Hello everyone. I know I’ve been gone for a while. Today I’m not sharing art either, I want to share some thoughts about job hunting. I’m currently looking for a job myself, and I see tons of videos on social media about how overcrowded the market is and how impossible it is to find work. If you’re worried about that, I hope I can encourage you a bit by sharing my perspective. It’s not the ultimate truth, and I’m not some guru who fully understands how the market works, but I do have some experience.
Formally, I’m in the IT industry. We all know it’s crowded, and it’s not always easy to stand out, especially if you don’t have years of experience or any at all. You have to find a way to differentiate yourself. On job search platforms, you usually send your resume to a bunch of vacancies… and that’s it. No response, nothing. If you like a position and the recruiter’s contact is listed — call them. We’re all used to thinking that companies are doing us a favor by offering us a job, like we’re small and insignificant, but actually, you’re the main character of this story.
If you’re scared to call, try to treat it like a game: scare the recruiter more than you’re scared of them. Say which position you’re interested in, ask about the company, the role details, where it’s best to send your resume, and be ready to talk a bit about yourself.
Another important thing when job hunting —yes, lie. It’s true that even for internships or junior roles, employers sometimes expect unrealistic levels of experience and skills. But the thing is, once you’re actually on the job, no one will ask you for all of that. Or if the requirements are way higher than the position and salary, then something is off with the company. You can exaggerate your experience a bit, maybe even your skills. Even if you don’t know something perfectly, still list it. If needed, you’ll figure it out on the job. For example, I’m applying for web designer roles. I used to be an illustrator, so I combine that as part of my experience. I’m not great at 3D or video editing, but I’m somewhat familiar with them, and if needed, I can learn, so I include them in my skills.
They also say there are "correct" answers to certain recruiter questions. Maybe that’s true. I personally don’t really get it, and I find it hard to memorize what you’re supposedly supposed to say or ask. Maybe you feel differently, and maybe it’s helped you. But overall, what they really want is for you to do your job and, eventually, be able to work independently. And sure, they’d also prefer you didn’t ask for much money, but that part isn’t worth paying attention to.
And most importantly — don’t overthink it. You will never feel fully ready, good enough, or professional enough. Your portfolio will never feel perfect. Go for good opportunities like your presence is a gift to the employer, go for them like an unhinged narcissist. You deserve better. We set our own limits in our heads. No matter your experience — even if you’re a beginner, you’ll make it. Yes, I recommend preparing, but you need to prepare while taking action. Think of it as a game where you have to try and fail in order to win. The more you try, the higher your score. Rejections from employers do not define your level of professionalism and should not affect your self-esteem. Victory is closer than you think.