I’m definitely going to sound bitter. No matter how many times I write this blog out, I sound like a crybaby. So be it.
I recently found out I wasn’t selected for a job I was in the running for, and while I’d love to say I’ve brushed it off, it’s been a bit frustrating. I didn’t even get an interview. This situation has layers, though.
In one of my current contract roles, the owner mentioned that they dislike hiring because they feel “everyone is flaky.” I get it. He’s been looking for a full-time person for almost a year. 5 out of the 11 flaked on the last interview day.
I’ve made blanket statements in the past, and deep down, I knew it wasn’t true. But I said it anyway out of laziness. Over time, I’ve learned that breaking out of that habit takes discipline, awareness, and a willingness to grow. Sometimes, I still catch myself making those statements.
Blanket statements are always reductive and often false. For example, a friend recently told me that all Donald Trump supporters are racist. I voted for Trump, and I’m certainly not a racist. I don’t like him, nor do I feel he’s a good representation of our country. If you lived in LA during Covid, you should understand why most of us voted for him.
Generalizations oversimplify people and situations—and I try to avoid them. A lot of people say that about Trump supporters. I wouldn’t go as far as to say I support him. I just voted because I think liberals are kinda crazy right now. In 4 years, I’ll probably vote for a Democrat. Being loyal to one side or the other doesn’t make sense to me, but I don’t judge anyone. I voted for Kanye in 2020. Back to the job.
I’d been communicating with this employer for over a month. This wasn’t the first time either—last year, around the same time, they posted the same job, and it played out similarly. Back-and-forth messages, providing ideas and insights, answering questions about the equipment he should buy, and even sending him a list of what value the equipment would bring to his needs. His messages were a little excessive, but I really wanted this gig.
This time, after more of the same, I got an automated rejection email.
There were red flags along the way. One was the constant requests for advice and ideas before any formal hiring decision was made, or even having an initial interview. In my experience, when employers do this, it can signal a lack of respect for your time. Another is when employers talk negatively about their current team. If they’re badmouthing them, assuming they’ll do the same about you is a safe bet.
Am I frustrated? Sure. I work for myself. Being frustrated is a way of life for people like me.
As a contractor and small business owner, no one’s coming to save me. It’s up to me to ensure I have a steady flow of work and can walk away from situations that don’t feel right. Over the years, I’ve built systems to ensure I never take financial stability for granted.
This year, I’m rethinking my approach. I’m not applying for gigs through job boards or chasing opportunities on social media. Instead, I’ll focus on strategies that reflect my expertise, highlight what I bring, and attract clients who value my skills. No more LinkedIn, no more Zip Recruiter, and no more Indeed. We all deserve more respect as job-seekers.
LinkedIn has evolved into a weird version of Facebook. It’s a joke. When I log in, I see about a hundred ads for some influencer's money-making courses. Do I sound bitter? Good. I am a little. There's nothing wrong with that. In 2021, I’m going to stop expecting to be respected by employers; I’m going to demand it, And I hope you all do, too. All the best this year. Check out some content I’m currently working on.