I officially have $0, cannot land an interview.
So after 1000 job applications, no job interviews, and bills piling up I’m officially broke. I don’t know what to do and I’ve tried everything. Referral don’t work, resume ATS keyword matching doesn’t work, networking on LinkedIn doesn’t work. Ive been applying for over a year while also trying to keep busy getting certs and with self employment but it’s not enough to live. It’ll be a few weeks before I lose internet access so I’m trying to use this time for one last push. What can I do to get out of this situation?
Edit: For reference I have a Business degree, 10 YOE with Fortune 500 companies, and multiple certs ranging from technology to project management. My LinkedIn is filled in with all of this information as well.
My resume is listed on several temp agency and career sites and I apply wherever I meet or exceed 80% of the job requirements.
Jobadvisor:
This is an incredibly tough situation, and, understandably, you're feeling overwhelmed. It sounds like you've put in a tremendous amount of effort. Let's break down the potential issues and explore some strategies for this final push before your internet access is gone.
Analyzing the Potential Issues (Even with Your Strong Background):
- Market Conditions: The job market can be incredibly competitive, and even experienced professionals face challenges. Recent layoffs and economic uncertainty might be contributing factors.
- Resume/Application Issues (Despite ATS Optimization):
- While you've focused on keywords, the presentation and impact of your experience are crucial. Are your accomplishments quantified? Do they tell a compelling story?
- Is your resume tailored to each specific job, even slightly? Generic resumes, even with keywords, can be easily dismissed.
- Are there any gaps in your employment history that might be raising red flags?
- Are you using a modern resume format?
- Interviewing Skills (If You Were Getting Interviews): Though you stated you are not getting interviews, it is still worth noting that interviewing skills can be a large factor.
- Networking Issues:
- Simply connecting on LinkedIn isn't enough. Are you actively engaging in meaningful conversations?
- Are you targeting the right people (e.g., hiring managers, recruiters in your industry)?
- Are you following up with people you have connected with?
- Job Targeting:
- Are you casting too wide a net? Sometimes, focusing on a specific niche or industry can be more effective.
- Are you applying for roles that are truly aligned with your skills and experience?
- Are you only applying for roles at Fortune 500 companies? Consider smaller companies.
- Salary Expectations: In your current situation, it is best to be flexible with salary expectations.
- Location: Is your location limiting your opportunities? Are you open to remote work or relocation?
- Temp Agencies: Although you have listed your resume with temp agencies, some temp agencies are better than others. It is worth researching the agencies in your area.
Actionable Steps for Your Final Push:
- Resume and Cover Letter Overhaul:
- Quantify Achievements: Use numbers and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "Increased sales by 15%," "Managed projects with budgets exceeding $X").
- Tailor Each Application: Customize your resume and cover letter for each specific job, highlighting the skills and experience most relevant to the role.
- Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs (e.g., "Led," "Developed," "Implemented").
- Storytelling: Craft a compelling narrative that showcases your value proposition.
- Get Feedback: Ask trusted colleagues, mentors, or career coaches to review your resume and provide feedback.
- Modern Format: Ensure your resume is visually appealing and easy to read.
- LinkedIn Optimization and Networking:
- Engage Actively: Comment on posts, share relevant content, and participate in industry groups.
- Targeted Outreach: Identify hiring managers and recruiters in your field and send personalized connection requests.
- Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in your industry and ask for informational interviews to learn more about their experiences and potential opportunities.
- Follow Up: Always follow up after connecting with someone.
- Targeted Job Search:
- Niche Down: Identify a specific industry or role that aligns with your skills and experience.
- Expand Your Search: Consider smaller companies, startups, and non-profit organizations.
- Explore Remote Work: Expand your search to include remote opportunities.
- Consider Contract or Temp Roles: These can provide immediate income and lead to permanent positions.
- Immediate Financial Relief:
- Food Banks and Assistance Programs: Seek out local food banks and social service agencies for immediate assistance.
- Negotiate Bills: Contact your creditors and explain your situation. Negotiate payment plans or temporary relief.
- Sell Unnecessary Items: Sell any items you no longer need to generate immediate cash.
- Reach out to friends and family: Even if it is difficult, reach out to trusted friends and family for temporary financial assistance.
- Temp Agencies:
- Research and find the best agencies in your area.
- Follow up with the temp agencies.
- Be willing to take any work that is offered.
- Use all available resources:
- Use your local library for internet access and printing.
- Contact your local workforce development center.
Important Considerations:
- Mental Health: This level of stress can take a toll on your mental health. Prioritize self-care, even in small ways.
- Persistence: Do not give up. Even in the face of rejection, keep applying and networking.
- Be flexible: Be flexible with your salary expectations and job roles.
I understand this is a very difficult time. I hope this information is helpful.
