Can’t land a job!
Feeling exceedingly defeated this morning. Got yet another rejection, which they weren’t even going to tell me until I followed up. I’ve applied for hundreds of jobs over the last past three years. Didn’t make it through the ATS on many (rejection sent too soon after submitting to have been seen by anyone). Regular rejections on many others. Absolutely no response on TOO many. And then the most jarring are the ones I’ve interviewed for but don’t get. Some of the interviews just don’t go well. I didn’t prepare enough or prepare for the right questions or the vibe was just off. Too many times though, I prepare well, practice with others, etc, but when I get in the actual interview, I clam up. That then can come off as either unprepared or too rehearsed or too wound up. This has happened too many times. I’ve done mock interviews with family and friends, as well as professionals, but no matter how well I do in those, I cannot transfer that same energy and ease into interviews. I’ve had a number of good interview opportunities for positions that I were really interested in like this last one, but I just cannot land the job! I don’t know what to do.
Anonymous
08/26/24 at 8:02PM UTC
Hi everyone,
Original poster here. Thank you to all of you who commented. I hope everyone who commented here years ago is in a better position now! Personally, I didn't get a new opportunity until February 2022, and I've now been in that role for 2.5 years. I'm ready to transition again and going through some of the same feelings, but this time around, I'm more optimistic. I hope you are, too, if you're in a similar position!
Heather Morrison, PCM, CDMP
Senior Program Manager
209
12/14/20 at 5:18PM UTC
It's frustrating and I'm in a similar boat but look at it this way, at least you are getting interviews. Many of us aren't even getting that.
When it comes to interviewing skills, there are a ton of great resources out there that can help you prepare and give great guidance on how to research, ask the right questions etc. One of my favorites that has helped me over the years is the book "What Color is Your Parachute" which IMHO, I think everyone who is job hunting should get a copy of. If you happen to be on social media I suggest following Liz Ryan - she gives a ton of great tips and pointers as well. She also has a podcast if that's up your alley. The best tip I've gotten from Liz (albeit it's still frustrating at times) is don't ever look at an interview as a failed one, but as an opportunity to practice for when the right job comes along for you.
Lastly, if you have a friend that can help you with mock interviews that too can be helpful when it comes to nerves.
Good luck and hope all of the advice from the folks in this thread is helful.
Clarice JenkinsSenior Accountant II in DC/Maryland
101
12/11/20 at 9:58PM UTC
I feel the same way as the person who wrote about applying for jobs and getting rejections right after another one. I've applied so many job posting and have received a few interviews and then a second one to only come to the end they've picked someone else. I also second guess myself as if I'm doing something wrong.
Janice PetersHeath and Fitness Aficionado
322
12/11/20 at 3:13PM UTC
Your comparisons are spot on, It is all about relationships. There are times that some of those relationships we hope for are not meant to be in the end!
Rebeca EvantashStrategic integrated marketing leader
225
12/10/20 at 2:21PM UTC
I wanted to say that I'm in a similar boat. Honestly, I think a lot of my choking is coming from desperation. I have a hard time not marrying every job I interview for or apply to (I did this in dating too). I'm going to look into some of the advice given above and am also going to continue to research and practice. Know you're not alone, and while it may not be our dream jobs, we will get something.
Paulla FetzekTeacher, Lighting Expert, 35+ Yr Office Pro
3.17k
12/10/20 at 1:26PM UTC
I'm so very sorry for your struggles and frustration. I admire that you've kept going despite all that you've faced. FGB posted about an excellent program that you may find beneficial. Details of it are here: https://fairygodboss.com/community-link/ABK20OV_r/fairygodboss-job-search-bootcamp-application While it's geared toward helping those who lost a job during this pandemic, you may still benefit.
Anonymous
12/10/20 at 1:13PM UTC
I am in the same boat. It sounds like you are doing all the right things, so make sure you are taking care of yourself when you feel down. I have also found it helpful to meditate or do another activity in the moments immediately prior to an interview to help with my nerves and would recommend that to anyone searching right now. Wishing you all the best!
Silvana SusiProject Manager
24
12/11/20 at 8PM UTC
I agree with this recommendation. I also get very nervous before an interview. I drink a chamomile tea and try to watch something that makes me laugh. I have been recommended to stand up straight in a superman position for few minutes before the interview which helps somehow increase your confidence. I am also trying to take some pressure out of the interview and see each one as a step that is bringing me closer to land a job. An opportunity to improve and leave a good impression, even if I don't know the answers to a question. Celebrate your successes. The fact that you are getting interviews is a good thing. Keep practicing, preferably with a career coach or someone you don't know well (e.g.: a friend of a friend)! Don't give up. You will make it!
Chrissy C.Talent Engager and Connector
79
12/08/20 at 10:38PM UTC
Don't get discouraged! I'm currently in the same boat where at times it feels like an endless cycle that can lead to job search fatigue. The struggle is real! As difficult as it can get when you don't get the job you thought you were a shoe in for, maybe it really wasn't the right opportunity for you and there's something better out there. Typically, January is the time most companies have a general idea of what their financials look like for the calendar year and then open up more opportunities. So in the meantime, continue to network and build relationships because the more people who hear your story, then there is more opportunity for them to help you out. You are not alone but definitely don't let the negativity of not landing the job you want affect your search for the job that's meant to be yours!
KelliHelps senior-level women make career changes
1.48k
12/08/20 at 5:30PM UTC
Do you think you are applying to and interviewing for the "right" role or any role that comes up at this point? I find people spend SO much time on positions that just aren't a fit (meaning it isn't something that will really be satisfying or fulfilling to them) and that comes across in the job search process. I recommend taking a step back and really trying to understand what it is you want in a job, what will make you feel purposeful and significant and WHY. And then look for jobs that fill those and really get you excited.
User deleted comment on 12/17/20 at 9:09AM UTC
KelliHelps senior-level women make career changes
1.48k
12/17/20 at 8:55PM UTC
If you know what you want to be doing try to apply for the jobs that at least start to get you there. So, they might not be your dream job but they at least move you in that direction. I'm happy to help if you want to talk offline. Feel free to message me.
Ann BurkeEducator, Writer, Facilitator, Learner.
126
12/08/20 at 4:59PM UTC
"We are all in this together." I'm with @Carmelita on this one. I've been there, interviewing is hard work, and as much as you prepare, it's hard to know exactly what to expect when you get into the interview. Jen Slagle recently posted here that finding a new job is a marathon, which has also been my experience. Thanks for sharing here, keep connecting, and one thing you might think about, if you haven't already, is getting clear on your values and what you need in a job. In interviews, I've found myself trying to please everyone else and show how I would be a good fit for the employer. That's certainly part of it, but I need to know that the job will be a good fit for me too. Getting clear on my values and showing how that job I'm interviewing for will align with those values has helped me to boost my confidence during the interview process.
