June 9, 2026
Ask anyone who’s been in a prolonged job search these days and they’ll likely describe it in not-so-glowing terms.
In fact, I’d be surprised if there’s any phosphorescence whatsoever remaining in their account.
- “AI took my job.”
- “I’m overqualified.” (also code-speak for “too old”)
- “I’ve submitted 200 applications and haven’t gotten a single phone-screen request yet.”
- “I applied last night and got the auto-reject email this morning.”
I could go on because I’ve heard my fair share, and probably uttered a few under my own breath. Perhaps one or two while screaming into a conveniently located throw pillow.
Between my April-December 2025 job search and a new search that began in May, it would be easy to go with the “woe is me” theme. Everyone needs a good pity party every now and again, after all.
But this go-around, I’ve chosen to skip the down-isms and lock in on opportunities. That “next better chapter” mindset.
Here are a few factors that are helping to fuel that mindset:
- I’m better off, right here, right now. For a variety of reasons, my last job just wasn’t a great fit. For the first time in my nearly 30-year career. As a self-respecting professional, that realization stung. My peers were amazing, supportive and capable professionals who did their best work and gave me great confidence. Quite a few of them also were included in the Reduction in Force. So I’ll attribute a healthy slice of my mindset to the idea that I’m better off where I am. Where each day I wake up and think about the work that propels me forward. That helps me crush my own KPIs. That increases my stock value.
- I’m applying a lot of what I learned during last year’s search. Not only about “the process,” but about myself and what I really want for my next chapter. That means not settling for a role that may pay well in dollars but doesn’t pay me back in personal satisfaction or align well with my skills. And not reaching out broadly to anyone and everyone for guidance and leads, but engaging with colleagues and connections who know me best and have my best interests at heart.
- I anticipated and prepared for a disruption. These days, I think all knowledge workers, or those most likely to be affected by a mass layoff event, should factor job disruptions into their monthly budgets. Save as much as you can — pre-tax for retirement and post-tax for a highly liquid emergency fund. Prepare a handy “layoff playbook” and keep it within easy reach so you can ask the important questions during the most stressful times (ask me for mine and I’m happy to send it to you). Stay active on LinkedIn and other job networks and regularly maintain your relationships there. Because these days, it’s not a matter of if, but when.
These factors, among others, are propelling me forward in a job search I didn’t anticipate would be back so soon, with confidence, and maybe a bit of new-found phosphorescence. I’ll get back to you here soon and let you know how that goes.
This personal reflection is certified AI-free.