Job hunting reflections amidst #techlayoffs2023

I know that for many, the job search can be overwhelming and frustrating, especially during these times of economic uncertainty (and have you heard about the cost of living crisis!) What's helped me is remembering to keep perspective and that there can be a lot to learn with rejection.

Perspective:

Unplanned unemployement raises all types of emotions - fear, anxiety, stress, sadness, self-doubt to name a few. I found in those moments of 'black holing' to remember, that for the vast majority of those laid off, it was not personal and that the tech industry is going through a thing. That despite being laid off I have my health, as do my immediate family. My basic needs (food, shelter) are met on a daily basis and I feel a strong sense of safety in my life.

I'm not living in a state of fear of poverty or (state sponsored) violence, which as a child of refugees is not something I take for granted. There are many in this world who live with these fears daily.

You also don't have to scroll down far to see posts from people who were laid off and who were pregnant, on family leave, or who have serious health matters that require private insurance in America, and who are now left to figure life out, before they can even consider work. Or posts from folks who are in their present country on a employer sponsored visa and who are left scrambling.

Being laid off is hardly fair, and women have been particularly hard hit, but find blessings where you can, count them, and hold on to them. If you can, regardless of your circumstances, help someone out. There were two roles, one I wasn't qualified for, and another that wasn't up my alley that I passed on to peers who were also laid off and whom progressed onward. It wasn't too long ago 'we were in this together,' ala covid-era, so please do support one another however you can.

Rejection

Rejection is part and parcel of applying for jobs. Some rejection you expect, (hello random 'Easy apply' for role that you spent 30 seconds looking at) and other NOs come as a surprise.

When possible get feedback. Even if you may not be in the mental space to process it straight away, you'll have it to return to at some point. I got feedback that was uncharacteristic of feedback I received in the past. I didn't wholly consume it, or give it unparalleled weight but I kept it in mind for future interviews.

As part of a different interview process that also ended in a no, I did a skills and behavior assessment that gave me very accurate insight into my thinking style and behavioral traits. The rejection was disappointing, but what I learned in the process was invaluable especially as I think about what to strengthen and what to be aware of as I join a new work culture.

While it may seem rejections feel the opposite of #techlayoffs, deeply personal, do your best NOT to take it as any searing judgement of your character or accomplishments thus far. Sometimes it is personality fit, othertimes it's skills and responsibility fit, or both, or neither - there's a huge supply in the market and there are many overqualified candidates going for roles they themselves may have been in 5 years ago.

A former colleague of mine said to me, 'rejection is redirection,' and it's personally really rung true. If I had received and or taken a job sooner than this moment now, I would not be starting an exciting new gig in the AI space, with some incrediby sharp, energising people that I can't wait to get to know.

Take care of yourself. Be persistent but give yourself a break. There are only so many times a day you can check LinkedIn, Otta, or reach out to setup a networking coffee chat. It's hard not to feel guilty if you arent hustling every second but be thoughtful about how you're spending your time.

I've seen too many posts out here saying I've applied to 100+ jobs in 3 months; that's too many. Work the network, talk to people, find out about the business growth (and headcount growth), and don't waste your time applying for something you have no interest in. If you find yourself in a process and realise the product, the people, or the overall culture isn't for you - withdraw and save everyone time. I do believe the best is yet to come for us all.