Applied to a Job

I recently applied for a Databricks Architect position and completed an initial AI assessment. To my surprise, I received an automated request asking me to submit my professional references through a third-party platform called SkillSurvey, without having spoken to a single person at the company—no recruiter, no hiring manager, nothing. I felt it was unreasonable to ask candidates to tap into their network's goodwill before the company had even invested time in a brief conversation. So, I decided to email them and withdraw my application, explaining my reasons for doing so. Has anyone else experienced this trend where companies request references so early in the hiring process? Is this becoming the new norm for tech roles?

I was laid off over a year ago after spending more than 7 years at my previous company, which went through three rounds of layoffs. It took me a long time to find a new job, and after a year of searching, I finally accepted an offer and started working there two months ago. Despite feeling settled, I continued applying elsewhere. Today, I received another job offer that comes with a 33% salary increase. I feel a bit guilty since my current coworkers have been really nice and supportive, but ultimately, the financial aspect is important. I'm hoping this new position will be manageable. It's true what they say: when it rains, it pours. I'm keeping my head up!

I recently had a first-round interview for an administrative position at a prestigious university. During the interview, the recruiter asked me about my minimum salary expectations. I responded by referencing the pay range listed for the position, which was between $19 and $29 per hour, suggesting I was thinking around the midpoint. To my surprise, the recruiter then suggested a specific figure of $25, which caught me off guard. I ended up agreeing to that figure, but I didn't feel comfortable with it, especially since my current salary is $50k. The interview wasn't the most awkward I've experienced, but it definitely wasn't what I expected. To make things more complicated, I will be speaking with the same recruiter again next week for another similar position at the same university. I also have another interview lined up within the same university, but in a different department. This position has a pay range of $19 to $22 per hour, with the targeted hiring pay being on the lower end. Given my experience in administrative roles, I know I bring a lot to the table, but I’m feeling uncertain about how to negotiate my salary, especially since I haven't worked in higher education before. I'm trying to figure out the best way to approach this without underselling myself.

I'm currently a junior studying electrical engineering and I'm really focused on securing a summer internship, ideally in the defense or aerospace sectors. I've applied to around 200 positions at various defense companies, but unfortunately, I haven't landed a single interview yet. I attended my school's career fair and connected with several recruiters who seemed positive about my prospects, but after that, I haven't heard anything back. I know that these fields are competitive, especially since many positions require at least a master's degree and most engineers have PhDs. I'm starting to wonder if it's too early to gauge my chances or if I need to adjust my approach. Any advice on how to improve my chances would be greatly appreciated!

Applied at The Detroit News for Sports Editor

Applied at Burger King for temporary position

I've been on a challenging job search journey lately, having made it to the final round of interviews for 8 different positions, but unfortunately, I haven't received any offers yet. The last interview felt particularly promising; they conducted reference checks, gave me a tour of the office, and I even met some executives. I thought I was so close to landing the role, but it slipped away. Throughout this process, I've been juggling a full-time job at a warehouse, which has required me to call in sick frequently to attend interviews. My managers have been supportive, recognizing my dedication, but I worry they might eventually grow weary of my absences. To enhance my prospects, I earned a certification during this time, but it has come at a personal cost. I haven't spent time with my friends in about three months, and I feel like I'm drifting away from them. Right now, I'm feeling pretty defeated and close to giving up, but there's a part of me that urges me to keep trying, just one more time. I'm curious if anyone else has faced a similar situation and how you managed to stay motivated.

I recently completed a background check for a job I applied for, and I haven't heard back from the company since then. I'm feeling a bit anxious about the situation and wondering what my next steps should be. Should I follow up with the HR department or wait a little longer? Any advice on how to handle this would be greatly appreciated!

