Tag Archives: Job Search Strategies

Practical methods and approaches for finding employment effectively.

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#54 Using AI as a career coach to discover your professional future

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I want to keep this post brief and share the key insights without wasting anyone’s time with a story that isn’t necessary. I’ll just say that the tip I’m sharing is a prompt I created by feeding perplexity.ai some questions related to my CV, future career steps, closing learning gaps based on market trends, and my current skills.

At the moment, I have a stable position where I work mainly in German and French. I love languages, and especially German has been quite a barrier to get past for a long time, so it’s pretty dope that I get paid to keep speaking German and improving my skill daily! Also, after spending almost the whole of 2024 unemployed, I can only be grateful for my current professional situation.

Of course, I have ambitious plans for my future. As someone with insatiable curiosity who is always learning, I’m constantly considering my next steps. That’s why I asked Perplexity to analyze my CV and give me some tips on career advancement, learning new skills, and planning a shift in my professional life. I also believe this prompt could be useful to those aiming at getting back to work after a period of unemployment.

Anyway, enough introduction! I wrote much more than intended. Here are some of the most effective prompts for supporting career development when someone provides their CV, along with examples for planning next steps, recommending relevant courses, suggesting career transitions, and outlining practical steps.

1. Assessment & Goal Clarification

“Using my CV and current role as context, identify the responsibilities, skills, and behaviors where I consistently perform at a high level. Then highlight tasks, environments, or role expectations that appear misaligned with my strengths, energy, or long-term career goals, and explain why.”

2. Gap Analysis & Skill Mapping

“Based on my professional experience and the roles or industries I’m targeting (e.g., XYZ), map my existing technical and soft skills against common job requirements. Clearly identify skill gaps, emerging competencies, or experience areas I currently lack, and prioritize them by importance and market demand.”

3. Targeted Course & Certification Recommendations

“Taking into account my background, transferable skills, and target roles, recommend specific skills, certifications, or learning paths that would most improve my chances of securing interviews. For each recommendation, explain why it matters and whether it’s best suited for short-term impact or long-term career growth.”

4. Career Shift & Adjacent Role Discovery

“Review my past roles, cross-functional projects, and side responsibilities to identify patterns that suggest potential career pivots or adjacent roles (such as project management, training, content strategy, localization, or translation management). For each possible direction, explain which past experiences support the transition.”

5. Actionable Career Planning (90-Day Plan)

“Create a realistic 90-day career action plan tailored to my goals. The plan should include:
• Specific résumé or LinkedIn improvements
• Weekly or monthly networking objectives (with examples of who to contact and why)
• Recommended courses or skill-building activities
• Clear milestones to track progress and adjust strategy”

6. Industry & Role Exploration

“Based on current job market trends, identify roles closely aligned with my experience that show strong growth or resilience. For each role, outline typical entry requirements, key skills, salary range (if relevant), and realistic steps I would need to take to transition into it.”

7. Reflection, Motivation & Career Fit

“Analyze what appears to motivate me most professionally—such as problem-solving, helping others, creative work, autonomy, or working with technology—based on my career history and preferences. Then suggest career directions or role types that align strongly with these motivators and explain why they would be a good fit.”

    Best Practices for Using These Prompts

    • Balance objective analysis with personal intent
    • Focus on actionable, short-term outcomes
    • Define measurable success criteria
    • Revisit and iterate regularly
    • Use prompts as decision support, not absolutes

    These prompts create a structure that helps you assess your present position, recognize growth areas, and build a plan that includes upskilling and networking, ultimately increasing the likelihood of successful career transitions.

    I would suggest printing your results and going with the flow, seeing how it works for you, and eventually make adjustments to align with your goals and current circumstances.

    Last update 30.01.2026

    #10 Repeated career attempts

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    (Average Reading Time: 4 minutes)

    A month ago, I visited the Deutsche Kinemathek in Berlin with my girlfriend. As we wandered through captivating installations that depicted the history of German cinema, nostalgia crept in. I found myself reflecting on my bachelor’s studies in cinema—my attempts at directing short films, acting, writing screenplays, and so on. The feelings were pleasant at first, but soon I began ruminating on the trajectory of my professional life. I had moved from one job title to another, often viewing these shifts through a harsh, judgmental lens rather than appreciating them as part of my journey.

