Planning

About a year ago, I faced some trouble at my previous job, which I thought was a minor issue, but it escalated to the point where my manager and HR got involved. It left me feeling disheartened, especially when they made it clear that my career aspirations were off the table. Frustrated, I started looking for new opportunities. After 6-9 months of applying to hundreds of jobs and going through numerous interviews, I finally accepted a role at a large tech company, attracted by the significant pay increase and the promise of more ownership in my work. I felt relieved and optimistic, believing it was a good move despite it not being my dream job. However, after just two months in the new position, I am regretting my decision. Each day has been filled with misery due to a lack of direction, projects that are falling apart, and a toxic environment where communication is almost nonexistent. I’ve tried to approach my boss about my concerns, but given my past experiences, I’m hesitant to be too open. I can sense that this is not a place where I will thrive. Recognizing that I need to make a change, I began job hunting again after just a week in this role. Over the past two months, I've had three interviews but no job offers yet. My niche role in the corporate training industry makes it challenging, and every rejection feels heavier than before. I’m anxious about the current job market and feel guilty for being unhappy in a position that many would consider a great opportunity. I just can’t see myself lasting here much longer.

I’m feeling completely overwhelmed and desperate for a new job. Currently, I’m working as a barista at a small chain cafe, and it’s been a struggle. I make only $5 an hour and rely heavily on tips, which barely brings my average pay to around $11 or $12 an hour if I’m lucky. I’ve been at this job since November 2025, and honestly, I can’t take it anymore. The company is terrible. I work over 35 hours a week, yet my paychecks are still small. I’m constantly asked to do more than what’s in my job description, and when I report issues to my manager, nothing gets done. For instance, we’ve had multiple fridges break down for months without repairs. To make matters worse, we’ve been dealing with a serious ant problem since summer started. Instead of addressing it, my manager told us to kill the ants with bleach, which only made things worse. I ended up inhaling a lot of bleach, triggering multiple asthma flare-ups. Recently, the AC in the store broke down, and living in Texas, it was unbearable. The temperature inside reached the high 80s, and it took three weeks for them to fix it after a customer complained. Just last week, the AC broke again, and it got up to 99 degrees inside. My manager refused to let us close the store early, and after an 8-hour shift in that heat, I felt sick and exhausted. I’m 19 and starting college soon, and I need money for classes, but I can't continue working in these conditions. I have some savings, but I’m unsure how long it’ll take to find another job. I haven’t quit yet, but I’m seriously considering it because I don’t think I can handle another shift.

I recently left my job a couple of months ago, and I had two coworkers agree to be my references. However, when I started getting job offers, one of them completely ignored my requests, while the other was very reluctant to even give me his email address. It took him 7 hours to respond, which felt very telling about his enthusiasm for my success. This experience made me realize that if someone isn't excited to support me when I have a potential job offer, I can't trust them as a reference. So, I ended up reaching out to old coworkers from jobs I had up to 7 years ago, and they were more than happy to help me out. I’ve learned to be very selective about who I choose to use as references.

I got laid off from my role in sales and talent acquisition in November 2025 due to company cost-cutting measures. After taking two months off to recover and disconnect, I jumped back into the job market. Initially, I followed the typical route—applying to jobs, tailoring my applications, and facing rejection after rejection. It was disheartening, especially since I have 15 years of experience in sales and talent acquisition, have worked remotely and internationally, and have a bilingual background, yet I couldn't even get a conversation started with potential employers. Realizing that my approach wasn't working, I decided to change my strategy. I began treating my job search like a sales process, focusing on research, referrals, and persistence. Here’s what I did: 1. I compiled a list of job boards and ATS sources to find relevant job postings consistently. 2. I checked this list daily for new opportunities. 3. I created a list of companies I admired and used AI to discover competitors I hadn't considered before. 4. I explored their career pages for roles that fit my profile and checked historical openings to gauge their hiring patterns. 5. I evaluated whether the roles were worth pursuing based on geography, compensation, and experience requirements. 6. I leveraged LinkedIn to see if anyone in my network worked at these companies. 7. If I found a connection, I reached out, even if I had only a loose acquaintance with them. 8. I initiated conversations based on shared experiences or interests before asking for a referral. 9. Once rapport was established, I inquired about their employee referral program, emphasizing the potential benefits for them. 10. I asked if they would be comfortable referring me, ensuring I framed it as a request based on my background rather than a demand. 11. If I lacked direct connections, I sought introductions through my wider network. 12. I also asked friends in sales for help in reaching out to potential contacts using their data enrichment tools. 13. I expanded my outreach methods beyond LinkedIn, utilizing email, phone, and even text to connect with multiple people at once. 14. For companies without referrals, I stepped out of my comfort zone by sending LinkedIn voice messages and quick personalized video introductions, which helped me stand out. This proactive and multifaceted approach led me to secure one full-time job and two fractional roles. It was a challenging journey, but adapting my strategy made all the difference.

