She Strengthens

Breaking Free from the Daily Grind

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been driven to find a career that brings me fulfillment. As a high school student, I worked for the local newspaper, and my teachers wondered if I’d even make it through college (since I seemed to thrive in the workforce more than the classroom). Despite their doubts, I powered through college, working hard to graduate early. My first job out of college was in marketing, but it wasn’t exactly what I had envisioned. Instead of creating innovative campaigns, I found myself cold-calling people and dealing with hostile clients 80% of the time.

The Reality Check

At first, I tried to make the best of it, but the constant stress and anxiety took a toll on my mental health. I became fearful of talking on the phone, and my boyfriend had to make calls for me. I was terrified to go to work, and the thought of escaping my problems by running away was tempting. That’s when I knew I had to start searching for a new job.

The Job Hunt Begins

Looking for a job while working a full-time gig is a daunting task. I spent 10-hour days at my current job, only to come home and dedicate hours to searching for a new opportunity. I scoured job listings, LinkedIn recommendations, and funneled all my passion into finding a job that aligns with my values and skills. My job search became my side hustle.

Strategies for Success

After speaking with friends who’ve gone through similar struggles, I realized that colleges fail to prepare students for the challenges of job hunting in the digital age. Here are a few strategies that helped me navigate the process:

• Email notifications are your friend: Set up daily or weekly notifications from job boards to stay organized and motivated.
• Specialized job boards: Find job boards that cater to your specialty or desired field to avoid sifting through irrelevant listings.
• Follow up: Keep track of your applications and follow up with potential employers to increase your chances of getting noticed.
• Get creative: Think outside the box and research unconventional ways to find job opportunities, such as reaching out to industry professionals or searching for hiring tweets on Twitter.

The Light at the End of the Tunnel

After months of searching, I finally landed a social media management job that allowed me to work from home and eventually relocate to New York City. The process was stressful and expensive, but it was worth it. I now have a job that aligns with my passions, and I’ve learned to appreciate the value of endurance and clarity.

Perspective is Key

Even if you’re working in your desired field, it’s essential to regularly assess your job satisfaction and identify areas for growth. Don’t be afraid to incorporate your professional goals into your current role, and remember that you’re never stuck. Every experience, no matter how challenging, can help you identify red flags and learn what you like and dislike.

The Takeaway

Working in the world can be unpredictable, but having a game plan, working hard, and persevering can lead to a more fulfilling career. The search may seem endless, but it’s worth it in the end.