Staying Positive Through the Job Search: My Journey After a Demotion

In December 2024, I faced a tough decision that would significantly impact my career: after being unemployed for eight months, I accepted a job with a $30K salary cut and a title demotion from director to specialist. This choice was not made lightly; I did it to regain stability in my professional life and way to reconnect with society after losing my son. While it felt like a significant setback, I believe it was necessary and has taught me important lessons about resilience and the importance of never settling, even in tough times.

Now, I am actively seeking a new role that aligns better with my career aspirations. My goal is to find a six-figure salary position that offers fully remote work, complete with all necessary equipment and flexible time off. I value solid, reasonably priced medical benefits and prefer a role free from micromanagement, ideally reporting directly to senior leadership. If the company offers shares, that would be a fantastic bonus! While I’m open to some travel, I want to avoid the extensive travel demands my current job requires.

However, navigating this job search has presented unique challenges. After self-demoting, I’ve found that getting an interview has become increasingly difficult. Recruiters and hiring managers often view this as a red flag, interpreting it as a sign of weakness or lack of ambition. The stigma surrounding a self-demotion can weigh heavily on a job seeker, and I’ve faced my fair share of discouragement when my applications go unanswered or when the responses lean towards the “we’ve passed on you” emails.

Despite these obstacles, I refuse to give up. I have dedicated my life, family time with my kids, and so much more to build my 20-year career, and I’m determined to find a position where my skills and creativity are valued. I’m looking for a creative role that allows me to work on diverse events instead of merely replicating the same event in different locations. It’s crucial for me to thrive in a supportive, collaborative culture where professionalism and maturity are prioritized, steering clear of the high school dynamics often found in workplaces.

To stay focused during my job search, I apply for positions three times a week, targeting roles that meet at least 70% of my criteria. While I would love to find a job that checks all the boxes, I recognize the importance of being realistic. I want that dream position, but I understand that aiming for a role that fulfills 7 out of 10 wishes is better than settling for one that barely meets 5.

I’m concentrating on actions within my control, such as refining my resume, continuously updating my portfolio with each completed project, being active on LinkedIn, and taking online courses to enhance my skills. Each small step feels like a victory, and I remind myself that I still have a job. I know what it’s like to search when there’s nothing on the horizon, so I’m not rushing or feeling desperate. This gratitude keeps me grounded, even on tough days.

While the job search can feel overwhelming, I’m committed to trusting the process. My wish list is long, and finding the right fit may take time, but I believe my hard work and dedication will eventually lead me to the right opportunity. With each application, I remind myself that every setback is just a step toward my next adventure, and I’m excited about what lies ahead. Here’s to staying positive and focused—after all, every search is a step closer to something great!