Yes, Job Searching Is Hard—And You Can Still Do It

Forbes

4 hours ago

Jaide Massin, Author & Exec. Coach, is founder of Soar Executive Coaching helping leaders grow with clarity, courage, and impact.
Let's get real about job searching for a minute.
Yes, it's going to take longer than you expect. Yes, it's going to feel uncomfortable. Yes, you're going to have to put yourself out there. And yes, you'll probably get rejected more than once.
But none of that means you're doing it wrong. It means you're job searching.
Job searching isn't just about finding a job. It's about rediscovering what you want, reintroducing yourself to the market and reminding yourself—and others—of the value you bring. And that process? It can shake your confidence, feel vulnerable and wear you down.
But here's the truth: You only need one job. One "yes." And that yes comes when you stop trying to do it all alone and start doing it intentionally.
The Job Seekers Who Get Hired Do These Five Things
1. They believe they'll get hired. Not in a fake-it-til-you-make-it way, but with quiet, grounded confidence. They show up as if the job is coming—because they believe it is.
2. They align their tools with the job they want. Your résumé, LinkedIn profile and interview answers should reflect the level and role you're targeting. If they don't? That's where a résumé writer or career coach can help.
3. They tell people. They're not embarrassed to say, "I'm job searching." They tell former colleagues, mentors, friends—even their dentist. The more people who know, the more doors open.
4. They give as well as take. They share leads, make intros and offer help because they understand that career momentum is often a two-way street.
5. They ask better questions. Instead of "Know of any jobs?" they ask:
• "What skills are most valuable at your company right now?"
• "Who else should I be speaking with?"
• "If you were me, where would you focus next?"
Better questions spark better conversations, and those lead to real opportunities.
They Also Start Before You Think They Do
The most successful job seekers don't wait until they're desperate. They stay aware of the market. They take interviews even when they're not looking, just to stay sharp. They keep their networks warm. In this market, you need to be one step ahead, always.
Quick Tips For Staying In The Game
LinkedIn is still the no. 1 place to look and network. Keep your profile up to date and aligned with your target. Engage. Comment. Reconnect.
Check your frustration at the door. It's okay to feel it—briefly. But staying stuck in it won't get you results. Action will.
Ask yourself daily:
• What did I accomplish today?
• Who can I connect with tomorrow?
• What filters, companies or roles haven't I explored yet?
• Who can I speak with at a company I want to work for?
And If You Need Help?
Hiring a coach or résumé writer is bringing in a professional to fix a problem you may not even realize is costing you. Think of it as an investment—in your future, your family, your peace of mind.
If your messaging or your approach is off, it could be holding you back. And that delay compounds over time.
Final Thoughts
You only get one shot at your career. Don't guess. And consider not going it alone.
You've done hard things before. You can do this, too.
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