DISCUSSIONS

Fairies!

Laura Mulvaney image

Laura Mulvaney

Welcome to Fairygodboss!

We’re the largest online career community helping women achieve their career goals. Gain access to articles, jobs, events, and a supportive network of women and allies. Membership is free, always.

Fairies!

On January 5, I got laid off after over a decade of service in a mass lay off of 3k people (in IT). It was heartbreaking, frustrating, stressful, and honestly a VERY scary. But yesterday, I got an offer for my top job choice. If you’re in the middle of a job search right now, I just want to say: I see you, I’ve been there, and you will get through this.

I won’t sugarcoat it…the job market is rough. I sent out tons of applications, went through rejection after rejection, and had moments where I questioned everything. I cried…ALOT..But here’s what really helped me:

  • Lean on your network. Seriously. So many of my best leads and opportunities came from connections, not just job boards. People want to help…you just have to put yourself out there no matter how humbling or awkward you feel. (I’m awkward as a human in general, so it was super uncomfortable. ?
  • Stay persistent. Some days will be discouraging, but that doesn’t mean you won’t land something amazing. The right role is out there, and you just have to keep going. I did not do the eight hours a day looking for a job, “looking for a job is your full-time job,” after a while because I was getting so upset and it was really affecting my mental health. I dedicated time to target choice companies and use my network. The “spray and pray” method wasn’t working for me at all… So it’s really important if something isn’t working to change your strategy!
  • Know your worth. When fear creeps in, it’s tempting to settle. But don’t be afraid to negotiate, advocate for yourself, and hold out for a job that feels right.

If you’re searching right now…hang in there. Keep pushing forward, lean on your people, and know that something great is coming. If I can help in any way, reach out—I’m happy to be part of your network too!

Why women love us:

  • Daily articles on career topics
  • Jobs at companies dedicated to hiring more women
  • Advice and support from an authentic community
  • Events that help you level up in your career
  • Free membership, always

Like

19 comments

Share

Share your insight

Join an authentic community that helps women support each other at work. Share your professional experience or ask for advice — you can even post anonymously.

19 Comments

Join the conversation
  1. Pamela Holmes

    I was let go from my last position on 2/14 - 3/4 I started a new position and am sooo much happier

  2. Amy Miller, Psy.D. - Career Coach

    This simple post is full of the best advice! Congrats on your new job! People are so discouraged right now.

  3. Laura Mulvaney

    Thank you so so much. It’s definitely tough out there…just remember to know you are all rock stars and you will get the job for you. Keep pushing!

  4. Anonymous

    3 months to finding a great job is so inspiring! I will use your tips.

  5. Laura Mulvaney

    Good luck!!!!!! Sending positive vibes!

  6. Susan Abel

    I was laid off at the beginning of January as well. I was lucky because my CEO really liked me and she gave me a month and a half before letting me go and also let me interview during work hours. And she also introduced me to several connections on LinkedIn, which I also appreciated. Unfortunately, I had 25 to 30 interviews and nothing panned out. I even had recruiters telling me I needed to start looking for hybrid roles instead of fully remote just to find more opportunities. I ended up finally finding a job but it was definitely tough. It took me almost 2 months to find something that was within my pay range. That being said, I highly encourage those applying to use careerbuilder and indeed because they don’t get as much traffic as LinkedIn and if you do use LinkedIn, make sure your filtering out only the newest jobs so you can get your résumé in there before the masses. It’s rough out there, but there are jobs. You just have to find them! Good luck!

  7. LINDA E GARDNER

    Thank you...for the reminder! I know a lot of us are out there is similar situations. Stay true to yourself and keep the faith, you will prevail!

  8. Zeecil Kimmel

    Thank you for your excellent post. It is great to see positive movement in the job market. And I love the encouragement. I too have been looking for a new position for a while and there have been times I wanted to cry but then I come across a post like this and it reminds me to keep my eyes on the prize.

  9. Laura Mulvaney

    You got this girl ❤️ I believe in you!

  10. Allyson Doherty

    Thanks for sharing - my will is flagging.

  11. Laura Mulvaney

    Hang in there girl. You got this! Give yourself grace! ❤️ I believe in you.

  12. Anonymous

    Great post! Congratulations in your new role. Thank you for reminding people that it is all about networking and building new connections from them and not blanketing a lot of resumes along with everyone else via job boards.

  13. Laura Mulvaney

    Thank you so much. Here for you if you need me! ❤️

  14. Susan Wangui M

    Thank you for sharing your experience. I can truly relate as I’ve been spending so much time job searching, applying to countless openings only to feel like my applications disappear to a black hole. It’s exhausting and discouraging to say the least. Reading your post is reassuring and encouraging to know that you made it through and found a new opportunity despite the challenges you went through. You’ve given me hope to keep pushing forward but strategically. Congratulations on your new job !!

  15. Susan Wangui M

    I would be grateful if you can be part of my network.

  16. Nanette Winder

    Congratulations!! Amazing feedback and guidance!

  17. Laura Mulvaney

    ❤️ hang in there. Your opportunity is around the corner.

  18. Laura Mulvaney

    You got this girl! ❤️

  19. Markesia Ward

    Congratulations on you’re new role!!! Thank you for the advice!

Browse recent posts

Plan construction projects with the Concrete Calculator, a practical online tool for estimating material quantities, calculating concrete requirements, managing costs, and simplifying building work.
Hiii everyone!
I'm. Current looking for remote jobs
Your trusted partner for a cleaner, healthier home in Los Angeles, California. At Quick Clean Carpet Care, we've been providing top-notch carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, pet accident treatment, hard floor cleaning, rug cleaning, window cleaning, and house washing services for over 9 years. Our team of experts uses eco-friendly solutions and state-of-the-art equipment to leave your home sparkling clean and germ-free. From stain removal to deep cleaning, we've got you covered. Serving Los Angeles and surrounding areas, we're committed to delivering exceptional customer service and unparalleled results. Call us today to schedule your appointment and experience the Quick Clean difference!
Your trusted partner for a cleaner, healthier home in Los Angeles, California. At Quick Clean Carpet Care, we've been providing top-notch carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, pet accident treatment, hard floor cleaning, rug cleaning, window cleaning, and house washing services for over 9 years. Our team of experts uses eco-friendly solutions and state-of-the-art equipment to leave your home sparkling clean and germ-free. From stain removal to deep cleaning, we've got you covered. Serving Los Angeles and surrounding areas, we're committed to delivering exceptional customer service and unparalleled results. Call us today to schedule your appointment and experience the Quick Clean difference!
What Makes SPJ Vedatam Gurgaon Worth Exploring?
See more
Fairygodboss VIP
Achieve your career goals.
Be part of the largest online career community for women to find jobs, advice, and support — for free.
Fairygodboss members