    Instead of recognizing the value I brought to each role—my professional approach, strong work ethic, and endless curiosity—I focused on what I perceived as missteps. I overlooked the fact that I had become a content expert with a proven track record in customer satisfaction. That, in itself, is a significant achievement. It means I know my strengths and where I can contribute most effectively.

    What I realized is that this way of thinking is common, perhaps even ingrained. After all, we set goals for ourselves and strive for continuous improvement. When we look back, we want to see a clear path of progress, not stagnation—or worse, regression. But here’s the crucial question: Is this need for progress real, or is it a projection of unrealistic societal values that have crept into our everyday thinking? I believe it’s the latter.

    The pursuit of a “great” career, or simply a career, often masks a deeper need for stability—a need that is entirely human. But when this desire for stability becomes an obsession, to the point where we resent the ups and downs that shape our lives and define who we are, then there’s something wrong with the narrative we’ve internalized. This narrative, fueled by Western ideals of ambition and extraordinary achievements, often overlooks the importance of community, teamwork, self-compassion, and acceptance.

    I belive that self-compassion and acceptance, especially, are qualities we need to remind ourselves of constantly. Research shows that they are key to building resilience, reducing stress, and safeguarding our mental health.

    In the end, our careers aren’t always linear paths with clear milestones of success. They are filled with twists, turns, and moments of uncertainty. What truly matters is not how precisely we follow a predefined route, but how we adapt, learn, and grow along the way. By embracing self-compassion and accepting where we are—rather than constantly chasing where we think we should be—we give ourselves the freedom to explore new opportunities, evolve with our experiences, and build resilience. It’s in this acceptance that we find true empowerment, allowing us to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace, confidence, and a deeper sense of purpose.

    #9 A job market transformation – Part 2

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    Not the best time to move to Germany

    There are many aspects to consider before moving to a new country or city. Right now, though, the list goes beyond the usual considerations like culture, language, lifestyle expectations, or city appeal. We are undergoing powerful transitions in society, technology, and geopolitics that could reshape our perception of the world for a long time. And it’s not just individuals who need to adapt; families, institutions, communities, and companies must also come to terms with what is happening now and what these changes will bring.

    Leaving aside the topic of artificial intelligence—which is already having a major impact in ways we can hardly predict—there are other significant forces at play. For instance, there is a noticeable shift toward more conservative and right-wing policies, which are changing how societies think about immigration. In recent years, there was a wave of solidarity and openness toward migrants, but now a more pragmatic and less tolerant narrative is gaining ground. It’s happening so quickly that even people who previously found this kind of mindset unthinkable are now aligning with it.

    Further challenges lie ahead

    Wars are breaking out in various regions, directly threatening Europe’s stability. The conflict in Ukraine has already had far-reaching consequences, with economic sanctions, energy crises, and shifting military strategies impacting countries across the continent. Meanwhile, China’s booming exports of electric vehicles are challenging Germany’s longstanding dominance in the automotive industry, sending shockwaves throughout Europe. The country that once set the benchmark for car manufacturing is now grappling with the pressure to innovate and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.

    These developments stir up fear, and fear often leads to a desire for strong leadership. This dynamic can pave the way for leaders who use nationalism and populist rhetoric to appeal to people’s insecurities. When a society starts to retreat into itself, valuing national pride over openness, the consequences can ripple through everyday life, influencing social interactions, job opportunities, and even cultural trends.

    Here in Berlin, for example, I’ve noticed a shift toward a more conservative mindset. While there are still job opportunities, they are increasingly more accessible to locals or, at the very least, to those who speak the language fluently. The city’s diverse and international reputation is still alive, but the job market is no longer as accommodating to newcomers who lack strong German language skills. As companies face economic uncertainties, they prioritize candidates who can quickly integrate into the workplace culture and communicate seamlessly with customers and colleagues.

