Overlooked But Optimistic: My Job Search Rollercoaster.

Eleven months ago, I took a leap of faith. I left a secure job for a chance to build something new in campus recruiting. It was exciting – a chance to climb a different mountain in my career after 12 years on a steady path. It meant more financial security, a potential new house, and more travel-the list can go on. But after three months, the program was terminated, and I was laid off.

This wasn't a risk I take often, and the sting of unemployment was sharp. But as someone who always tries to find the silver lining, I clung to the knowledge that I wasn't alone. Thankfully, I have a great support system – family, friends, and a part-time social media gig (shoutout to MicroSeismic, Inc. -give the page a follow). I've also been temping and drawing on my adaptable skills, proving recruiters are more than just one specific program.

I have spent 337 days looking for a full time recruiting job.

The Job Hunt Grind

The past year has been a rollercoaster. While I'm an optimist, the constant job search and dwindling savings have caused immense and unwanted anxiety. My dream of buying a house in 2024/2025 is on hold, and come June, my savings will be depleted. This means adapting again, maybe becoming a summer nanny like in the past. I've cut back on eating out and ordering out...which has started to make me a better cook (silver lining)!

A Message to Recruiters

I've cast a wide net, applying to over 1,000 jobs in recruiting, retail, babysitting, and admin work. It has been frustrating to be ghosted by recruiters in a field where empathy is crucial. Remember, the people you interview are facing immense stress, so a simple update goes a long way.

Throughout this unpredictable time, I've interacted with recruiters on both ends of the spectrum. Some treated me like a number, while others were genuinely kind and kept me informed. To those kind recruiters, a heartfelt thank you. You represent the best of your profession, and your efforts haven't gone unnoticed. We, the adaptable candidates, will be back on top soon.

I follow Julia Arpag , if you're not go follow Julia.

Julia recently said, "Crazy idea: get yourself a top recruiter instead of wasting time, energy, and money on roles that have been sitting open for months. You think it's expensive to hire a retained recruitment firm? It's way more expensive to make a bad hire, leave roles open, and recruit when you're not a recruiter. Buy back your time."

A comment, from Julia's post that stood out to me stated, "Nobody's full-time job is assessing and hiring talent. Unless you're a skilled recruiter. Skilled recruiters can assess transferable skills & experiences to help identify unexpected talent a SME or hiring manager might not appreciate. Skilled recruiters can help hiring managers identify blind spots. Skilled recruiters will make sure hiring managers don't just copy / paste that job post from 1992. You would never ask an accountant to build a house. Why not hire the people who recruit people for a living? Julia, I couldn't agree more!"

I couldn't agree more with the post and comment. Experienced/transferable recruiters are getting overlooked.

Another great LinkedIn voice I follow is Carolyn Christie . Carolyn made a post, a few months ago, that really resonated with me.

" "He is overqualified." When you unpack that, it is probably one of the most ridiculous statements I've ever heard. That is like saying "They are too good at this job." What?! Being overqualified is like being a 'super smart" person in a room full of 'regular smart' people.

Why is that a problem? It's not.

Here is why you should hire an 'over-qualified' person. ??

1) An overqualified candidate has already proven their ability to learn and excel. They will be a fast learner.

2) Problem solving: An over-qualified candidate can probably help with a unique set of problems due to their vast experience.

3) Mentorship potential: We don't have time to train right? They could be your solution.

4) Increased production: If you are overqualified, you will probably be efficient, which means more production.

5) Positive Influence: They can elevate the overall motivation and skill of the entire team.

Perhaps it is time to give this phrase back to the first person who jokingly said it."

In my early 30s and I'm facing a unique challenge. While I'm highly qualified for many positions, I'm also finding myself overlooked. But here's the thing: I'm not discouraged. I'm excited by the prospect of growth. And I thought buying a house would be a unique challenge-funny how things work out!

These "overlooked" positions might hold the key to expanding my skillset or venturing into new industries. Even if it means starting afresh, I'm ready to embrace the challenge. Because at the heart of it all, my passion lies in making a positive impact.

So, to the hiring managers out there, take a chance on those "overqualified" candidates. We might surprise you with our adaptability and dedication. We're not seeking a handout, just the opportunity to contribute our skills, enthusiasm, and to continue to grow.