There’s no sugarcoating the fact that the current job market is challenging. With companies hiring more cautiously and more candidates competing for jobs, it’s easy for those returning to the workforce to feel discouraged. If you’ve applied for dozens of roles (or more!) and haven’t heard anything back, you are not alone.
This moment demands resilience. By this, we don’t mean you should pretend things aren’t hard. We mean you can acknowledge the challenge but still show up anyways. As you tackle your job search, take time to breath, step away when needed, and consider the following strategies for building and maintaining resilience on your path back to the workforce.
- Connect with community. Talk to others who are also searching. Knowing you’re not alone can be grounding and motivating. If you’re looking for a community of returners who “get it,” check out Path Forward’s online community.
- Celebrate small wins. Submitted three applications? Got a response? Had a good conversation? These steps all matter and deserve to be acknowledged. Recognizing progress, whether big or small, helps build momentum and gives you something positive to focus on.
- Remember your value. Remember that your time away was valuable for developing important skills. You bring in-demand strengths and have something meaningful to offer, even in a competitive market. Read this for examples.
Overall, staying resilient in a tough job market is about pacing yourself and protecting your energy. Which is why it is important to create a job search routine that works for you. This doesn’t have to be rigid or perfect, but it should be intentional. Here’s how to start:
Treat your job search like the priority it is.
If you’ve been the go-to person for caregiving and managing the household, it might feel uncomfortable to put your needs first. This feeling might be amplified if your job search isn’t bringing in immediate income. But shifting your mindset is essential: your career matters. The time and energy you put into your job search now will pay off in the long run. Let your family know that this isn’t just about finding a job. It is about building a future!
Get support so you can make time.
Many caregivers hesitate to spend money or ask for help when they aren’t earning money. But think of any support you can get, whether paid or free, as an investment in your future income. If hiring help isn’t feasible, think outside the box. Could you trade care shifts with a neighbor or ask a friend or relative for a few hours a week? Carving out consistent time, even in small chunks, is key.
Use the time you have strategically.
You don’t need to spend hours on job boards to make progress. Use your time wisely by reaching out to old colleagues, mentors, or even acquaintances in your field. Research companies you’re interested in and check their careers pages regularly. Customize your resume and cover letter for each role so that every application you send out is targeted and meaningful. A focused job search is far more effective (and less exhausting) than a scattered one.
And remember, the current job market may be tough, but so are you!