Not Finding That Dream Job and Think It’s Your CV? Think Again

Let's be honest, finding a job is work itself. We do all the research about what we should and shouldn't do, and sometimes it feels like we are always missing something. A new trend, a new concept, or a new idea has been launched and is working super-coolly for someone.

You have been adjusting the format and following the Harvard format because it's better to keep it short and sweet: one-page long. It's better for recruiters and companies to have it cool and organized.

You took the time to edit your photo to look more professional by removing the background and thinking about what to wear. Is this a more startup and relaxed environment so it is cool to look relaxed? Or more a corporate approach?

You highlighted the tools because today technology is one of the most important factors, so you emphasized expertise in software programs, coding languages, and analytical tools.

You added all your certifications to your profile, but not too many. Again, we need to keep it short and focused on the role you want to apply for. Additionally, you incorporated visually appealing elements, such as graphs, charts, and infographics, to make it look cool, organized, and beautiful at the same time

You summarized all your goals using numbers and KPIs, highlighting the impact you had on the company, including growth percentages, cost-saving initiatives, and successful project completions. Even if you don’t fully understand what all that means.

You did networking on LinkedIn, adding everyone from any other social media platform that someone mentioned — recruiters, CEOs — adding the “Thanks for connecting” message, or liking posts.

You have more than one version as you took the time to customize job applications for each position to align qualifications, experiences, and achievements with the specific requirements of the role. Tailoring resumes and cover letters showcased an understanding of employer needs and demonstrated how your skills and experiences could contribute to organizational goals. Are they looking for a Head of Sales or a Sales Manager? Is it the tech industry or the manufacturing world?

Have you been wrong doing all of this? No, everything is OK. You have been doing great at everything, honestly, so why, if you are doing everything so greatly, are you not landing that dream job? Let's start by acknowledging that finding a job is not a linear process and there are many things we need to keep in mind. And sorry to say this, but no, you can't control everything:

Economic factors: Conditions and trends that influence the economy of a region, country, or the world as a whole. These factors can include inflation rates, interest rates, GDP growth, unemployment rates, consumer spending, and government policies. Economic factors significantly impact businesses, industries, and individuals, affecting everything from job availability and wages to market demand for goods and services.

Technological advancements: These innovations frequently lead to the creation of new products, services, and processes, alongside enhancements in efficiency, productivity, and communication. Examples include the invention of new devices, the development of software solutions or the integration of automation and artificial intelligence to new sectors.

Industry consolidation or expansion: When companies within a particular sector merge or acquire one another, resulting in fewer, larger entities dominating the market. This can lead to increased efficiency, reduced competition, and greater market power for the remaining companies. Industry expansion refers to the growth of businesses within a specific industry, often driven by factors like increased demand, technological innovation, or favorable economic conditions. Both industry consolidation and expansion can significantly impact job availability, competition, and market dynamics.

Timing and seasonality: Job availability may fluctuate based on seasonal or cyclical factors within certain industries. For instance, hiring may slow down during holiday periods or peak seasons, impacting the timing of job openings and recruitment cycles. While starting a new role in December is possible, it's worth noting that companies typically have more open roles and budgets during the first and second quarters of the year.

Geographic location: While many companies offer remote opportunities, there are still many that do not. The job market can vary significantly depending on your geographic location. Factors such as population density, industry presence, and local economic conditions can influence job availability and competition in different regions.

Have you been analyzing or considering these points? Navigating these external factors requires flexibility, patience, and a proactive approach to your job search. While you may not have direct control over these variables, staying informed and adapting your strategy can help you overcome obstacles and gain a better understanding of what you're doing.

The secret is to find a balance between what we are doing and what is happening around us. We need to be aware of both. Being in a boat in the middle of a storm is not the same as it is on a sunny day, right?

The last thing to keep in mind, but by no means less important, is the main motivation behind applying for that job. We need to prioritize three main aspects and follow them in our search. This will prevent confusion as we move forward in the process, or in the best scenario, if we need to choose between two offers.

Do you want to improve your salary? Do you want to learn about new industries? Perhaps try the experience of leading a team? Or maybe you're interested in working remotely and having more time for activities like swimming? All these factors are valid, and we need to set them and always keep them in mind.

Why is this key? Many people want to change jobs to pursue their “dream job,” but oftentimes, that dream isn't realistic. Why should working be a dream? We need to set realistic expectations, and that will be crucial not only during the search process but also throughout your journey within that company

Why do you work? I've heard the term “dream job” since I was a child. Some people knew they wanted to be a doctor since they were 5 and eventually achieved it, landing their dream job. But what about those who finished high school, started university, and never found that dream job? Does everyone need to have a dream job?

Why are you seeking that job? If it's merely for survival, paying taxes, and covering expenses like rent, is that truly enough?

The truth is, some people feel they were born for certain things, while others don't, and that's OK. Finding fulfillment can happen at work, in your personal life, pursuing hobbies, traveling as a nomad, or in any other pursuit one desires — and, again, that's OK. Perhaps someone's dream revolves around family and simply having a job for the salary, and that's OK as well.

Someone found joy in being a driver, even though they once dreamed of being an astronaut or a flight pilot. Robert initially aspired to be a firefighter but discovered his knack for numbers. He pursued studies in administration, eventually starting his own business, which allowed him the flexibility to enjoy free time playing the guitar two times a week — another passion.

Florence initially dreamed of becoming an actress, but her aptitude for organization and an analytical approach led her to study engineering. As a consultant, she discovered the potential for a good income and the opportunity to travel. While it wasn't her dream job, she found happiness and fulfillment in her career, nonetheless,

While work is undeniably a key aspect of our lives, it doesn't define our entire existence.

Discovering the goal of your job isn't something you can simply define — it's something you experience. Therefore, aim to find a job that you enjoy, with a safe environment and a good work culture.

If you're living your dream job, that's great. But if you're working to sustain your passion for travel, make a positive impact, and save the planet, or pursue art, that is great as well. We've often heard that our work and its impact on the world define us and the world we inhabit, but perhaps we need to stop talking about that dream job and start talking about a dream life that includes a good job. Simple, but realistic.