By Sandi Chriqui Bouhadana
A few months ago, I stepped into a new professional role, unsure if it was the right fit for me. Could I really help others find a new job? Guide them through the complex emotions of losing a career-defining role? Coach them to interview and present themselves with confidence?
As it turns out, I knew more than I gave myself credit for. Having also experienced a layoff after 16 years in the same role, I understood firsthand the uncertainty and self-doubt that comes with such a life change. I spent a year wrestling with questions like, “Who am I without this job? What if no one recognizes my value? Will I ever feel excited about a new role again?”I was told to trust the process, but honestly, the process often felt anything but fair. One thing became clear, though: The perfect job wasn’t going to fall into my lap. I had to create it, manifest it, and believe it was possible.
In my over 25 years of experience in the training and development space for some of the world’s fastest-growing global companies, I’ve gained a deep understanding of how people learn and grow. I’ve honed a talent for recognizing human potential, uncovering stories of achievement, and transforming them into powerful, inspiring communications. This experience has equipped me with the skills needed to truly listen and not judge, meet individuals where they are, and help them overcome the barriers to achieving success.
That journey not only helped me rebuild my own career but also uniquely prepared me to support others in theirs. Along the way, I’ve gained valuable insights for job seekers that I’d like to share.
11 Key Job Search Tips
1. There’s No Such Thing as the Perfect Job
Instead of a perfect job, look for a good-fit job, one that matches your qualifications, skills, and personality. Just like a perfect partner, even the best job will require effort and alignment. When you find the right fit, it becomes your perfect fit over time.
2. Own the Gaps on Your Resume
Don’t overthink the reasons behind career pauses, whether you spent that time searching, pivoting, traveling, or caregiving. Don’t feel ashamed that your resume is missing a date, diploma, employment, or skill. Instead, own the accomplishments you’ve achieved and the value you bring.
3. Getting Laid off Is Not a Stigma Anymore
Being laid off is a normal part of how businesses operate today. Companies restructure, realign, and reinvent themselves all the time. Shift your focus from what you lost to what you’ve learned. Use this opportunity to reflect on the contributions you’ve made and the unique value you’d bring to any organization. Be future-focused.
4. Take Odd Jobs
No work is beneath you. Sometimes, your expertise lies in areas others struggle with. That quirky, unconventional job might lead to unexpected opportunities, or at least give you a great story to tell.
5. Everything Is Temporary
Feelings of doubt, low self-esteem, or low motivation are natural parts of growth. They’ll pass, and you’ll emerge stronger. Have faith.
6. What Got You Here Won’t Get You There
Industries, careers, and companies aren’t static, and you shouldn’t be either. Innovate. Evolve. Adapt. Get new stories. Be interesting. Skill up.
7. Know Your Impact
If you want to stand out, focus on the impact you had in your previous roles. Don’t just list what you did and for how long. Highlight why you were essential in the jobs you’ve held.
8. Lean on a Success Partner
Find someone who knows you well, celebrates your wins, pushes you to move forward, and supports you when things get tough.
9. Show Up as Your Best Self Every Day
Be prepared, stay engaged, and treat every experience with purpose. Even the smallest opportunities can be meaningful.
10. Be Curious, Coachable, and Interested
Do your research but also ask questions. Show genuine interest in the company you’d be working for, the product you’d be selling, and the people you’d be collaborating with.
11. Don’t Believe Everything You Read or Hear
If advice from friends or social media causes you to second guess yourself, tune it out or change your feed. Everyone’s situation is unique, and unsolicited advice can add confusion. Trust yourself and focus on your own path.
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You’re Not Alone in Your Job Search
These insights have become my go-to advice for navigating the ups and downs of a job search. The more people I speak with during their job transitions, the more I realize the common threads in their personal narratives. Many find themselves asking, “Should I pursue a similar job in the same industry, pivot to something new, or consider early retirement?” Being forced to make these decisions often feels scarier than choosing to leave a job by choice. My hope is that my empathetic approach, combined with actionable, practical next steps, creates a formula for success.
Remember losing a job doesn’t erase your accomplishments or define your worth. You already have what it takes to pursue something new, something else, and something better.
About the Author
Sandi Chriqui Bouhadana is a Career Transition Consultant for Lee Hecht Harrison. In 2024, she co-founded a personal growth podcast, Open for Higher, to help inspire people to overcome doubt and aim for higher job satisfaction. Known for her coaching expertise, Sandi has recently expanded her focus to helping individuals communicate with confidence whether on stage, at work, or in interviews. Contact Sandi via her LinkedIn profile.
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