Job Seekers Unite! My Job is Finding a Job Reconvenes
A Recap of "My Job is Finding a Job" Panel at St. John's University
On January 28th, 212NYC brought together a powerful panel at St. John’s University for a much-requested sequel to last year’s My Job is Finding a Job event. The evening buzzed with energy, sparked by the authenticity and thought leadership of the panelists, and left everyone feeling more inspired and equipped for their career journeys.
The session, titled "My Job is Finding a Job," was far more than just career advice. It was an evening filled with laughter, connection, and those “aha” moments that come only when a conversation is real, raw, and impactful. Attendees walked away with not only actionable insights but also a renewed sense of purpose in their job search.
The panelists, some of the biggest-hearted career professionals in the business, offered a range of tips and advice that resonated deeply with the crowd. Their messages focused not only on practical strategies for finding a job but also on the mindset necessary to stay resilient and focused during what can be a challenging process.
Remember Your "Why" and Stay Focused
One of the most powerful pieces of advice shared during the event was the importance of remembering why you're seeking a job in the first place. Stay focused on your purpose and let that drive guide your decisions throughout the job search. It's easy to get lost in the noise, but by keeping your personal "why" front and center, you'll find yourself more energized and motivated.
Don’t Chase What’s Not for You
Another key message was to stop wasting time chasing opportunities or people that aren't a good fit for you. Whether it’s a job or a recruiter, when things don’t feel right, it’s okay to let go and move on. In the long run, being patient and intentional will pay off far more than going after something that doesn’t align with your values or goals.
Leverage Your Network—Start with Your Community
The panel reinforced the critical importance of networking in the job search process. Over 75% of people get hired through their networks, which means that your community can be your most powerful resource. Reach out to friends, former colleagues, and alumni groups—they are all part of the network that can help you find your next opportunity. People know people, and people hire people.
Ask for Advice, Not Just a Job
One nugget of wisdom that stuck with the audience was the idea that if you ask for a job, you might get advice. But if you ask for advice, you’re far more likely to land a job. Approaching your connections with a spirit of curiosity and learning, rather than directly asking for a job, often leads to better conversations and more meaningful connections that can open doors down the line.
Every Step of the Interview Process is a Test
From the first phone screen to the final interview, every step in the hiring process is an opportunity to show who you are. Panelists emphasized that it's crucial to maintain your integrity throughout the process—it’s a small world, and how you show up in interviews can leave a lasting impression.
Practice to Be Impactful
Being articulate is important, but being impactful in an interview is a whole different ballgame. To truly stand out, you need to practice, practice, practice. The more you rehearse your responses, the more natural and confident you'll appear when the moment arrives. Effective communication in interviews comes down to being clear, concise, and impactful in your responses.
Intentionality Over “Spray and Pray”
Finally, the panelists shared a crucial reminder that “spray and pray” does not work in today’s job market. Sending out generic resumes or applying to countless job postings without any intention or focus will not get you very far. Being intentional, targeted, and strategic about your job search is key to success.
The energy in the room, the authentic conversations, and the powerful takeaways from the evening made this event a standout for everyone involved. Thank you to all the panelists for your time, compassion, and commitment to helping others succeed. Your insights were invaluable, and your willingness to share openly made all the difference for everyone in the room.
This event left an indelible mark on all attendees, and we’re excited to see how these insights will fuel their career journeys. To all the job seekers in the 212NYC community—stay connected, stay focused, and remember that every step you take brings you closer to your next opportunity. We look forward to seeing the success stories unfold!