Finding a job; why is it so hard?

Finding a job is a job in itself!

As a Talent Acquisition Manager, Recruiter, and Career Coach, I would like to share some tips to assist anyone seeking a new job or a career change.

Let’s face it: job searching can be frustrating. Submitting countless applications without receiving responses—or only getting those "thank you, but no thanks" replies—can be disheartening, especially when you urgently need a job.

To navigate this challenging process, it’s essential to have a game plan. Finding a job is a job in itself, and many others are competing for the same positions! Therefore, we must prepare ourselves to excel in interviews, beginning with a solid resume.

**Resume:**

Is your resume up to date and does it effectively showcase your professional history? Consider having a friend, colleague, or mentor review it; they can help identify areas that may need clarification and suggest important details you might have overlooked. Take inventory of your experiences, skills, and projects, and rank them according to their impact on your career. This evaluation will help you determine what aspects you want to pursue more actively.

Reflect on what you enjoyed, what challenged you, and what you learned from your projects. The goal of this exercise is to craft a compelling narrative. A strong resume can help you secure an interview, but you must also articulate your professional story clearly. This ability enables interviewers to envision you within their organization. My own journey as a Recruiter started unexpectedly. I applied for one role, and during my interview, the CEO recognized an opportunity to reshape the position in line with my skills and experience. I didn’t enter the interview anticipating a new role, but my preparation and clear communication helped them see me in a more significant position. This opportunity opened a new chapter in my career, which I have thoroughly enjoyed. Remember: many opportunities await you, so begin by clarifying your strengths and preparing to create those opportunities!

**Interviews:**

Not every job will be ideal for you, so approach each interview with a mindset of learning about the opportunity. Sometimes, due to urgency, we might accept dead-end or short-lived positions. If you're in this situation, consider finding a part-time job that allows you the time to seek a better fit. It’s essential to find an opportunity that enhances your quality of life rather than detracting from it.

Do your research on the company you are interviewing with. Compare your experiences with the role you’ve applied for and prepare points that demonstrate how your background aligns with the job requirements. Be ready to answer questions with detailed examples and remember to ask thoughtful questions of your interviewer. Practice for your interview, and keep in mind that the interview is also your chance to evaluate whether the job aligns with your qualifications and career goals. As mentioned earlier, a great interview can significantly impact your career, so do your homework and be prepared!

**Communicating After the Interview:**

Let’s get back into the habit of sending thank-you notes after interviews. Even if you receive a rejection, this practice leaves a positive impression of you as a professional.

However, let’s be honest: responding to a rejection email can be challenging. If you feel frustrated or hurt, it's important to take a moment before replying. It's perfectly fine to have those feelings, but try not to react impulsively. Once you feel ready to respond, do so professionally. As a Recruiter, I’ve sent many rejection letters, and there have been times when I reconnected with candidates who didn’t get the job to discuss new opportunities. Remember, rejections do not always signify a lack of qualifications; sometimes the process is highly competitive. Responding professionally to a rejection letter can open up doors for future opportunities. Eileen Gonzalez, CPCC