    Moreover, the country’s economy is struggling to regain its footing amid global challenges. The energy crisis sparked by the war in Ukraine, combined with the disruption of the automotive industry by Chinese competitors, is creating a perfect storm of economic pressure. Inflation remains a concern, with rising living costs eroding the quality of life for many residents. For those considering a move to Germany, especially without a clear professional path or language skills, this might not be the best time to take the leap.

    Germany’s situation serves as a reminder that the global landscape is shifting. What was once a relatively predictable place for career growth and stability is now part of a broader trend toward economic protectionism and social conservatism. The conditions that made it an attractive destination are changing, and anyone contemplating relocation should weigh these factors carefully.

    It is important to acknowledge the complexity of this topic, as there are many other historical, economic, and social dynamics that I have not addressed here. This post is not an attempt to exhaust the subject but rather a personal reflection to make sense of what’s going on in these uncertain times.

    To be continued.

    #7 Going through the stages of a layoff

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    Going through a layoff for the first time

    As I wait to start my new job role at the beginning of next month, I can’t help but reflect on what brought me here: the layoffs at my previous company. It’s a frustrating topic—especially as layoffs have been an unfortunate trend this year too—but one worth sharing. Many professionals are currently going through the same experience, and I hope this reflection might help someone navigate their own journey.

    Experiencing layoffs for the first time can be overwhelming. The emotions that come with it—shock, frustration, even shame—are intense. Looking back, I realize that if someone had told me what lay ahead, I might have reacted more positively (or maybe not, who knows!). But one thing I’m sure of is that, if I had to go through it again (which I hope I don’t), I’d handle it better, thanks to the lessons I’ve learned.

    Here are the stages I went through, from the moment I received the bad news to the moment I landed another job.

    The shock

    I had a sense that something was coming at my company, but I didn’t expect it to hit me. Just weeks before, I’d joined a new team with the prospect of being promoted to lead the content internationalisation efforts. It was a challenging time—my manager was on maternity leave, and the workload had increased. The team was struggling, morale was low, and I was left to figure things out on my own.

    But that’s where I thrive. I love high-pressure situations. Just as I started to get a handle on my new responsibilities, I received an email: a sudden 15-minute all-hands meeting scheduled for Monday. It felt suspicious. We had just acquired a competitor, so nobody expected layoffs. But I did. Company communication had been poor for months, with leadership throwing out vague praise like, “You’re all in the driver’s seat!” despite the bad numbers and other red flags that were as obvious as a summer sun.

    When the CEO and founder announced that 20% of the workforce would be laid off, we were all stunned. They said we’d know who was affected within 30 minutes. It was one of the longest half-hours of my life, but deep down, I knew I would be on the list. And I was right.

    Anger, hurt, and feeling lost

    The email arrived, confirming what I feared. I felt angry, hurt, and, most of all, lost. It was a shock that hit me harder than most life events—on par with moments like the covid lockdowns or the loss of a loved one. Working in an almost fully remote team made it worse. There was no office to gather in, no teammates to share a drink with after a devastating day. My company accounts were shut down immediately, leaving me isolated. I felt ashamed, even though there was no reason to feel that way.

    The loneliness of remote work and my sense of disconnection, reminding me of my childhood years, when I first moved to Italy and struggled to adapt to a new culture. The layoff brought back those feelings of being lost and misunderstood.

    Navigating the German job market and filing for unemployment

    Though it was a tough time, I’m grateful that it happened in Germany. The country’s social support system is exceptional. I eventually turned to the Agentur für Arbeit to file for Arbeitslosengeld (unemployment benefits), and while the process involved a lot of paperwork and back-and-forth, I felt supported. They provided clear guidance, and my previous company also did what they could to help us transition. But, at the time, I was too emotionally drained to fully take advantage of those resources.

    Still, Arbeitslosengeld helped me cover my rent and necessities while I regrouped and planned my next steps. For anyone going through a similar situation, I highly recommend contacting the Agentur für Arbeit right away (it must happen within the first three working days following the layoff)—it’s a crucial step in moving forward.

