Frustrated with the job search.

Anonymous

September 18,2023 at 9:27AM UTC

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Frustrated with the job search. For the last year I have been applying to jobs with titles I would like to transition to like CSM, audit, operations. My background is in banking for the last 9 years. I’ve worked my way up and am in a leadership role. I’ve done project management, created policies and procedures for our organization, and passed all audits with flying colors. I’m unfortunately in a very toxic work environment and am looking to pivot into something that will allow me to work from home. It seems that I’m only getting contacted for commission only (scams) positions. I have had my resume revised three times but no luck. I’ve gone directly to sites to apply for jobs but mostly nothing. I haven’t had a single interview request from a legitimate place. I know a lot of people use LinkedIn but I loathe it. I do not want to connect with any current colleagues to help authenticate my profile due to my current hostile environment. I feel like my current situation they are trying to push me out. I don’t think trying to leave would be this hard. I’ve never had issues like this finding work. I’ve reached out to previous colleagues for referrals but no luck. Does anyone have tips or anything they could share?

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AnonymousSeptember 18,2023 at 11:46AM UTC
I totally get not loving LinkedIn, but you don't have to connect to your current colleagues there. You can reach out and build a network of previous colleagues you've liked working with and others in industries you want to move into. LinkedIn is, in many cases, THE place to find jobs and build communities, and you may be holding yourself back by not at least trying it out.
AnonymousSeptember 18,2023 at 1:40PM UTC
I would try to attend your local chamber of commerce events for small business.
They usually have them quarterly and the events are attended by community business owners and leaders. Call and ask when professional individuals (nonmembers) might attend. Networking is big at these dinners and happy hours. You might be able to present an introductory presentation on uour services.
It's a very tough job market right now but if you can string together a few contacting clients you could work from home and arrange your schedule accordingly.
A 100% remote or wfh position that will pay you what your value is is a very tough ask. Especially in this market. My experience is to reach out to former companies, vendors and clients that have a history with you, know your value and have extra work you can help with.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistSeptember 19,2023 at 2:42AM UTC
Sorry you're having a difficult time. What, specifically, is it that you loathe so much about LinkedIn? You don't have to connect with your current colleagues. You don't have to connect to anyone you don't want to. How have you used LinkedIn?
By pursuing remote opportunities, you're decreasing the potential number of jobs and increasing your competition. No judgement from me on working remote, I've done it for 15 years. Where are you looking for remote jobs?
In addition, this is a tough time to transition with so many well-qualified candidates on the market.
Look at the job description and then at your resume, if you were the hiring manager, would you hire you? Are you conveying what you want to about your experience?
Sometimes you may need to take a step in between your current position and your ultimate goal position. Could you move to a similar position in a different organization and then transition into CSM, audit, operations? Many times it's easier to move internally into one of those positions than get there from the outside. You can network easier, they can see your work style, you can get recommendations from managers who know your work, etc.
AnonymousSeptember 19,2023 at 12:24PM UTC
LinkedIn is key to a job search and make sure your LinkedIn is accurate and matches your resume for dates, etc
Pat CoganSeptember 19,2023 at 12:25PM UTC
I would also consider temping in your desired transition position to get experience in the job you want.
Carol Brumer GliksmanSeptember 19,2023 at 1:09PM UTC
Through LinkedIn etc. network with your alumni association and attend industry association meetings (in person and online) to network and meet people in your field. Exchange contact info there and maybe an electronic resume.
BethBSeptember 19,2023 at 2:18PM UTC
Most people who review resumes (and ATS) are looking for people who tick their boxes. They aren’t looking at capability, they are looking for proven ability. And they may not be looking for those at a leadership level. sometimes a well-crafted cover letter can pique interest from a human. Another thought is to build the required skills. Is there a certification that would help? This is also why networking is so important. The ATS might not flag your resume, but HR would look at an employee referral. Think of LI as a giant networking tool. Connect with previous colleagues, people you know from the community, church/temple if you have one, even relatives. When you see a job listing at a company they are connected to, ask for a referral/ help. You don’t need to interact with current coworkers at all.
A percentage of listed jobs aren’t real or available. Companies may have an internal hire but still need to list it for legal compliance. Companies like those that reached out to you post fake jobs to get leads. Another thing to keep in mind is that being one of the first applicants can be an advantage. If you feel that you are being pushed out, start documenting. Write down the date, who was present or involved, what was said or done. Do it as it happens. This isn’t going to save your job, it can help with severance or a settlement.
AnonymousSeptember 19,2023 at 6:04PM UTC
I have worked in Audit in banking. They often look for people and are looking for somebody who can demonstrate risk culture, understanding of good control environment and also if you had done some quality assurance work. You don't always need to have prior audit experience. Put relevant capabilities in your summary of the resume in addition to the cover letter.
AnonymousSeptember 19,2023 at 8:18PM UTC
You need to be on linkedin. You need endorsements from those who you have worked with in the past who can provide some accolades to your skills and experience. The types of places that you want post there. Also build your network. This market is a tough one and you cannot just apply. If you have your resume posted to the outside world on indeed or other sites like that you will get all the scammers they spend lots of time culling that site in particular to find folks like you. Yes you want out but there is no magic wand to get you out if you don't do some conforming things to get you out. Good luck.