The Job Seeking Process is Broken

Finding a job is hard. Not just the act of submitting resumes or preparing for interviews, but the emotional toll, the self-doubt, the endless tailoring of applications, and the persistent question: Am I enough? Like many others, I’ve faced these struggles firsthand.

I’ve always been a hands-on learner. Whether it was mastering customer service as a waitress or tackling challenges in my first internship at a startup, I thrived on figuring things out through experience. But when it came to job hunting, I hit a wall. How do you prove to companies you’re the “go-getter” How do you convey soft skills like resilience, adaptability, and leadership on a resume?

This summer, I applied to countless internships, each with its own unique process. I tailored over 10 resumes and cover letters, but none of it felt genuine. Every rejection, after multiple interviews, after meeting entire teams, left me wondering, Why am I not enough? And honestly, the job-seeking process often feels broken for both sides. Candidates feel unseen, while recruiters sift through piles of  resumes that barely scratch the surface of a person’s potential.

Then, I stumbled upon an opportunity with a startup, a company that understood this struggle. The job posting felt like it was calling my name. I submitted my resume, unaltered this time, and got a callback the next day. What followed was a breath of fresh air: an interview that was more of a conversation. No rehearsed questions like, “Tell me about a time you overcame a challenge.” Instead, they asked, “What gets you going?”

That experience taught me something valuable: authenticity wins. When you’re honest about your skills, your values, and what you’re looking for in a job, the right opportunity will come. You’re not just trying to prove yourself to a company, they’re also proving themselves to you.

That’s why I’m proud to be part of SteppingStone, a company that truly understands the struggles of job seekers. We’re on a mission to redefine hiring by creating meaningful connections between employers and top-tier talent.

What we stand for: It’s not about us, it’s about helping others succeed. We believe in transparency and showing up as our true selves in every interaction. We understand the grind and believe consistent effort leads to success. We commit to making the most of our resources and skills to help both job seekers and employers.

SteppingStone has taught me the system is flawed, but we’re here to bridge the gap. We believe soft skills matter just as much as technical expertise. We value potential, not just experience. And most importantly, we see you!

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