Ask HN: Why am I struggling to find a job?
25 points by throwaway7676 2 days ago | 15 comments
I'm in the market for an engineering job over the past two months but I'm really struggling at finding one. Basically, my story is:
- Full Stack with 12+ years of experience, good generalist/architect with a some strong points.
- Working remotely in EU timezone.
- Got a nice CV with big names and projects I significantly contributed on.
- Last full time job was 1.5 years ago but I have done plenty of one-off client and personal projects in the meantime I can show off.
I only apply to positions that are fully remote in my timezone and where the profile is at least an 80% match or more. I often tick multiple of the "nice to have" boxes. I put quite some effort in my applications, writing cover letters or filling all boxes in the form with relevant and personalized information, Despite that, most companies reject me right away.
When I make it further, I usually pass coding tests with flying colors. It does happen that I bomb the technical questions due to stress, I can't find the right words to explain how I would solve something but in code it's not an issue. The non-technical calls usually go very well, I'm a likable guy and can hold a good conversation.
So far, I got zero offers. I'm even ready to take a 50% pay cut compared to my previous position. Is the market really that bad or is my profile just undesirable? Or am I doing something wrong? I'm really starting to feel desperate. Any advice or ideas would greatly help.
Ps: This is not self promotion (thus the throwaway/anonymous account), not asking for a job just advice.
rasulkireev 3 hours ago | next |
I have one suggestion. Find the place where you want to work. Get the email of the hiring person. Record a video introduction and send it along with a description of why you are the best person for the work.
This will put you above everyone else! You are almost guaranteed to go through the door and then it is up to you to prove you are awesome, which I have no doubt you are!
Self-plug: I built a tool to help you find the perfect job for you (and you can filter on whether the job posting has an email) https://gettjalerts.com/jobs/