How to #GetUnstuck in the Job Search

As a career coach, I often hear the same question in different forms: “Why am I not making progress in my job search?”

The truth is, most stalled job hunts boil down to one of three sticking points. Once you identify where you’re getting stuck, you can apply the right strategies to get moving again.

Let’s walk through the three stages of the job search and how to get yourself unstuck at each one.

Stage 1: Getting Started – “I don’t even know where to begin.”

If you’re in a job that drains you, and you don’t know what you want next, this is your stage.

The good news? This is actually the most exciting place to be stuck because you get to dream. You’re not bogged down with interviews or applications yet. You just need to explore what might be possible.

Try This:

1. Go to LinkedIn’s Alumni Tool.

2. Search your college or university, then scroll to the second set of filters to see “What they studied.”

3. Select your major to see a list of alumni with similar backgrounds.

4. Start scrolling and ask:

   • Does this job sound interesting?

   • Is this company one I’ve heard good things about?

   • Is this someone I admire or would love to learn from?

If you answer “yes” to any of those, reach out for an informational chat. You’ll learn more about possible paths and begin to picture yourself on one.

💡 Pro Tip: Most alumni are happy to help. Check your school’s alumni directory for contact info and send a friendly email to learn more about their path.

Stage 2: Getting an Interview – “I’m applying... and hearing nothing.”

If you know what you want but aren’t getting calls back, you’re in the Application Trap. There are two possible culprits: Quantity and Quality.

Application Trap #1: Quantity

You might not be applying to enough roles. While focus is good, it shouldn’t become an excuse for inaction. If you’re putting out just one or two applications a month, you’re playing a very low-odds game.

Quick Fixes:

• Hire a recruiter. Search LinkedIn or Google for “executive recruiter” plus your industry and location. Third-party Recruiters and Search Firms are financially motivated to get you interviews fast.

• Bring in an accountability buddy. Ask them to check in with you on your application goals and potentially enlist them to bring in consequences (like spending time or money). It works.

  
  

Application Trap #2: Quality

If you’re applying regularly but still getting radio silence, your application materials may be the problem.

Quick Fixes:

• Ask for a brutally honest review. Find someone in your target industry (ideally someone with the job you want or who hires for it). Ask them, “Tell me all the reasons you wouldn’t interview me.” It might sting, but it’s better than hearing nothing from recruiters.

• Get an internal referral. Even a stellar resume can get lost in the applicant black hole. Use LinkedIn’s alumni search to find a connection at the company and ask if they’d be willing to refer you. Referrals dramatically boost your chances of landing an interview.

• Talk with a career coach about your keywords and how an ATS would read your resume. Contact me to schedule an appointment to review your resume and a cover letter.

Stage 3: Getting an Offer – “I interview, but never get the job.”

If you're consistently landing interviews but not offers, you're close but something’s off in your presentation. Just like an actor preparing for a performance, your success depends on two things: your lines and your delivery.

Interview Trap #1: Your Content

Are your stories strong enough? Are they clearly showing your value?

Try this structure for every story you tell (CAR):

• The Challenge: What was the problem? Give some background information

• Your Action: What did you do to fix it?

• The Result: What changed because of your efforts?

Example: "We were facing a major deadline and morale was low. I organized a team kickboxing class to blow off steam. We came back refreshed, hit our deadline early, and the entire team stayed together for two more years."

Keep 5-7 "Rockstar Moment" stories in your back pocket, showing you at your best (communication, teamwork, thinking on your feet, detail management, conflict resolution, etc.) Have a friend review your stories. Ask them:

• “Do you understand what I did?”

• “Do you understand why it mattered?”

  
  

Interview Trap #2: Your Delivery

Even with great stories, how you come across can make or break your chances.

Ask a friend to conduct a mock interview and rate you on:

• Do you show positive energy (smile, body language)?

• Do you demonstrate humor and self-awareness?

• Do you seem like someone they’d want to work with?

Final Thoughts

Wherever you're stuck in the job search, the key is diagnosis first, action second. Once you know your stage, you can take targeted steps to get unstuck and move forward.

Need help figuring out where you're stuck or how to make that next move?

Let’s talk. Fill out the inquiry form to schedule a free discovery call at Rising Star Career Coaching and start building your escape plan today.