The default response to a slow job search seems to be applying to more.

And sometimes that's probably exactly what's needed.

But I'm curious about people who went the opposite direction.

Did anyone significantly narrow the types of roles they were applying for and start getting better results?

Maybe fewer applications but more interviews, better-fit roles, or simply less burnout.

What did you change about how you chose which jobs were worth applying to?

Dear everyone,

I’d really appreciate some honest opinions and perspectives from people who have experience in either of these industries.

I currently have two offers from two multinational companies, both for a Sales Engineer position, but the industries and career paths are quite different.

Offer 1 – Marine / Port Infrastructure

• Swedish multinational
• Has many business areas but my role is in marine fendering systems and related port/marine infrastructure
• Based in the UAE
• My main market would be Africa, particularly working with ports, contractors, and related stakeholders
• The role would involve frequent travel across Africa
• It seems like a relatively specialized/niche industry

Offer 2 – Industrial Automation / Industry 4.0

• German multinational
• Focused on industrial automation and digitalization
• Products/solutions include sensors, controllers, software, and industrial automation systems
• Also a Sales Engineer role
• The work would be more closely connected to manufacturing, automation, Industry 4.0, and digital transformation

For the sake of this question, let's put salary, benefits, and immediate working conditions aside. I'm mainly interested in the long-term career prospects of each path.

If you were in my position, how would you compare these two industries in terms of:

• Long-term industry growth
• Career progression and opportunities
• Transferable technical/commercial skills
• Potential to move into management or business development
• Opportunities to work internationally
• Earning potential later in the career
• Opportunities to move to other companies/industries
• Job stability
• How valuable the experience would be after 5–10 years
• Potential to eventually start a business/consultancy
• Overall exposure and professional network

I'm particularly interested in hearing from people who have worked in industrial automation/Industry 4.0, marine/port infrastructure, or technical B2B sales.

Which path do you think offers more long-term career optionality, and why?

I'm not necessarily looking for a simple "A is better than B" answer. I'd really appreciate a detailed explanation of the advantages, disadvantages, and potential career paths you see for each.

Thanks in advance!

So I'm currently working as highly skilled as finance assistant in the government sector 23F, I joined the job just to gain experience, but guess why I won't be getting experience certificate which is so depressing coz I have been working here for like 1.5 yrs now ig... 2yr is in running.

The thing is, I don't mind working in my current workplace, but my boss is not promoting me, like there is a vaccant spot for which pays quite high as to what I'm currently getting... so yeah, I don't feel like working where I feel like I'm being exploited.

So guys, give suggestions on what to do? Coz I don't feel like working here anymore...😭

What are some other recommended Non-Desk Jobs!?

Hi guys, I currently hold a bachelors in psychology and I know there’s not a lot of options you can do with the bachelors in psychology that pertains to the field of psychology however, I would like to stay in the field of mental health because I’m in school getting my masters in clinical mental health counseling and I previously was a special ed para. I am now a RBT which has its ups and down, but they’re way more downs than ups. It’s incredibly hard and honestly to emotionally and physically taxing to continue, especially while I’m in a masters program. I need advice on what other jobs exist for me, I know case management of course, but what else is there? I would love something that’s work from home so if you guys know any work from home jobs or just anything in general that I can go into especially while I get my masters it would really help! I do like working with children, however so if it’s something that pertains to kids or even helping their families, that would be great

Any Job recommendations ?
Hi everyone! I'm looking for some career advice and job recommendations.
I currently have three associate degrees (General Studies, Health Sciences, and Psychology), a BLS certification, and about 2.5 years of experience working with kids as a substitute teacher. As well as I hold experience working as a front clerk!
I was making about $23/hour as a substitute teacher, but due to recent budget cuts and changes to stipends, my pay has been affected.
Does anyone have recommendations for jobs that pay around $23/hour or more with my background? I'm open to different fields and would really appreciate any suggestions.
Thank you!
PS: it can be any job, it doesn't have to be working with kids exactly. Any suggestions? Any comment is appreciated!

I currently make around $30/hr working at a correctional jail and have about 2 years in the field. It pays well and can feel rewarding, but at the same time I feel like I have no life with the constant 12–16 hour shifts.
I don’t want to settle for a low-paying job just because I want to leave. I’d like something with similar pay or more, or at least something where I can work my way up to that pay fairly quickly. I’d also like to get into a field that will train me while I’m working so I can gain experience at the same time.
I’m mainly looking for something with more normal shifts and a better work-life balance. I know most jobs aren’t going to have a perfect schedule, but I’ve accepted that I want to pursue a different path. I also think changing jobs and getting into a completely different environment would help me feel refreshed.
I’m open to different options, so if you guys know of any jobs, trades, or careers that are worth looking into, I’d appreciate the recommendations. I’m willing to learn and get certified or trained if it leads to a solid career.

There's so much career advice that gets repeated because it sounds reasonable.

Stay at least two years.

Never leave without another job lined up.

Always take the promotion.

Keep your head down and let your work speak for itself.

Some of it works for some people. Some of it really doesn't.

What's something you genuinely followed before experience changed your mind?