then really narrow your search to one or two companies or industries.
And then target.
When you aim for everything you rarely get anything worthwhile.
So re-focus your resume on the roles you're applying to - and be sure to speak to specific RESULTS you get - that's what the transferable part is - what are the results you bring to the organization? Every recruiter and hiring manager wants you to tell her WHY this job at this time? And how can you help us make money or save money.
Good luck!
AnonymousDecember 6,2022 at 7:31PM UTC
Having 2 toddlers is a red flag??? Wow, that seems discriminatory.
Peggie Arvidson * Career Consultant | Adoptee Advocate | RecruiterDecember 8,2022 at 12:02AM UTC
I should have been more clear - you can have 10 toddlers or none - frankly, it's none of my business (nor that of your potential employer). However when a candidate VOLUNTEERS, "I have 2 kids and I want to work at home so I can care for them" THAT is a red flag.
Women (and men) pre-pandemic, were somehow making other arrangements to care for their toddlers when they went to work - and they took time off for appointments/school events etc.
Some companies are very family-focused - and don't count PTO for events like the above.
EVERY company needs to make a profit, in order to pay the bills - including insurance, salaries and other benefits for ALL employees. Unless they have a benefit that pays for childcare (and some great companies do) they are NOT paying an employee to stay home, care for their children and fit the job in.
It >IS< illigal for anyone to ask about your marital status, age, or childcare program (or if you have children for that matter) during an interview or really at any point. However, if a candidate tells me that this is what they want the remote job for, it is my responsibility to record that information - and the odds are that the person who doesn't volunteer that information is going to get the job.
Whether we like it or not, businesses are in it for money (and frankly that's why we work) and I know the system is not fair for everyone and there are tons of inconsistencies and tons of people who are shady in the business world - so --
I was try to help the OP and encourage her to NEVER share that she has two toddlers during the interview process - and certainly not as a REASON for wanting to work at home (hybrid or fully remote).
That way, what she does when she has the job - as long as she's delivering on what the company hired her to do, no one really cares about what else she's doing at home.
I hope that clarifies my statement.
Cara HouserDecember 5,2022 at 10:50PM UTC
I read recently on Linkedin that 85% of jobs are filled through networking. That means that the best use of our time when looking to expand our realm of possibilities is to connect with others in a curious and generous way. I'm continually amazed at how successful this approach has been for my coaching clients (and me personally)!
See if you can practice your skills at this, just 10 minutes a week - share an interesting article with someone, ask them about a part of their journey that intrigues you, ask for their perspective on an issue of shared interest.
All the best to you :)
Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/new-survey-reveals-85-all-jobs-filled-via-networking-lou-adler/
AnonymousDecember 5,2022 at 11:04PM UTC
Sending positive vibes your way! I'm 6th months into the same situation so I understand your angst. As others mentioned, utilizing your network helps. In addition, I've found that after applying for positions on Indeed or LinkedIn, if it gives you the option, make a personalized pitch or introduction to the job poster. That has led to informational interviews and advancing in the process. I've been ghosted many times and whenever I have the opportunity to have a conversation, it expands my network and opens doors. Wishing you all the best and don't give up!
SheilaDecember 6,2022 at 12:18AM UTC
New in the group. Hello
AnonymousDecember 6,2022 at 2:25AM UTC
The end of the year is extremely tough. Most companies have frozen hiring or cut back on available open jobs, people are winding down for the year, budgeting for next year and taking time off for tge holidays.
So network where ever possible and understand that the slowdown is most like timing right now. Prepare to re-engage for 2023.