Looking for a job is a job in itself.

A phrase as redundant as it is little recognized.

Looking for a job is one of the most thankless tasks there is . It's not just about sending out resumes: it's an exercise in perseverance, in showing your best self even on days when motivation is low. And the hardest part is that the outcome doesn't depend entirely on you. Success is never guaranteed.

In my experience as a career coach, we receive responses from only about 10% of the applications we send. It's a rough road, full of uncertainty, where luck plays a role and frustration lurks. But even so, we have to keep going. Because looking for a job, even though no one says it out loud, is a job in itself.

However, are we using our available time in the best way?

📊 What the data says

• Volatile market: In Europe, 2024 and 2025 have been years of strong corporate restructuring , with a notable increase in insolvencies and reorganizations in sectors such as energy, retail and technology (Cinco Dias)

• 80%-85% of positions are filled through networking (Forbes, Adecco and SHRM)

• Recent research indicates that 40% of companies published fake job ads in 2025 , and three out of ten still have active misleading ads (Forbes Spain).

My interpretation of the data is that companies prefer referred candidates and many of the opportunities are either not real, or are filled quickly, either internally or through referrals (through the applicant's network).

💭 Beliefs that often limit us

In these processes, thoughts arise that hinder more than help:

• “The important thing is to have the perfect CV.”

• “If I apply to a lot of jobs, something will come up.”

• “I don’t have time to think about what I want, I’d better move forward quickly.”

• “Contacting strangers is a waste of time.”

These ideas , while common, are often based more on anxiety than strategy . Job searching is more effective when it combines reflection, action, and networking.

What you might be missing (not exhaustive)

My coachees frequently identify these areas to strengthen:

• Define your goal: what you want and what you are willing to sacrifice.

• Ensure market relevance: connect your purpose with what the world needs or capitalize on trends.

• Define target companies : focus the search on companies that fit what you are looking for.

• Activate the network: contact people you know and don't know, ask for advice and start conversations.

• ...

  
  

🌱 Final reflections

Finding a job isn't easy, but many people have done it before and there's plenty of information available about what works.

A good CV and applying on job portals are not enough: it's about combining reflection, strategy, and a diversified action plan.

Each search is also an opportunity to get to know yourself better, adjust priorities, and open new doors. With a clear plan and the willingness to persevere , the journey ceases to be merely difficult and becomes an evolution toward a career more aligned with what you truly want.