48% of Job Seekers Are Frustrated. Do These 3 Things if You're 1 of Them

It's a tough time to be looking for work. If you've been having a hard time, here are some different tactics to try.

Though the U.S. economy has not yet fully recovered from the impact of the pandemic, there are still jobs to be had. In fact, in May of 2021, there were 9.2 million job openings, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Still, many job seekers are having a hard time finding the right role in today's market. In fact, in a recent FlexJobs survey, 48% of those looking for work said they're frustrated with the job search process. If you're part of that statistic, here are a few tactics to try.

1. Network like crazy

Spending your days combing through online job listings may only get you so far in finding the right roles to apply for. In addition to that, carve out some time in your schedule to network. Pick up the phone and contact old coworkers. See what they're up to and ask if they can loop you in on any job opportunities they know about.

Then, repeat the process with your friends, former college professors, neighbors, and extended family members. If you can't call everyone you know individually (which, let's face it, is probably the case), craft an email letting your contacts know what sort of role you're looking for and what experience you already have. The key is to reach as many people as possible so they can help you with your job search.

2. Rethink your resume and cover letter

It may be the case that you're looking for a career change. And that's something that could prove quite rewarding. But if your resume and cover letter are geared toward the type of job you used to have (or currently have), then they may not get you in the door at the type of company you want.

If you've been having difficulty with your job search, it may be time to revisit your resume. Take a look and see if the skills you're highlighting match the jobs you're hoping to get. Similarly, if your cover letter is a fairly boilerplate note that talks about what a hard worker you are, crank it up a notch. Go into detail about some of the things you're passionate about. And if you're looking to make a big change, explain why that is.

3. Consider starting your own business

Though there are clearly a lot of open jobs available, that doesn't mean you'll have an easy time finding the specific one you want. But if you know what that role looks like, why not create it yourself?

Say you'd really like to work for a PR firm but none seem to be hiring. If you have the skills, start your own PR business.

Now it may take you some time to build up a client base, and you may need to work a different job temporarily on a part-time basis to generate some earnings. For example, you may need to drive for a ride-hailing company a few hours a day to have some money coming in -- unless you have a healthy savings account you can dip into while you get your business off the ground. The point, though, is that if you're not finding the right opportunities, make them happen yourself.

Finding a new job can be a frustrating experience even in the best of times. If you've been struggling, try changing your approach. It could pave the way to success -- and a rewarding role that you're able to stick with for a long time.