I was a System Administrator for over three years before being laid off just before Christmas after successfully leading an ERP system implementation at my last job. Unfortunately, my contributions went unrecognized, and I received a text on Christmas Eve from the CEO saying the company was shifting directions. Since then, I've applied to between 750 and 1,250 jobs across various roles, including technical support and ERP-related positions, but I'm feeling quite defeated. The job market seems extremely competitive, especially with companies laying off staff and offshoring tech jobs. Is the system administration field saturated? Are entry-level positions still available? I really love tech and don't want to leave, but I need to make a living. Any suggestions on how to stay in the field or pivot into a different area?
5 Answers
I've been through a similar experience after being let go recently despite having director-level experience. It's frustrating when applications seem to disappear into a black hole. Stay persistent and keep applying—it's not an easy process, but I'm hopeful too. I went through five interviews already and am stepping down to a role that still pays well. Don't lose hope—you'll get there!
The IT job landscape has been challenging for a while. If you haven’t already, consider reaching out to your network for any job leads or opportunities. Personal connections can often lead to hidden job openings.
I’m exploring going back to a trade. I was previously an electrician but am also looking into plumbing. There’s a lot of job security in the trades right now, which seems appealing given the instability in IT.
Consider getting a PMP certification. I started my journey with it and received a promotion shortly after. With your technical background and this certification, you'll stand out more in job applications. A lot of companies are hiring project managers now, especially those with PMP certification.
The job market is rough right now. Companies are racing to adopt AI tools, which could mean fewer on-site jobs in the future. I recommend targeting a job you genuinely want. Look at the required skills for that position, fill in any gaps in your resume, and apply with a tailored cover letter that uses the job description's keywords. Quality is more important than quantity—focus on a few applications rather than sending out tons of generic ones.
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