What To Do When Your Job Search Isn’t Working
This post was originally published in 2023, but it has been updated in January 2026.
Is your job search just not working? It’s probably not you.
Most job seekers are finding the job search lasting longer and longer. In fact, many job seekers are facing long term unemployment, typically defined as six months or more of unemployment.
Over the past couple of years, I have watched an increasingly large number of clients find themselves with fewer posted job opportunities, longer interviewing processes, as well as the experience of being a finalist over and over again - without landing an offer.
For the majority of my practice as a career consultant, these results have been rare.
Now? They’re normal.
If you’re job search isn’t working - or you’re about to enter the job search and want to be as prepared as possible - I thought it might be helpful to share how I am encouraging our clients to prepare for this market.
Clarity, alignment, and specificity is your friend
I’ve been describing this job market as un-imaginitive.
In general, people are getting traction for roles that are lateral to a slight bump up.
With so many people out of work, it’s important to remember there are probably lots of qualified people in the applicant pool, so to be a stand out candidate, you really need to be a strong fit for the role. (Learn more about qualifications and why they are important here!)
So what does this mean for you?
You need to have clear target roles and a resume (or other relevant asset!) that clearly communicates your qualifications for that specific job.
If you have been more of a generalist, or if the job search has always been easy for you and you haven’t learned how to use your resume and apply to jobs effectively, this is absolutely something you’ll want to learn now!
You’ll likely want to have templates (here’s a post on that, too!). It will make things easier!
Assess your obstacles, needs, and challenges
A challenging market does not pose the same threat to everyone.
Part of your job is to determine your specific obstacles, needs, and challenges. This will look different for people!
What is your financial runway? Did you receive a generous severance or do you have other sources of income?
Has your industry been disproportionately impacted by layoffs?
Have you not gotten any interviews?
Do you need a full time benefited job or are you open to contract, part time or freelance opportunities?
This will not be a one sized fits all strategy - and there’s no one right way to move forward.
The paths you pursue will probably reflect your resources and risk tolerance.
Change up your job search strategies.
Applying for jobs online is an important strategy.
In fact, for our clients, it’s the most common way that people generate interviews and offers.
But it’s not your only option!
If the idea of “networking” sends you reeling, definitely check out our resources on developing a professional development eco-system.
Take pride in your process
This is way easier said than done but hear me out on this.
If you’re really looking for fulfillment, you don’t have to wait for your next job. You can volunteer, paint, write and find ways to challenge yourself now.
Or if you want to take the next step in your industry, start a blog or host your own meet up to demonstrate leadership.
If you want to leave the corporate world for something more creative or purpose driven, find ways to do that now.
There are so many ways you can keep learning and growing and providing value to the world.
If there is something you want to be doing, try to find a way to do it now, even if it’s in a small way.
Take care of yourself
I truly believe that this is one of the most important things that you can do while on a long job search: take care of yourself.
This means not spending every free moment scouring the internet for job postings.
This job market is demoralizing. There’s no doubt about it.
Taking a break is really about giving yourself permission to do other things that you enjoy, that restore your energy, and that relax you. As I often say to clients, we can’t just drain the tank - we have to fill it up, as well!
This time off can really help you produce better quality work, make better decisions, and energize you to leverage your connections.
Resources for your job search
Of course, if you’re struggling, we’re here for you! Hope on our mailing list to hear about our upcoming virtual events - or check out our Revive Sessions to jumpstart your strategic search today.