It's Not You, It's the Job Market: What to Do When You’re Feeling Stuck in Your Job Search

Lately, no matter who I’m meeting with, whether it’s someone fresh out of college or a mid-career professional with over a decade of experience, finding a job has become increasingly tough. Recent reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics confirm what so many are experiencing firsthand: opportunities are tighter, competition is fierce, and landing the right role takes more time than ever.  Additionally, long-term unemployment, defined as being out of work for over six months, has reached its largest share of the jobless population in more than three years (BLS).

The word "ouch" is painted in bold red letters.

So how do you continue to stay motivated? How do you keep your momentum when rejections pile up or silence drags on after applications?

Here are three strategies that can help you push through the challenges and keep moving forward.

1. Seek Guidance from a Career Coach or Mentor

Think of a Career Coach as your personal navigator—someone in the passenger seat making sure you’re correctly following the GPS and handing you snacks along the way. Instead of turn-by-turn directions, a coach can point you toward professional associations to expand your network, certifications to strengthen your skill set, or strategies to sharpen your search.

Beyond resources, a coach helps you stay on track and accountable. As Marshall Goldsmith puts it, “What we measure improves. What we share with someone else improves exponentially.” Regular check-ins (biweekly or at least monthly) ensure you’re making steady progress, even when the road feels long.

If hiring a career coach isn’t financially feasible, consider reconnecting with your institution’s career services office as many offer free or discounted support for alumni. If you’re currently employed, you may also find it helpful to seek guidance from a mentor or someone you trust who is in a role you aspire to. And don’t overlook your local public library. For New Yorkers, the NYPL offers free access to career workshops, resume reviews, job search databases, and LinkedIn Learning, all with just a library card.

2. Consistency is Key

In a tough job market, it’s crucial to treat your job search like a part-time job. Every Sunday, look ahead to the coming week and block off dedicated time for your search.

And here’s the important part: that time shouldn’t just be spent applying online. Research shows that referrals and networking are far more effective pathways to landing interviews than applications alone (Ashby). Think of consistency as building momentum; small, steady steps compound into progress over time.

3. Build Connection

Hearing “we’re sorry, the role has been filled” (or worse, hearing nothing at all) can be super discouraging. That’s why having a support system is vital—not just family and friends, but peers who understand what you’re going through.

Start by seeking out groups where others are facing or have faced similar challenges. Lean In Circles, industry-specific meetups and even hobby-based groups can help you connect with like-minded people who offer encouragement, accountability, and perspective.

The job search can feel isolating, but you don’t have to do it alone. Connection fuels resilience.

Final Thought

The job market is tough, but motivation comes from taking action; small, consistent steps, supported by the right people around you. Whether you enlist the help of a coach or mentor, structure your time, or surround yourself with a community, you’ll be building not just a stronger search strategy, but also the resilience to keep going until the right opportunity comes along.