I recently started applying for jobs after being a stay-at-home mom, and I was concerned about passing a drug test. I had posted earlier asking for advice, but I faced a lot of judgment for my situation. I had taken a small hit the morning of my inquiry, and people were very rude about it. I was just trying to figure out where I stood with passing a drug test since I know I might be tested during the hiring process. After trying a different brand of test, I saw a clearer second line, which gives me hope that I might pass. I stopped smoking about six weeks ago, but I still feel anxious about the results. I want to get a job to support myself and my daughter, especially as I plan to leave my husband. I know it might take time before I actually have to take a test for a job, but I feel more optimistic now that I might be able to pass if I get called in for an interview soon. Any advice on how to navigate this situation would be greatly appreciated.

I recently found myself in a tricky situation at my job in the social services field. I applied for a full-time evening position after working a Casual Contract since January, where I usually get about 16-24 hours a week. I was struggling to pay my bills and had been encouraged by my colleagues and supervisor to apply for the evening role after the previous staff was let go. However, just before my scheduled interview, my boss informed me that I wouldn’t be getting the evening position and instead suggested I take a full-time overnight role, which I cannot manage long-term due to personal reasons and future plans to go back to school. Now I'm torn between withdrawing my application before the interview or going through with it and then declining the overnight offer if it comes. I know that the agency tends to favor seniority in hiring, so it feels like a gamble either way. I’m leaning towards attending the interview to gather more information, but I’m unsure if that’s the right move.

I recently applied for a position at a nursing home and was contacted for an interview. However, I discovered that this particular location has been dealing with a bed bug infestation for over 20 years. After reading the reviews, I found alarming reports of patients being bitten and the infestation spreading throughout the building, even into the kitchen. While I am eager to find work, I draw the line at bed bugs. I can't even imagine how to professionally ask if they still have this issue during the interview. The most recent review mentioning bed bugs was from two years ago, but I found reports dating back to 2015. It's a tough situation because I want to help, but I also have to consider my own well-being.

I received an email about a job I applied for back in July, but I found it odd that the dates mentioned in the email had already passed by the time I received it. I haven't heard back from them since I applied, which makes me skeptical about the legitimacy of this opportunity. The English proficiency site they referenced seems legitimate, and the person who contacted me appears to be real, but I can't shake the feeling that something is off. I'm particularly concerned because I've read that they can't dictate hours for a 1099 contractor, yet that's what they're doing. I'm considering reaching out to the person who emailed me to ask more questions and gauge the situation. Has anyone else experienced something similar? What do you think?

I recently faced a challenging situation when I was let go from my job at a security firm due to a complaint from a coworker. I showed her a photo I took from a security camera, which, while not explicitly allowed, was something others had done without issue. Unfortunately, she escalated the matter to management, and my boss, despite recognizing my strong performance and wanting to keep me, had no choice but to terminate my employment. I left on good terms, with a glowing review from my boss, which I appreciate. Now, I'm applying for my dream job in a professional field that involves handling sensitive information, and I'm feeling anxious about how to address my termination. I’ve already noted on my application that my employment ended and that I’m seeking to further my career. My interview is scheduled for tomorrow, and I'm unsure if I should proactively disclose my termination or wait to see if they ask about it. I know there will be a thorough background check if I progress in the hiring process, so I’m torn about the best approach. I want to be honest but also highlight my qualifications and passion for this new role.

I'm currently in a tough spot with my job search. I work part-time at a desk job, but I'm looking for a full-time position due to financial pressures. I have dysautonomia and spine degeneration, which limits my ability to be on my feet for long periods or do any manual lifting. I've been applying for remote jobs, but most seem to be scams, and I've had little luck with office positions as well. When I request accommodations, I'm often met with denial or pressure to perform tasks that I simply can't manage. I'm considering taking a certification course to enhance my skills and improve my chances, but I'm feeling quite discouraged. Any advice or recommendations for jobs that might be suitable for someone in my situation would be greatly appreciated.

I recently experienced back-to-back rejections during my job search for a co-op position through my university. Yesterday, I had an online interview with three other candidates, and unfortunately, I didn't make the cut. Today, I had an in-person interview with around ten other applicants for the same role, and again, I was rejected. This was my first time interviewing, and I was really hoping to secure a position. The frustrating part is that I can't get any feedback on my performance since all communication goes through the university, and they don't provide any insights. It's disheartening, but I'm trying to stay positive and remember that rejection is a common part of the process.

