You’ve led teams. Shipped products. Solved complex problems at scale.
But now that you’re job searching — whether actively or quietly — the silence is deafening.
- Applications disappear into black holes
- Recruiters aren’t responding
- Roles feel misaligned or scarce
If you’re wondering “Is it just me?” It’s not.
Even the most experienced senior and executive-level technical professionals are feeling it.
The market is slower. Budgets are tighter. Hiring cycles are longer.
Here’s what no one tells you about job hunting in this kind of climate — and how you can navigate it effectively.
1. It’s Not You. It’s the Market.
You didn’t suddenly become less valuable. The market has just become more cautious.
Many companies are scaling back, delaying searches, or quietly freezing roles. That doesn’t mean your experience isn’t needed—it means timing and positioning matter more than ever.
What to do:
- Stay grounded in your value.
- Keep showing up and staying visible.
- Continue planting seeds, even if they take time to grow.
2. Not Every Role is Posted
Internal recruiters are overwhelmed. Some roles are filled through networks or referrals before they ever get published. Others are held back until budgets are finalized.
What to do:
- Reconnect with former colleagues and peers
- Comment on industry-relevant posts to stay visible
- Reach out to hiring leaders or recruiters, even if there isn’t a job posted
You’re not being pushy. You’re staying present.
3. Your Resume Might Be Holding You Back
A lot of resumes from senior-level professionals still focus on tools and tasks. But at this level, companies are looking for strategy, leadership, and impact.
What to do:
- Lead with business outcomes, not job duties
- Showcase the measurable impact you’ve made—revenue, efficiency, scale, performance
- Use clear, focused language that positions you as a strategic leader, not just a contributor
4. Interviews Are Taking Longer and Going Deeper
Hiring managers want to get it right. That means more people involved, more strategic questions, and more scrutiny.
What to do:
- Prepare stories that show how you’ve solved problems, led teams, and influenced change
- Expect questions about ambiguity, prioritization, and stakeholder management
- Focus on outcomes and decision-making, not just technical execution
5. If You Were Laid Off, Own It With Confidence
Layoffs are happening across the board, and most people understand that. It’s not a red flag. But how you talk about it matters.
What to do:
- Acknowledge what happened, then pivot to what you’re looking for next.
- Keep it concise, confident, and future-focused.
Example:
“After a company-wide restructure impacted 20% of the workforce, I took the opportunity to reflect. I’m now looking for a leadership role where I can drive both innovation and team performance.”
6. Stay Active, Even If You’re Not Actively Interviewing
Slower markets can tempt you to hit pause. Don’t.
This is a great time to sharpen your skills and add new value.
What to do:
- Volunteer for a nonprofit tech initiative or contribute to open-source
- Take on fractional or project-based work
- Learn something new—especially in areas like AI strategy, cloud cost optimization, or cybersecurity
These things keep your momentum going and give you fresh stories to tell in interviews.
Final Thoughts
You’re not starting over. You’re realigning.
This is a tough hiring landscape, but it won’t last forever. And the candidates who stay sharp, visible, and confident will be the first ones called when doors start to open again.
P.S.
If you’re a senior tech leader exploring your next move and want a second opinion on your resume or strategy, I’d be happy to help. Reach out anytime.