Feeling Lost, losing focus

Question

Shortly before the pandemic hit I was laid off(unrelated) I loved what I did but was let go due to internal manager changes. Throughout 2019 I applied to other companies like my last (Out of Home Advertising)  got really no where and then shifted my focus towards nonprofit early 2020. I was having some informational interviews in that area and it seemed interesting enough to look into. Due to the pandemic my search seems to be on hold companies both in the Adv and Nonprofit sector are on a hiring freeze. I have reached out to and leveraged several relationships in my network and nothing is happening right now. All is on a hold.  I am now looking into healthcare (tele health companies) as it may be a growing field but I feel like I am just now throwing darts seeing what stick without any real focus. I truly believe that I may be still unemployed through early next year, at the earliest. How can I regain focus, traction  and momentum during these times ? I dont see any real jobs out there and those that I do see, my background may not match ?

Nancy C · Answer

This is certainly a frustrating feeling - as a fellow job seeker, I understand where you're coming from! My best advice is to focus on networking right now; make a list of 25 people who are in your target roles, companies or industries, and each day, choose 2-3 to engage with by liking/commenting on posts on social, sharing a pertinent article, etc.  You'll start building relationships intentionally, and when they have new roles open up, you'll be on their radar already. This can help you feel productive in setting your future self up for success.

Cara Houser · Answer

Hi Elyse, One thought would be to offer your services on a consulting basis. This could be more palatable to potential clients/companies since it would be for a limited duration and time commitment, and things are so uncertain for everyone right now. It can also be a valuable opportunity for you and the company to get to know one another and for you to demonstrate the value you bring, so that when things turn around, you'll already have made some connections. Think about the types of work you most enjoy and are most skilled at, and check with your network regarding places potentially in need of support in those areas. Best of luck to you.

Eugenia Silva · Answer

Hi Elyse - job hunting is grueling. I've been in your position and felt that same sense of hopelessness. In addition to echoing the advice of the commenters here, may I suggest researching recruiting/staffing agencies to work with? These agencies are able to leverage their relationships with client organizations in order to launch their candidates' profiles to the top of hiring managers' piles. Recruiters can also provide valuable advise about your resume, interview preparation, and give you insight into company culture. While temporary roles tend to be more plentiful at this agencies, they often get full time roles. You can also refine your search by looking for agencies that work in the specific industries you are interested in - advertising, telemedicine, non-profit. A word of caution - recruiters manage multiple candidates so checking in with them frequently (even daily), being responsive, and tracking the opportunities you are presented for via these recruiters are all critical to your success.

Dena K · Answer

Hi Elyse,  I know it is frustrating and even scary to think of long term unemployment, especially in our current climate.  However, this might be a great opportunity for you to really hone in on what you want to do beyond just earning a living.  
My recommendation is:  Keep throwing those darts - continue networking, continue applying, and continue researching.  But in parallel start building your life purpose matrix.  I am not sure if you ever heard of the Ikigai, which is a Japanese term that stands for 'Reason of Being', it is an amazing tool to help you uncover the intersection between what you love, your mission and purpose with the practicalities of earning a living through a profession that is relevant and leverages your strengths.  What this exercise does is help you narrow down your job search to a pool of positions that meet your criteria.  From there, you can 1) create a clear target plan; the plan should include all the different types of roles that would allow you to live your ikigai and the different names they go by to facilitate your search as well as companies/industries.  2) Ensure your resume showcases the value you have provided for previous employers (quantified if at all possible) and has the right keywords for the positions you are targeting. 3) Apply for jobs even if you don't meet 100% of the job requirements (it's best to be at 85% or higher) - there are some exceptions when an employer mentions (must have).  4) Craft a clear message on your value proposition that you will share with potential recruiters/hiring managers; many hiring managers hire for attitude before experience so if you are targeting a role that is different from a previous one lead with your purpose and passion.  Hope this helps.  Best of luck!

Feeling Lost, losing focus

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