Planning

I recently graduated on May 4th with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and I'm trying to pivot from my 10 years in dental operations to roles in finance, operations, business analysis, or procurement. I've sent out over 300 applications since graduating, but the response has been disheartening—mostly rejections or no replies at all. I've had two interviews: one ended with me declining an offer because it didn't fit my goals, and the other reached a fifth interview where the interviewer didn't show up. To improve my chances, I've rewritten my resume to highlight my dental experience in more business-oriented terms and tailored it for each application using an ATS-friendly format. I've also been utilizing AI tools to help with wording and to identify transferable skills, but I'm concerned about making my applications sound too generic. I've been applying across a variety of sectors like finance, defense, and healthcare operations, and I've connected with recruiters on LinkedIn, though that hasn't yielded much success. I'm open to relocating and have a deadline to move by October, which adds pressure to my job search. I'm seeking advice on what types of roles I should target with my background, how to better position my experience to avoid being seen as just a dental worker, and whether my broad application strategy might be hindering my chances. I’d also like to know how others are effectively using AI in their job search without losing their personal touch. Any insights would be greatly appreciated.

I recently had an interview for a job that I was really excited about, but I feel like I completely undervalued myself during the salary negotiation. I asked them to match my current pay at $22/hr, which includes health benefits, dental, vision, and 401k. However, I later realized that the job listing had a low-end salary of $51k a year, which is significantly higher than what I proposed. The owner mentioned they would be sending me an offer by Friday, and I can't shake the feeling that I messed up. I was so stunned during the interview because they seemed to really like me, even skipping a second interview and having the owner meet me personally. Now I'm in a dilemma. I want to work for this company, but I know I should have asked for more. I’m considering mentioning that if they could offer me at least the starting salary of $51k, it would really help me with my schooling and relocating to their area. But I'm worried about souring the relationship before I even get the offer. Should I wait for the offer to come in and then negotiate, or should I bring this up before they send it? I’m feeling pretty anxious about this whole situation.

I'm currently looking for a weekend job and I'm unsure about whether to include my full-time position on my resume. I work as an engineer, but I'm applying for a part-time role as a sales associate at a clothing store. My concern is that listing my engineering job might make me seem overqualified, or that employers might think I don't really need the job since engineers typically earn good salaries. It's been 15 years since I worked in retail, so I'm worried about how to present my experience. I would appreciate any advice on how to approach this situation.

After four long months of job searching, I’m thrilled to share that I’ve landed a new marketing job! As a mid-20s Gen Z, the journey was challenging and filled with ups and downs. I submitted over 200 applications and went through more than 20 interviews and recruiter calls, facing countless rejection emails and ghosting along the way. Throughout this process, I learned a few valuable lessons. First, I found that using LinkedIn's Easy Apply feature didn’t yield much success for me. Most of my positive responses came from applications where I took the time to tailor my resume to closely match the job description. In this competitive market, companies are looking for candidates who meet almost all their requirements, and even missing one or two skills can hinder progress in the interview process. Location also played a significant role in my job search. I noticed that states like Texas, North Carolina, Arizona, and Georgia had many more opportunities for younger professionals compared to places like California, NYC, and Chicago, where competition is fierce, often with applicants boasting 10+ years of experience. I also realized that breaking into 'dream companies' or well-known brands is particularly tough for Gen Z applicants right now. While it’s not impossible, the market is challenging, and many of these companies prefer candidates with extensive experience. Another surprising takeaway was that the prestige of my college mattered less than I had been led to believe. While internships and campus involvement are beneficial, actual work experience is what companies prioritize nowadays. Even just a year of real-world experience can outweigh a lot of extracurricular activities. My biggest piece of advice for anyone in a similar situation is to apply strategically rather than emotionally. Avoid applying to jobs where you barely meet the qualifications, especially if there are already hundreds of applicants. Whenever possible, apply early and focus on roles posted within the last 72 hours. And remember to tailor your resume for each position. Most importantly, don’t lose hope. This job market is tough, but it only takes one offer to turn everything around. If anyone has questions or needs tailored advice, feel free to reach out!

It's been a week since my manager informed me that I'm getting laid off, with the cuts scheduled for early July. Despite having this advance warning, I find myself feeling numb and sad, which is surprising to me. I know I should be updating my resume and starting my job search, but I just can't seem to get motivated. I'm reaching out to see how long it took others to start looking for new opportunities after receiving similar news and if they experienced the same feelings. I'm not typically the type to sit around and feel sorry for myself, so I'm hoping to find some strategies to kick myself into motion.

I recently helped a friend who has been struggling to find a better job after being underemployed for a while. After reviewing her resume, I noticed she had an office manager position that lasted only 8 months, and she mentioned she was fired due to a loss prevention issue that she insists was not her fault. Knowing her character, I believe her, but I started to worry about the potential liability of including that position on her resume. To investigate further, I called the previous employer as if I were a hiring manager looking for employment verification. The response I received was shocking. The person on the other end sighed heavily when I mentioned her name and responded in a negative tone. He confirmed her employment dates and title but then bluntly stated, 'God no, absolutely not' when I asked if she was eligible for rehire. He went on to share the loss prevention story and more negative comments about her without me even prompting him. Now, I'm faced with a dilemma. This position is one of the strongest on her resume, but the negative feedback from her previous employer could be a significant obstacle in her job search. I’m considering whether to remove this position entirely from her resume to avoid potential issues, even though it would create an employment gap. I’m looking for advice on how to handle this situation.

