Hello everyone,
Today, I want to share a personal story about a decision I made 4 months ago—to leave a job without another lined up. It was the first time I've done this in my 6-year career. The reasons behind this decision are complex and something I'll dive into in a future post, but I want to focus today on the aftermath of that decision and what it has taught me.
The last few months have been some of the toughest in my life. Despite thinking I'd quickly find a new role, I faced sleepless nights, panic attacks, and a job market that was far less welcoming than anticipated. Here are some insights I've gathered from my journey, which I hope can help others in similar situations:
Stop chasing recruiters. While recruiters play a vital role in the hiring process, they are not the final decision-makers. If you're finding it hard to get responses, it might be more beneficial to seek out direct referrals from employees within the company.
Rethink the 'Easy Apply' strategy on LinkedIn. It may seem like a quick and efficient way to send out applications, but it hasn't been effective for me—and I've heard similar stories from others. Instead, focus your efforts on company career sites and networking for referrals.
Prioritize your mental health. The anxiety and stress of job hunting can be overwhelming. It’s important to take moments to breathe, engage in activities that bring you joy, and remember that your health is paramount.
Companies are not your family. Even after you've received a job offer, keep your options open and your job search active until your first day at the new job. I've experienced offer retractions firsthand, and having other prospects can be crucial.
Through this period of uncertainty, I've learned resilience and the importance of staying true to oneself. To anyone out there currently job hunting: hang in there. You are not alone, and your resilience in these times will shape you for the better.
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and any tips you might have as well.
🌟 Stay strong,
Mansi