Staying Strategic When You’re Desperate for Work
David Hermanson
Project Manager @ Surerus Murphy JV | Pipelines, CAN??, UK ????, and US ?? Energy Supporter, Mental Health Advocate
Job hunting can be tough, especially when urgency adds pressure to the process. While it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, approaching your search strategically can make all the difference. Here are five tips to help you navigate your job search with professionalism, even when you’re feeling desperate:
1. Focus on Your Core Strengths
When time is critical, zero in on roles that align with your skills and experience. Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize your expertise and accomplishments. Highlighting your value makes you stand out to employers and saves time chasing less relevant roles.
2. Expand Your Network
Your network is one of your greatest assets. Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and connections to let them know you’re searching. Use LinkedIn to connect with recruiters, join professional groups, and actively engage with industry-related posts. Be clear but professional when asking for referrals or leads.
3. Be Open to Temporary Solutions
If a full-time role isn’t immediately available, consider temporary, contract, or freelance work. These opportunities can help you maintain income, build new skills, and expand your network, which may lead to permanent opportunities.
4. Maintain a Professional Image
Desperation can sometimes lead to overly casual or aggressive communication. Stay professional in all interactions—whether it’s crafting a LinkedIn post, emailing a recruiter, or attending an interview. Employers want to see confidence, enthusiasm, and readiness, not panic.
领英推荐
5. Practice Self-Care
Job searching under pressure can be emotionally draining. Set aside time for self-care—exercise, hobbies, or time with loved ones. A clear and calm mind will help you make better decisions and present yourself more confidently to employers.
6. Make your resume ATS Friendly
An ATS-friendly resume is important because many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen and filter job applications before they reach a human recruiter. If your resume is not optimized for these systems, it might get automatically rejected—even if you're highly qualified. Here’s why an ATS-friendly resume matters:
a. Ensures Your Resume Gets Seen
b. Increases Your Chances of Landing an Interview
c. Handles High Competition
d. Avoids Formatting Issues
e. Matches Job-Specific Keywords
Final Thoughts
Desperation doesn’t have to define your job search. By staying focused, strategic, and professional, you’ll not only increase your chances of landing a role but also build long-term career resilience. Remember, every step forward is progress—keep pushing!
What strategies have worked for you during challenging job searches? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
This advice keeps job hunters focused and confident, even in difficult situations.
Project Manager @ Surerus Murphy JV | Pipelines, CAN??, UK ????, and US ?? Energy Supporter, Mental Health Advocate
2 周Appreciate you Phil McGeough Hope to catch up soon
"Our Business is Growing yours"
2 周Great post - if I can add a couple small things 2) when expanding your network look to who they know or where they work - make lists neighbours- where do they work ? How about his wife ? Expanding your network exponentially with this little trick and 3) look to other indistriws where your skills might work like parts person with Finning, look to car dealerships, electrical wholesalers because the roles are the same just a different sandbox - call us anytime if you have questions how we placed over 300 professionals year after year - keep doing what you’re doing David
chef de projet
2 周what is this strategic
Director Of Operations at Cenozon Inc.
2 周Great tips! Positive mind set and knowing you can do anything. Just have to figure it out
Great post David!!!