I am currently searching for a job in Milwaukee, specifically near Brady Street and the east side downtown area. I have experience in dishwashing and cashiering, so I'm hoping to find something in those roles as soon as possible. Any leads or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

I recently started my job search and quickly realized that networking is far more effective than just sending out resumes. It's been a tough transition, especially since I didn't choose to leave my last role at a tech company. I had to mentally prepare for the uncertainty and emotional churn that comes with this kind of change. I took some time to reassess what I really want in my next position before diving into job applications. I've noticed that applying blindly to jobs is a losing game right now. The number of applications per job opening has skyrocketed, and many postings are ghost jobs that were never going to be filled. Instead of just grinding away at applications, I've decided to focus on my network. Referrals account for about a third of actual hires, so I'm spending more time reaching out to former colleagues and mentors. I also started using AI tools not to send out mass applications, but to research companies that are growing and see if I have any connections there. I’ve been writing genuine LinkedIn recommendations for people I haven’t spoken to in a while, which has helped me reconnect with my network without any immediate ask. Additionally, I’m building a support circle with others who are going through similar challenges. It’s been great to share insights and strategies. Overall, I feel more focused and hopeful about my job search now.

Today, I found myself pondering the value of asking for job referrals from people I barely know. I've always relied on cold applications to land roles, but lately, it seems like recruiters are favoring candidates with LinkedIn connections. So, I finally decided to create an account and dive into the networking world. As I navigated my connections, I noticed several 2nd degree contacts at companies I'm interested in. While I recognize their names, I’ve only interacted with them a couple of times over the years, which makes the idea of asking for a referral feel awkward. I’ve come across advice suggesting that reaching out for a referral after some small talk can work, but it feels strange to ask someone to vouch for me when we don’t have a solid relationship. I’ve had success with anonymous platforms like Blind, where the culture is different, but LinkedIn feels more personal. I’m curious if anyone else has had success with these loose connections on LinkedIn. Is it worth the risk to reach out?

I am currently feeling desperate in my job search. I've been using the same resume for a while now, but it just doesn't seem to be getting me anywhere. Despite having certifications and a college degree, I feel like I'm stuck. I've even started to think about lying on my resume, which feels terrible, but my situation is getting critical. I have a child to support, and my husband is growing increasingly frustrated with my unemployment. I'm considering making some drastic changes to my resume, like trimming it down and focusing on the most relevant experiences, but I'm not sure if that will be enough. I really need to turn things around quickly.

I'm excited to start a new job on Monday! I'll be traveling to another state to pick up my equipment and get my badge. However, I'm in a tight spot financially with only $3 in my bank account right now. I haven't filed for unemployment in the past two weeks, but I took care of that today and should hopefully receive my final payment by Thursday. Despite the challenges, I'm feeling optimistic about this new opportunity!

After spending 18 years in the tech industry, I recently experienced something I never thought I would: being ghosted late in the hiring process. I had gone through multiple interviews and was feeling optimistic about the opportunity, but then I just stopped hearing back from them. It's incredibly frustrating and disheartening. I'm now trying to figure out how to move on from this experience and not let it affect my job search. I appreciate any advice on how to handle this situation and keep my spirits up.

I've been working at my current job for 2 years, and I absolutely love it. However, the daily 1.5-hour commute (3 hours round-trip) has become increasingly challenging, especially with my commitments as a graduate student, which also requires a long commute on weekends. Recently, due to structural changes at work, I found myself considering a job closer to home. I interviewed for an internal role at a different location, and to my surprise, they offered me the position right away. The new commute would only be 30 minutes one way, and it would also bring me closer to my parents. While I'm excited about the opportunity, I'm feeling bittersweet about leaving a job I truly enjoy and the great relationships I've built with my coworkers. I worry about whether I'll fit in with the new team and if I'll excel in the new role. I know I can apply my existing skills, but change is always a bit daunting. I value work-life balance, and with my packed schedule, the long commute just isn't sustainable anymore. I'm curious if anyone else has made a similar move from a job they loved to one closer to home and how they felt about it afterward.

I'm currently navigating a tricky situation with the U.S. company where I'm interning on a J1 visa in digital marketing. My internship ends in August, and I need to return to Argentina. I'm trying to negotiate a transition to continue working with them as a remote independent contractor. I've built a strong relationship with the company and have performed well, so there's genuine interest in keeping me on. However, I'm facing administrative hurdles. They claim they don't know how to pay me once I'm back in Argentina, citing complications with paperwork. Yet, I learned that another intern from Germany was offered a remote position without issues, which has left me confused. I suspect it might be a lack of information or fear of bureaucracy specific to my office. I'm planning to present them with a proposal that outlines practical solutions to ease their concerns. I'm seeking advice on transitioning from a J1 to independent contractor status, recommended payment platforms, and whether completing Form W-8BEN would suffice for their tax compliance. Any insights or experiences shared would be incredibly helpful as I try to move this process forward.