I recently started my job search in Ontario, Canada, as I prepare for college classes starting on September 8. I just got my SIN and have been feeling really anxious since I’ve never had a job before. I began applying for positions two days ago, focusing on part-time work since I’m only available on weekends and Friday afternoons. I visited 10 different company chains, including grocery stores and fast food places, and applied online to about 40 companies through platforms like Indeed and MyWorkDay. My anxiety is through the roof because I have no work experience, and I’m worried about how long it will take for companies to contact me for interviews. I’m curious if it’s typical for hiring managers to process applications over the weekend and how long it usually takes for them to reach out. I know there’s no set timeline, but I’d love to hear about others' experiences. I’m also questioning if I’m being too hasty in my applications, especially since I feel like every passing day adds to my stress about finances with college approaching. Lastly, I’m wondering if sending out 30-40 applications is considered low for part-time retail and fast food jobs. I just want to gain some experience, even if it means starting at minimum wage.

I recently interviewed for a senior-level position at an arts nonprofit earlier this summer, and I need to vent about the experience. They initially advertised a salary range in the six figures, which caught my attention. However, when they made me an offer, they downgraded the position significantly and presented me with a salary that felt downright insulting. I declined the first offer, and they came back with an additional $20,000, but it still fell short of the six-figure mark. For context, my last salary was $157,000, so accepting this offer would feel like a step backward. While the role is fully remote and I've been out of work for a year (which I took for personal reasons), I'm torn about whether to accept this offer or hold out for something better. They didn't provide any real explanation for the downgrade, which adds to my frustration. I'm weighing the pros and cons: should I take this job to get back into the workforce or continue searching for a role that aligns more closely with my experience and salary expectations? It's a tough decision, and I could really use some advice.

After 12 years in various Admin and Sales entry-level roles, I've reached a point where I really want to transition away from customer-facing positions. At 35 years old, I feel desperate to climb the pay ladder and move into more substantial internal roles. My background includes positions like Sales Admin, Customer Service, Account Manager, and Sales Coordinator. While I'm open to taking a customer-facing role if it's a solid internal opportunity, my main goal is to break free from these lower-tier positions. I'm currently seeking guidance on how to pivot my career effectively. I've been exploring options and AI suggestions point towards Coordinator roles, such as Operations Coordinator, or even leaning into Data roles like Business Intelligence Coordinator. I also have some experience with coding and SQL, which I hope to leverage in this transition.

I’m currently working as an Embedded Software Test Engineer with about 2.5 years of experience, primarily in the automotive sector. My expertise includes HIL/SIL testing for CAN protocols using tools like CANalyzer and CANape, along with OTA update validation and some Python-based test automation. I also have experience with testing Android-based infotainment systems. I’m aiming to transition into a similar role at a Bay Area automotive or AV company by February 2027. The challenge I’m facing is that I’m getting interviews, and the initial recruiter screens and technical discussions seem to go well, yet I’m not receiving any offers. It’s frustrating because my qualifications align with the job requirements on paper, but I feel like I’m missing something during the interview process. I’m reaching out to those in the automotive embedded QA or systems/software test fields for insights. I’d like to know: - What distinguishes a “good” candidate from one that gets hired in these interviews? - Are there specific technical questions or topics that tend to trip candidates up, like coding challenges or protocol knowledge? Where can I practice for these? - From your experience, what are common reasons strong candidates don’t receive offers? Any advice, personal experiences, or surprising moments from your own interviews would be incredibly helpful as I prepare for my next round. Thank you!

I recently graduated about three months ago and have just started taking my CV and job search seriously. I created my first CV on August 29th, so I'm still getting the hang of it. I live in Riyadh, which is known for being an expat hub, and I've heard some pretty alarming stories about the job market here. Some people have applied to hundreds of jobs without even receiving a rejection email, which is quite daunting. I've already received a few rejection emails myself, and oddly enough, I'm somewhat relieved by that because it means I was acknowledged at least! Most of the roles I applied for were senior positions requiring five years of experience, so I understand why I didn't get them. I graduated with a degree in Physics, but I'm also exploring job opportunities outside of my field, including data-related roles and some positions in computer science. My sister suggested that I create two separate CVs: one tailored for Physics-related jobs and another for roles outside that field. Currently, my CV is a mix of both, with about 50% focused on Physics and the other 50% on my other skills. I'm wondering if it's a good idea to have two distinct CVs or if I should just stick with one. Any advice on this would be greatly appreciated!

