30
Seeking advice/optimism in this job market.
*partial rant included*
I'm a young professional(24) and I have been on the job market since October of 2023. I'm lucky enough to have a family that has been supporting me in ways that help me get by, but I miss working and being independent. I've sent out over 500 applications at this point and my 1.5 years experience in supply chain means seemingly nothing for applications toward roles that are almost exactly what I did for my previous job. At this point i'm applying for roles I know I'd really dislike(ex: cold-calling, insurance sales, etc) due to their lack of longevity with clients. Its to a point where I've had to consider subletting my apartment and moving back home. I know nothing is wrong with that but I thrive much more in independent situations. How is anybody getting a job lately? I'm following up with hiring managers, recruiters don't seem to want to take me on(even after my reaching out to confirm they receive my resume), and things just feel bleak. Any words of encouragement or tips on making some real progress are welcome.
Amy CollinsConsultant, mom, parent advocate
154
01/10/24 at 3:27PM UTC
Network! What does that really mean? It means finding ways to connect personally with people in your chosen field. This might be directly, or via someone who knows you and might make an introduction.
Ask for "virtual coffee" to learn more about a company. Volunteer in your community and make a great impression. Join your college alumni network. Have your elevator speech ready with a brief description of who you are and what you're looking for. Good luck!!!
Jess
73
01/09/24 at 3:08PM UTC
I want to give you a hug.
I graduated college in the middle of the recession. I was going for entry level jobs against white, men, with 20+ years experience. Because they were just looking for anything in their field.
so I never got any of those jobs. They hired for experience and maturity back then. (2008-2009)
I finally just went to graduate school.
Now, my company just laid off the whole staff, and I am back to competing for those entry level jobs. I have over a decade of experience AND a masters degree.
This time, however, I do need a solid pay because I have a kid in preschool. Companies don’t want to pay. They are hiring the younger employees who will do the job for less money.
basically. I was where you are now, and now I’m on the flip side of it.
it really REALLY sucks. But I promise, it will get better.
KathyAnn KrajcikExecutive Assistant in NJ
255
01/19/24 at 7:12PM UTC
I'm really feeling the crunch in the job market right now. I've been unemployed since August. I've been an Executive Assistant for 20+ years. I'm seeing a lot of jobs that want to pay $20/hour. I was making $103,000/year and just bought a house a year ago. I have no more severance, and unemployment runs out in four weeks. I sent out hundreds of resumes and making no progress. I am thinking about paying $10,000 for a reverse recruiting firm to market me because I am extremely frustrated, and need something outside the box.
Mary-Margaret Bond
30
01/09/24 at 5:42PM UTC
The experience:pay ratio is so bizarre now too -- many positions I've considered(and applied to, because I met all other expectations) want 7+ years experience but only paying $48k/year...
I wish you the best of luck, we will get through this! thank you very much for your encouragement and perspective
Anonymous
01/09/24 at 1:04PM UTC
Much of it is timing. The 4th quarter is the worst time of the year to get hired by far. So while you've been looking, few companies have been hiring.
Anonymous
01/09/24 at 3:55PM UTC
Absolutely. I have received 2 interview appointments in the past week after crickets November and December.
Things are opening back up. You will definitely see more engagement in the coming weeks.
Hang in there.
Mary-Margaret Bond
30
01/09/24 at 5:44PM UTC
I'm happy to hear you've had some traction! I do sense more responsiveness, whether the company is taking my application further or not, which is somewhat encouraging
Anonymous
01/09/24 at 6:20PM UTC
That is awesome news! It usually breaks open February and March and you'll see many of the job boards fill with new opportunities. My network also shows major signs of life during this time as well.
Elizabeth Stiles WestEnglish teacher, debate coach, and exam proctor
9.81k
01/09/24 at 1:36AM UTC
If you are a college graduate, definitely have the career services department check your resume and help you with practice interviews. If you are not, it might be a worthwhile investment to have your resume professionally reviewed and have an expert help you tailor it toward positions you would actually enjoy, not hate. They could also help you to practice for interviews. The job market is tough right now, so please don't give up. It may be that once someone assists you with your approach, you will get a job quickly. When I was teaching at a career college, someone who was working on a degree in software programming was getting rejection after rejection, despite having good grades and experience. When I looked at her resume, I immediately knew why. Her email address was really unprofessional (I won't say what it was in order to protect her privacy but it was more suited to an adult entertainer than a software programmer.) Once she got a new email address of just her initials and last name, she got interviews and was hired quickly.
Michelle Lady
145
01/08/24 at 11:58PM UTC
This could be a long answer but I will try to provide a quick response - cold applying to jobs is less successful in job search, to be more successful, you need to make connections in the company and network to find your next role - start to meet people in the industry by reaching out on LI and asking for an informational discussions to learn more about the company and your industry.
