I Want a F*cking Job
I Want a F*cking Job
Podcast Description
Annoyed by a broken hiring system filled with ATS software, overworked HR staff, and shortsighted hiring managers, "I Want a F*cking Job" is a raw, honest, and straightforward podcast that gives voice to Gen X job seekers facing employment hurdles like erroneous perceptions about salary, skills, and age. IWAFJ features interviews with professionals at the top of their games to demonstrate their value and challenge stereotypes. Highlighting both struggles and successes, we're building a community that advocates for people who just want to f*cking work!
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on themes like overcoming age discrimination in job hunting, leveraging networking strategies, and confronting the challenges of outdated hiring practices. Episodes include satirical takes like Even Batman Can't Get Past Applicant Tracking Systems and insightful interviews such as Networking Your Way Forward featuring Jim Kunkle, which provides practical strategies for Gen X professionals to triumph over common job search difficulties.
Annoyed by a broken hiring system filled with ATS software, overworked HR staff, and shortsighted hiring managers, “I Want a F*cking Job” is a raw, honest, and straightforward podcast that gives voice to Gen X job seekers facing employment hurdles like erroneous perceptions about salary, skills, and age. IWAFJ features interviews with professionals at the top of their games to demonstrate their value and challenge stereotypes. Highlighting both struggles and successes, we’re building a community that advocates for people who just want to f*cking work!
In this compelling episode, Mike interviews Jean Hale about her experience losing a vice president position at a point in her career when she thought she’d reached the peak. Jean candidly shares the emotional and practical challenges of job hunting after 50, describing the initial shock as “a physical and emotional gut punch” and discussing the isolation many feel during this process. She reveals her journey from devastation to finding meaningful work in higher education fundraising, explaining how she leveraged her network, evaluated organizational culture during interviews, and ultimately found a position that aligns with her values. The conversation offers both practical job search strategies and emotional support while challenging employers to reconsider hiring practices that might overlook experienced professionals.
Key Takeaways:
- Job loss can feel isolating because people hesitate to discuss it openly, fearing others will assume they did something wrong
- Well-intentioned comments like “you’ll find something” or “take time to pursue your passions” often aren’t helpful to someone worried about financial stability
- When interviewing, ask specific questions about organizational culture to determine if the workplace will be a good fit for your values
- Both job seekers and employers should challenge their assumptions—experienced professionals bring valuable perspectives even when their career paths aren’t linear
- The experience of job loss can ultimately lead to greater self-awareness, compassion, and finding work better aligned with your values
Disclaimer
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