    Seeking distractions while unemployed

    During the summer 2023, I sought distractions wherever I could. I enjoyed what Berlin had to offer: spending a few weekends at Berghain, attending the Fusion Festival, or just getting lost in the city’s vibrant culture. It was a much-needed escape from the daily grind of rejection emails and fruitless interviews.

    I realised that, sometimes, it’s okay to take a break. Finding balance is key when you’re in such a high-stress situation. The emotional toll can be heavy, and allowing yourself moments of joy can help you stay resilient.

    Rebuilding my job search strategy

    After a few months, I had to face reality and reconstruct a proper structure for my job search. I overhauled my CV, updated my LinkedIn profile, and reached out to my network. It was a repetitive, exhausting process—applying for jobs, going through endless interviews, and then never hearing back from recruiters.

    But I didn’t give up. I also took the opportunity to improve my German, enrolling in a courses, workshops and other professional activities. It helped me feel productive and gave me the confidence to apply for roles that required a higher level of language proficiency.

    The lucky breakthrough

    And then, when I least expected it, I received the call. A new job offer! It’s funny how that works. After months of feeling stuck and discouraged, everything turned around in a single phone call.

    Looking back, I see that the job search is like planting seeds—you never know when or where they’ll sprout, but persistence pays off in the end. If you’re currently in this stage, know that your lucky break might be just around the corner, even though it might feel that way.

    #2 Saving energy while job searching

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    The harsh reality of layoffs

    In my early days as a professional, working summer gigs as a student, I didn’t have to look for a job—jobs came my way. First, I worked in the family business, then for a family friend, and later for a friend of a friend, and so on.
    When I decided to move abroad, leaving Italy for Spain without a secure job, I was scared, but I knew everything would be okay. I was a fresh graduate with over ten years of working experience in hospitality and fluent in three languages—I had set myself up for a solid career start. In fact, everything went smoothly, and my experiences were amazing. I worked on great products, for companies with cultures and values that resonated with me, surrounded by colleagues far smarter than I was. As a result, I learned a ton in a very short time.
    So, when I found myself caught in a layoff last year, I was confident I would find another job relatively quickly. I considered that this time might be a little trickier, given the global crises, but I never imagined that one year later—after nearly three hundred applications and several interviews—I would still be unemployed.

    Common patterns during the job search process

    Speaking with friends, former colleagues, and acquaintances who have gone through similar situations, we recognized a few common patterns during unemployment. First, it’s a process with clear phases. Second, you learn a lot. Third, after doing it wrong for a while, you start doing it right, getting more callbacks, interviews, and hopefully, at some point, landing a job.
    However, there’s something I learned recently that would have helped me a lot in the early stages of this process—especially in preserving my mental health and stamina. That lesson is to calm down, temper my enthusiasm, and accept that setbacks are part of the journey.
    Whenever I had a job interview lined up, I would overreact, get very excited about the company, dive headfirst into preparation, and visualize amazing outcomes for myself. I’m not saying this is wrong—it’s actually very good, especially when it’s a genuine reaction. My enthusiasm helped me navigate interviews effortlessly, without anxiety, and with tons of motivation and passion. But it also meant that rejections hurt more. Every rejection spiraled me into endless doubts about my skills, personality, qualifications, and experience.

    Lessons in endurance while job hunting

    Now, I’m trying to approach things more coolly, keeping it real, avoiding daydreaming about future scenarios, and not taking outcomes as rejections of who I am. Because the truth is, with every setback, we learn something. We get better, more comfortable with the uncertainties and challenges of being unemployed.
    Job searching is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s important to approach the process with a balance of enthusiasm and realism, conserving our energy for the long haul. By accepting that setbacks are inevitable and focusing on what we can learn from each experience, we preserve our mental well-being and stay motivated for the opportunities ahead. After all, finding a job isn’t just about landing the right position; it’s also about becoming more resilient and prepared for whatever comes your way.