I’m currently unemployed and feeling quite lost about my next steps. A while back, I left my full-time admin job to take on an Operations Coordinator/HR position, despite being upfront about my lack of experience. I was promised training, but I ended up having to teach myself everything. Unfortunately, I was let go after just five weeks. I received some great advice from others, including the suggestion to start a GoFundMe to help me get back on my feet. I did that, but it hasn’t gained much traction. Now, I’m still job hunting and honestly feeling pretty discouraged. I hold a Social Service Worker diploma and have several years of administrative experience. I’ve been applying for various roles like admin, social services, scheduling, reception, and coordinator positions. I’ve even started looking beyond my usual fields because I just need to find a job. However, I do face a couple of limitations. I no longer have a vehicle, and many community positions require access to one, which cuts down my options significantly. Additionally, I have endometriosis and chronic pain, so I can’t handle physically demanding jobs or those that require being on my feet all day. I’m capable of working, but I need something that is primarily sedentary or light duty. I’m not looking for sympathy or financial help; I’m genuinely seeking ideas. If you had an SSW diploma, administrative experience, and needed a job that wasn’t physically demanding while also lacking access to a vehicle, what job titles would you be considering? I’m open to pivoting away from my previous fields and just need some direction, as applying for the same types of jobs isn’t yielding results.

I recently graduated with a degree in Information Systems and have been going through the interview process for an entry-level position. Here's a timeline of my experience so far: - On July 23, I reached out to the hiring manager after seeing a post about the team, and I was encouraged to apply. - I had my first interview with the hiring manager on July 31, which went well, and I was invited to the final interview round shortly after. - The final round consisted of three interviews, and I completed two of them on August 13. - I faced some scheduling issues; I requested an alternate time for one of the interviews on August 6, but it led to confusion. The interview disappeared from the recruiter's calendar, and I had to follow up multiple times. - After some back and forth, I finally got the link to schedule my last interview on August 24, which I completed on August 27. The interviewer said I did a good job, which was encouraging. - I followed up with the recruiter on September 3 to thank her and express my continued interest in the position. Now, I'm just waiting for a decision. I'm feeling a bit anxious about the delays and the lack of communication from the recruiter. Should I be worried about this, or am I just overthinking it?

I've been unemployed for the past 3 months after graduating, and it's been tough. I previously worked part-time at a local shop, but I had to leave when the property I was staying in was sold. Finding affordable housing in my city has been a challenge, so I'm currently living with a relative, but I can't stay here much longer. I'm actively searching for a job as a developer. I have 8 months of internship experience, but I'm struggling to get interview calls. If anyone knows of any openings or could refer me for a developer role, I would be extremely grateful. I'm happy to share my resume and any other details needed. I'm also open to other types of work, including remote opportunities, even if they pay around $300 to $400 a month. I'm willing to learn and work hard to upskill alongside the job. Additionally, I need to contribute to my parents' home loan EMI, so securing a job soon is crucial for me. If you have any leads, referrals, or suggestions on where I should apply, please reach out. Any help would mean a lot to me right now.

I recently found myself in a frustrating situation at my job as a lead engineer at a tech firm. Our new Director of People and Culture has implemented 'Mandatory Game Nights' every Thursday after 6 PM, and it's been a nightmare for me. I have a wife and two young kids, and I value my time with them. Yet, I'm being labeled as not a 'team player' for wanting to leave and spend time with my family. Every Thursday, I’m expected to stay late in the breakroom playing board games like Catan while munching on terrible pizza. They call it team bonding, but it feels more like a chore that’s making me consider quitting. Last week, when I tried to leave at 6:05, my manager followed me to the elevator, concerned about my absence from the festivities. I explained my family commitments and commute, but he just gave me a disapproving look. I received a message from the culture lead asking me to host the next game night, which I found ridiculous. I'm not here to lead game sessions; I'm here to code and solve technical problems. The pressure to participate is overwhelming, and I feel like I’m in high school again, judged by my willingness to join the 'cool kids' club. I checked the employee handbook, and there’s nothing about mandatory game nights, but the social pressure is intense. If I miss another event, I worry it will negatively impact my performance review. I’m seriously considering forgetting my laptop on Thursdays to have a valid excuse to leave early. My kids are growing up fast, and I don’t want to miss out on their bedtime stories for a corporate game night. This situation is pushing me to look for a new job where my time and family are respected.

I had a meeting this morning for a potential job opportunity at a university, and I made a decision that’s been weighing heavily on me. After months of job hunting and countless rejections, I finally got a chance to meet with a manager thanks to a senior person who liked my CV. However, I arrived late and flustered due to security delays. During the meeting, the manager asked if I was enrolled in a master’s program, stating they prefer candidates who can commit for two to three years. I panicked and said no, even though I am actually starting part-time evening classes soon. I feel sick about lying. I know it was a split-second decision driven by fear of disqualification, but now I’m left with this overwhelming guilt. There’s no job offer yet, as the opening might not come until December, but I can’t shake the feeling that I’d be starting off on a dishonest note. I can’t imagine going back to correct my answer; the embarrassment feels unbearable. Has anyone else faced a similar situation? How did you handle it? Did it ever come out?