So after 1000 job applications, no job interviews, and bills piling up I’m officially broke. I don’t know what to do and I’ve tried everything. Referral don’t work, resume ATS keyword matching doesn’t work, networking on LinkedIn doesn’t work. Ive been applying for over a year while also trying to keep busy getting certs and with self employment but it’s not enough to live. It’ll be a few weeks before I lose internet access so I’m trying to use this time for one last push. What can I do to get out of this situation?
Edit: For reference I have a Business degree, 10 YOE with Fortune 500 companies, and multiple certs ranging from technology to project management. My LinkedIn is filled in with all of this information as well.
My resume is listed on several temp agency and career sites and I apply wherever I meet or exceed 80% of the job requirements.
Jobadvisor:
This is an incredibly tough situation, and, understandably, you're feeling overwhelmed. It sounds like you've put in a tremendous amount of effort. Let's break down the potential issues and explore some strategies for this final push before your internet access is gone.
Analyzing the Potential Issues (Even with Your Strong Background):
- Market Conditions: The job market can be incredibly competitive, and even experienced professionals face challenges. Recent layoffs and economic uncertainty might be contributing factors.
- Resume/Application Issues (Despite ATS Optimization):
- While you've focused on keywords, the presentation and impact of your experience are crucial. Are your accomplishments quantified? Do they tell a compelling story?
- Is your resume tailored to each specific job, even slightly? Generic resumes, even with keywords, can be easily dismissed.
- Are there any gaps in your employment history that might be raising red flags?
- Are you using a modern resume format?
- Interviewing Skills (If You Were Getting Interviews): Though you stated you are not getting interviews, it is still worth noting that interviewing skills can be a large factor.
- Networking Issues:
- Simply connecting on LinkedIn isn't enough. Are you actively engaging in meaningful conversations?
- Are you targeting the right people (e.g., hiring managers, recruiters in your industry)?
- Are you following up with people you have connected with?
- Job Targeting:
- Are you casting too wide a net? Sometimes, focusing on a specific niche or industry can be more effective.
- Are you applying for roles that are truly aligned with your skills and experience?
- Are you only applying for roles at Fortune 500 companies? Consider smaller companies.
- Salary Expectations: In your current situation, it is best to be flexible with salary expectations.
- Location: Is your location limiting your opportunities? Are you open to remote work or relocation?
- Temp Agencies: Although you have listed your resume with temp agencies, some temp agencies are better than others. It is worth researching the agencies in your area.
Actionable Steps for Your Final Push:
- Resume and Cover Letter Overhaul:
- Quantify Achievements: Use numbers and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "Increased sales by 15%," "Managed projects with budgets exceeding $X").
- Tailor Each Application: Customize your resume and cover letter for each specific job, highlighting the skills and experience most relevant to the role.
- Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs (e.g., "Led," "Developed," "Implemented").
- Storytelling: Craft a compelling narrative that showcases your value proposition.
- Get Feedback: Ask trusted colleagues, mentors, or career coaches to review your resume and provide feedback.
- Modern Format: Ensure your resume is visually appealing and easy to read.
- LinkedIn Optimization and Networking:
- Engage Actively: Comment on posts, share relevant content, and participate in industry groups.
- Targeted Outreach: Identify hiring managers and recruiters in your field and send personalized connection requests.
- Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in your industry and ask for informational interviews to learn more about their experiences and potential opportunities.
- Follow Up: Always follow up after connecting with someone.
- Targeted Job Search:
- Niche Down: Identify a specific industry or role that aligns with your skills and experience.
- Expand Your Search: Consider smaller companies, startups, and non-profit organizations.
- Explore Remote Work: Expand your search to include remote opportunities.
- Consider Contract or Temp Roles: These can provide immediate income and lead to permanent positions.
- Immediate Financial Relief:
- Food Banks and Assistance Programs: Seek out local food banks and social service agencies for immediate assistance.
- Negotiate Bills: Contact your creditors and explain your situation. Negotiate payment plans or temporary relief.
- Sell Unnecessary Items: Sell any items you no longer need to generate immediate cash.
- Reach out to friends and family: Even if it is difficult, reach out to trusted friends and family for temporary financial assistance.
- Temp Agencies:
- Research and find the best agencies in your area.
- Follow up with the temp agencies.
- Be willing to take any work that is offered.
- Use all available resources:
- Use your local library for internet access and printing.
- Contact your local workforce development center.
Important Considerations:
- Mental Health: This level of stress can take a toll on your mental health. Prioritize self-care, even in small ways.
- Persistence: Do not give up. Even in the face of rejection, keep applying and networking.
- Be flexible: Be flexible with your salary expectations and job roles.
I understand this is a very difficult time. I hope this information is helpful.