I received an interview invite from a company back in May for a position I was really excited about. It was scheduled for Thursday, but as the day approached, they texted me to say they had to reschedule due to technical issues. I was understanding and rescheduled for the following Wednesday, hoping everything would be sorted out by then. However, today I got an email saying they needed to reschedule again, this time without providing a reason. The earliest they could offer me was next Wednesday again, but at a later time. I'm starting to feel like this company might not want me to work for them at all. If that's the case, I wish they would just be upfront about it so I wouldn't keep holding onto false hope. Has anyone else experienced something similar? Sorry for venting.

I'm 18 and heading into my senior year of high school, but I'm having a tough time finding a summer job. I live in a rural area with limited options, and I haven't gotten my driver's license yet, which makes it hard to travel far. I've asked around, but most places are either fully staffed or not hiring at all. I did get offered a lifeguard position, but I'm not a strong swimmer and only swim once a year, so that's not a great fit for me. The other job opportunities are over 25 minutes away, and I don't have anyone to drive me since both my parents are working. I really want to secure a summer job to enhance my college resume, and I'm feeling stressed about not having one. I'm looking for any tips or advice on how to navigate this situation, especially since there are mostly small businesses around and no major supermarkets or big stores nearby.

I recently faced a tough decision between two job offers. About three weeks ago, I interviewed for a server position at an entertainment venue. The interview went well, but I had to wait around 40 minutes for the manager to see me, which made me wonder about their organization. After two weeks of silence, I assumed I was rejected and started applying elsewhere. I came across a hiring sign at a grocery store, asked about it, and was interviewed on the spot. They moved quickly, sending me a job offer within three days. Just as I was about to accept the grocery store position, the server job offer from the venue came through. I consulted friends for their opinions, and many pointed out that the grocery store showed more respect for my time. I don't want to dismiss the venue's offer outright, as I know the delay might not reflect the manager's capabilities, but it raises concerns about the company's overall organization. I aspire to work in the serving industry long-term, so I’m torn between taking the grocery job now and potentially missing out on the server opportunity later.

I’m currently navigating a frustrating situation with my unemployment claim in Pennsylvania. I've been on the phone with Unemployment for over a week trying to resolve an issue. I initially filed a claim because I anticipated getting a summer job, as my current employer's contract ends on June 30. Unfortunately, the part-time job I secured didn’t pan out; I only attended a two-hour orientation and never got paid for it. The job details I received were misleading compared to what was in my offer letter, which led me to quit. Now, my claim is stuck with an examiner, and I’ve been disqualified. I was informed that I need to earn around $1,700 to 'purge' or resolve this issue. I still have a few days left at my full-time job, working in a college kitchen, but it’s only sporadic work now that summer is here. I also do some daily labor jobs, but those are inconsistent and don’t pay well. Initially, I was told that I could combine my earnings from both jobs as long as my kitchen job is the last one I work, and I can prove it with my paystub. However, during my last call, the representative said I needed to make the $1,700 solely from my daily labor job, which didn’t make sense to me. I’m really confused and upset because I’m trying to pick up extra work to support myself until I find a full-time position. I just want clarity on what I can do to resolve this claim issue.

This week marked my first experience with layoffs, and it hit me hard. I’ve always read about layoffs happening to others, but I never expected to be affected, especially since I believed my role was secure. On Monday morning, I woke up to a series of meeting cancellations and an invite to a meeting that included only my manager and an HR representative. At that moment, I knew something was off. After a tense 30 minutes, I was handed a scripted letter informing me that I was being let go due to organizational restructuring. It was a brutal day for many of us, with around 300 employees affected. My last day is in two weeks, and while I’ll have health coverage for three months and a severance package, it all feels surreal. I had dedicated myself as the primary technician for my modality, often working 12-hour shifts in remote locations, ensuring that vital medical equipment was repaired. I was well-respected by my customers and had even been selected for advanced training by national support teams. Yet, all of that seemed irrelevant in the face of corporate decisions. In the shock of the moment, I quickly reached out to my network. I managed to secure a long interview with one company later that afternoon, followed by a thorough interview and technical assessment with a competitor the next day. I’m currently in the second round of interviews with several companies, but the emotional impact of this layoff still weighs heavily on me. This experience has been a stark reminder not to take job security for granted. I wish everyone in similar situations the best of luck.

I recently introduced AI workflows at my startup, which I was really excited about as I believed it would enhance our productivity and efficiency. However, just a month after implementing these changes, I was unexpectedly laid off. It was a tough blow, especially after putting in so much effort to innovate and drive the company forward. Now, I'm navigating the job market, looking for new opportunities where I can leverage my skills in AI and workflow optimization.