I am currently seeking a job in Kalyani Nagar (KP) and would appreciate any references or leads. I have experience in administrative roles and am eager to find new opportunities in the area.

I am feeling really frustrated about my current job search situation. I was fortunate enough to secure an in-person interview for a role I'm very interested in, scheduled for Tuesday. However, on the Friday before that interview, I received a last-minute invite for another position on the same day and almost the exact same time, but in a different town. I quickly replied asking if they could reschedule since it was such short notice, but I probably won't hear back until Monday, just a day before the interview. To make matters worse, on Sunday morning, I got yet another interview request for a different role, also on Tuesday at the same time. I reached out again to ask for a different date, but they said rescheduling wasn't possible. It's disheartening that neither of these companies gave any indication of when the interviews would happen or informed me that I was shortlisted. I can't help but feel that it's unfair to not consider alternative times, especially with such short notice. I know there are many applicants for each role, and it seems like they can easily move on if I can't make it. It feels like bad luck that three interviews ended up on the same day and time. After applying to so many positions, it's really disheartening to think I might lose out on two great opportunities because of this scheduling mess.

I was recently laid off and I'm now in the process of exploring new opportunities. After taking a few days to recharge, I'm ready to dive back into the job market. I have over 5 years of experience, starting in commercial analytics at a large analytics firm, then moving into strategy consulting, and most recently, I spent a year in the founder's office of a consumer AI startup where I reported directly to the founder. I've also gained some experience in product management. I hold an MBA from an Indian Institute of Management and have an engineering undergraduate degree. I'm looking for roles in the founder's office, chief of staff positions, corporate or commercial strategy, or product strategy. I'm open to opportunities in both startups and larger companies. Currently, I'm based in Gurugram, India, but I'm willing to relocate or work remotely. If anyone has leads or relevant opportunities, I'd love to hear from you. I'm happy to share my CV and discuss my experience further. I'm also here to support anyone else who might be in a similar situation.

I'm feeling overwhelmed with everything that's happening in my life right now. This year has thrown me some serious curveballs, and I'm struggling to keep my head above water. I got divorced in January 2025, which was tough, and I was already dealing with a redundancy process at my small charity job. I managed to survive that round by sheer luck, as two colleagues left voluntarily, but now I'm facing another redundancy in October/November 2026. My charity still hasn't secured the funding it needs, and I know I'm the one who's going to be let go this time. To add to the chaos, I finally sold the house that took me years to renovate, but I had to accept a low offer due to the market conditions. The sale will complete around December, just when I expect to lose my job. I was hoping to use the equity from the house, around 135K, to buy a new place, but losing my income makes getting a mortgage much harder. Now I'm considering renting, but I still need to secure a new job. Financially, I'm not in a position to take a break or go on a vacation, especially since I won't receive redundancy pay due to a short break I took for consultancy work. I also don't have any savings left after writing off my car last year. My family isn't close and can’t provide much support, so I'm feeling pretty isolated. I'm at a crossroads: should I rent somewhere cheap and focus on job hunting? Is it worth looking into buying a smaller place despite my job situation? Or should I take a bit of time to regroup, knowing that the next few months will be tough? I feel like I'm juggling too many big changes at once, and it's hard to maintain perspective. I'm reaching out for advice from anyone who has been in a similar situation.

I just stumbled upon a job posting on LinkedIn for a position at my current company, and it’s offering 30% more than what I make now. I’m feeling a mix of shock and frustration. The listing is for the same title and department I’m in, and the job description is essentially a copy of my daily responsibilities. To top it off, the salary range starts at $20k more than my current pay after two years of service. Last year, I only received a meager 3% raise despite my manager praising me as a "rockstar" and "essential" to the team. What’s really unsettling is that no one has mentioned anything about hiring someone new. We’re a small team, and there’s no budget for an extra hire, so I can’t help but think they might be planning to replace me. My performance reviews have consistently been positive, so this feels like a huge slap in the face. It’s demotivating to see they have the budget to pay more but chose to keep me at a lower rate. I have a one-on-one with my boss tomorrow, and I’m torn about whether to bring this up or keep quiet and start applying elsewhere. Part of me wants to apply for the position just to see how they react, but I know that could backfire. Has anyone else been in a similar situation? Should I even ask for a salary match at this point, or is it time to take the hint and move on? I’ve been putting in a lot of overtime lately, and this just adds to my frustration.

I just got laid off from my job and I'm feeling really lost right now. I worked as a marketing specialist at a tech company, and the news hit me hard. I'm unsure about what my next steps should be and could really use some guidance. If anyone has advice on how to navigate this situation or tips for job searching, I would greatly appreciate it.