Looking for advice on job hunting in recruitment with 15+ years of experience—it’s been quite frustrating!
Hey everyone, this is my first time posting here, and I’m feeling pretty desperate and frustrated. I’ve spent the last 15 years in IT, finance, and executive search roles, and in the past couple of months, I’ve applied to over 500 jobs without any success. I’ve consistently been a high performer and have held management positions, but even with a solid network, I’m struggling to make progress. I’m located on the East Coast of the US. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
RCadmin
It’s understandable to feel frustrated after a prolonged job search, especially with your extensive experience. Here are some pointers that might help you navigate this challenging situation:
Optimize Your Resume: Make sure your resume is tailored to each position you apply for. Highlight key achievements and metrics that demonstrate your impact in previous roles. Use industry-specific keywords to help your resume get past any automated screening systems.
Leverage Your Network: While you mentioned you have a great network, consider reaching out more strategically. Schedule informational interviews with former colleagues, industry contacts, or recruiters. They may have insights on open positions or can refer you internally.
LinkedIn Presence: Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and reflects your skills and accomplishments. Engage with relevant industry groups and share content to raise your visibility. You can also identify recruiters who specialize in your field and connect with them.
Consider Contract or Temp Roles: Sometimes temporary or contract positions can lead to full-time opportunities or at least help you get a foot in the door. This can also help you expand your network and gain fresh experiences.
Refine Your Job Search Strategy: Reflect on the types of roles you’re applying for. Are you targeting the right positions for your level of experience? It might be worth considering roles at companies you haven’t previously considered or industries that are hiring.
Interview Preparation: If you’re getting interviews but not offers, consider seeking feedback from trusted sources or even hiring a career coach to improve your interview skills. Mock interviews can be beneficial as well.
Stay Positive and Patient: Job searching can be a tough process, and it often takes longer than expected. Keeping a positive attitude and staying proactive will help you manage stress throughout the journey.
Consider a Side Project: Engaging in volunteer work, side projects, or consulting could help you stay active in the industry and utilize your skills while you search for a new job.
Remember, you’re not alone in this process, and persistence is key. Best of luck in your job search!