I recently went through multiple interviews with a company that seemed to go really well. The HR rep was quick to follow up after each interview with positive feedback and to schedule the next one. Last Wednesday, I received a 'pre-hire' email, which was exciting. It requested my references and outlined the next steps, including a drug test and education verification after a written offer. They also sent me their benefits package and holiday schedule, which felt like a good sign. I completed my references by Thursday and Friday of last week. Now, it's been a week since then, and I'm starting to feel anxious about the wait. I’m hopeful based on the positive signs, but I’m trying to gauge the likelihood of receiving an offer and how long this process typically takes. Any insights would be appreciated!

I recently completed my PhD in Chemical Biology in Germany and I'm currently facing challenges in my job search. I've applied for over 100 positions ranging from product manager to project manager, scientific coordinator, VC internships, and consulting roles, but I've only had a few unsuccessful interviews. The situation feels quite dire, and I'm even considering applying for a job at Subway as a last resort. Before I take that step, I want to ensure that my CV is not the issue. I have two versions of my CV: one tailored for scientific roles and another for strategic positions like VC or consulting. I'm reaching out for advice on whether my CV might be hindering my chances in this tough job market. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated, as I'm running low on hope.

I've been unemployed for 15 months after being forced to resign from my role as Manager in the CTO Office back in June 2025 due to management changes. Initially, my compensation was ₹16 LPA, but after a few months, the Managing Director removed the variable component of my salary, impacting my earnings despite my performance. Eventually, I was laid off and promised one month’s severance pay, which I never received, along with my last salary for June 2025. After relocating back to my parents' home from Ahmedabad, I started applying for jobs, hoping to rebuild my career. However, life took a turn when my father suffered a major cardiac arrest, requiring significant financial support for his treatment. I was juggling hospital visits and job applications, which was mentally exhausting. Thankfully, my father's health improved, allowing me to focus more on my job search. Despite my efforts—applying to numerous positions, seeking referrals, and revamping my resume and LinkedIn profile—I’ve only landed fewer than 10 interviews in this time. I've faced rejections for reasons like my career gap and lack of experience with larger corporations. In some instances, I completed assignments for potential employers but never received feedback. The growing employment gap is daunting, and I'm feeling the pressure. I’m not looking for shortcuts or a senior position handed to me; I’m ready to start over and prove myself. My strength lies in solving business problems with technology, and I’m eager to find a role that allows me to bridge the gap between business and tech. If anyone knows of job openings, recruiters, or has advice on improving my profile, I would greatly appreciate your help. I'm ready to get back to work and support my family again.

I graduated 14 months ago and have been struggling to find full-time work ever since. Currently, I work part-time for two different organizations; one is in the heritage sector, but I only get about two days of work a month on average. The other role is a remote admin position, but the pay is quite low. While I can manage to pay my bills, it's a tight squeeze. Since graduating, I've been actively searching for a full-time role in heritage, but despite having a handful of interviews, I've been unsuccessful each time. By January, I broadened my job search to include any available positions, applying to everything I could find. I’ve lost count, but I know I’ve submitted over 500 applications, and it's really taking a toll on my mental health. I believe my CV is decent, showcasing good experience, yet I haven’t landed a job. I feel so close to giving up; my current situation is draining, and I have no savings to fall back on. I want to work full-time, but I'm feeling stuck. My CV highlights four years of administration experience, a year in a museum, and volunteering with heritage properties. I tailor my CV for different fields, focusing on customer service or heritage as needed. I also write cover letters and have been told I interview well, but the feedback usually indicates I was lovely but lacked the experience compared to other candidates. I'm really unsure about what I'm missing in my job search. Any advice on how to secure full-time employment would be greatly appreciated.

I received a job offer for a part-time warehouse position at General Motors. I'm feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety, especially since I'm scared of heights and I'm unsure how much I might have to go up in the warehouse. I'm also curious about what the job will actually entail. Like many others, I applied to several positions and was surprised to get an offer. I have 24 hours to decide whether to accept it or not.