I’ve been actively job searching lately and have noticed a frustrating trend. In the past, when I applied for jobs, I would typically wait for a call or email to schedule an interview, and it felt like a natural part of the process. Recently, however, it seems like every company I reach out to has adopted a different approach. I called TJ Maxx to inquire about a position, and the response was that they would call me back if I met their criteria. It’s disheartening because I feel like showing initiative by calling should be valued, yet it seems like companies are relying more on automated processes and HR screenings. I remember when it was much easier to connect directly with hiring managers, but now it feels like I’m just another application lost in a sea of candidates. It’s frustrating to think that even for a retail position, there are criteria that I need to meet before I can even have a conversation about the job.