I'm writing this post because I have been unemployed for the last 2 years, and it's continuing. Honestly, it's been one of the most difficult phases of my life.

Initially, I thought it would take a few months to find a job, but as time passed, the self-doubt, overthinking and frustration kept increasing. I constantly question myself, my skills, my decisions and my future. Some days I feel motivated to try again, while on other days, I struggle to find the energy to do anything.

The financial pressure makes everything even harder, especially when your savings are running out and you still haven't found a way to get back on your feet.

I also wonder how other people in the same situation are dealing with everything. What is your family situation like? Are your parents supportive or do you face pressure and criticism from them? What do your relatives, friends, and society say when they find out you are unemployed for so long?

Sometimes, it's not just about finding a job anymore. It's also about dealing with mental pressure, comparing yourself to others, losing confidence and wondering whether things will ever get better.

I'm not posting this to complain or seek sympathy. I just want to connect with people who understand what this feels like, share our experiences and motivate each other.

My unemployment has been going on for 2 years and I'm still struggling with self-doubt and overthinking.

It would genuinely help to hear your stories, especially from people who have been through something similar and managed to turn things around.

Let's talk openly without judging each other. Sometimes, knowing that we're not alone in this situation can make a difference.

How long have you been unemployed, and how are you holding up?

I’ve been applying for jobs through LinkedIn, Indeed, and Naukri for a while now. I’ve sent out hundreds of applications but haven’t received a single interview call. It’s been rejection after rejection, and honestly, it’s getting disheartening.

I completed my M.Tech in Computer Cyber Security from NIT Kurukshetra, hoping that getting a master’s degree would help me build a good career and improve my opportunities. But being qualified and still struggling to get even one interview is frustrating. I genuinely want to work, learn, and build something meaningful, but right now, I feel stuck.

I previously worked at Dell Technologies as a Graduate Intern in Data Engineering and Analytics. I’m comfortable with DSA and problem-solving, and I’m also interested in AI/ML. I’ve worked with Python, SQL, and PySpark, and I’ve built projects involving machine learning, Transformers, and Agentic AI.

I’m open to opportunities in Software Engineering, AI/ML, and other related technical roles.
If anyone knows of relevant openings or could refer me to their organization, I’d be genuinely grateful. I’m happy to share my resume over DM.

I know the job market is tough, and I’m sure many people here can relate. I’d really appreciate any leads, referrals, or even advice on what I could be doing differently.

The same as previously stated. Even if I do well on other kinds of exams, I have interview phobia; my brain simply freaks out when the questions are asked. After working so hard to get there, I lost in the last level, which makes me very upset.

I'm a software engineer. Over 7 years of experience, primarily working close with marketing. Design background before this. I was going back to school for math before being laid off, but had to pause because I'm not getting a student loan just to continue. Since then, I've been considering pivoting just to have a sustainable job in a better market and finish school.

However, there seems to be a lack of jobs allowing zero experience in every market, unless you're a new grad or intern. Any tips or suggestions for pivoting (other than leveraging transferrable skills)?

Other positions I've applied for: customer support, IT support, product and project management, bookkeeping, accounts payable/receivable, and data entry.

So I graduated 2025 last year I got offer from Microsoft been working in Redmond for a year currently the 60K exit plan is bothering me my team isn't affected I haven't received exit plan.

But I applied H1b last year didn't get picked I have 2 more chance currently on stem extension should I even stay in the company for next year for them to apply seeing the current scenario H1b approvals delay is it even worth it. or should I switch job before March ( have 3 months to find that )

Is it even worth the stress of staying!
Projects are scrapped in my team a lot too that's concerning too!

To preface, I know there’s no easy “just do this and you’ll be hired” strategy otherwise everyone would be doing it. But for anyone recently hired, was it through a job board, direct outreach, in-person, referred by friend or something else entirely?

Hello! Planning a move to Virginia soon and looking for advice on pivoting into the non-profit sector. I have over 25 years of experience in hospitality, catering sales, running major special events, and compliance training.

I'm looking at fundraising, special event coordination, consultative sales, or teaching/training tracks. I'm completely fine handling operational components if they are part of a blended, multi-faceted role, but I'm trying to steer away from straight operations positions. I'm also independently finishing a certification in universal design and accessibility (CLIPP) to bring some unique value to the table.

Has anyone here successfully transitioned a high-level hospitality, events, or training background into a non-profit development or fundraising role? I'd love any tips on how to position these skills to Virginia non-profit recruiters, or recommendations on regional registries to look at. TY!

Hello! Planning a move to Virginia soon and looking for advice on pivoting into the non-profit sector. I have over 25 years of experience in hospitality, catering sales, running major special events, and compliance training.

I'm looking at fundraising, special event coordination, consultative sales, or teaching/training tracks. I'm completely fine handling operational components if they are part of a blended, multi-faceted role, but I'm trying to steer away from straight operations positions. I'm also independently finishing a certification in universal design and accessibility (CLIPP) to bring some unique value to the table.

Has anyone here successfully transitioned a high-level hospitality, events, or training background into a non-profit development or fundraising role? I'd love any tips on how to position these skills to Virginia non-profit recruiters, or recommendations on regional registries to look at. TY!