Careers at the End of the World: Reimagining Ambition, Work, and Your Job Search in Unprecedented Times

Episode 50: What to Expect if You're Starting Your Job Search Right Now: A Guide for the Employed, Self Employed, and UnemployedIn this episode of 'Careers at the End of the World,' host Jenn Walker Wall discusses the challenges of job searching during a period of economic and political instability (recorded in April 2025). She addresses the wide-reaching impact of layoffs across various industries and offers practical advice for job seekers and potential job seekers. Jenn emphasizes the importance of preparing for an extended job search and considering interim work opportunities. She also highlights the significance of having effective job application materials, leveraging your professional eco-systems, and staying visible and proactive despite the challenging environment.01:14 Challenges in the Job Market04:26 Advice for Active Job Seekers14:42 Advice for Passive Job Seekers19:12 Self-Employed and Freelancers: Navigating the MarketJoin our Retreat Night on 5/6Join our May Job Search Cohort

Is Your Job Search Technical...or Relational?When most people think about job searching, they imagine polishing their resume, tailoring cover letters, and applying to as many jobs as possible. But here’s the thing: that’s just the technical side of the search.In this episode of Careers at the End of the World, we’re digging into what really sets our approach apart—the relational job search. This conversation will help you assess which approach you're using and how to realign your strategy to reflect your values, priorities, and actual goals.Whether you’re just starting your search, feeling stuck in the middle of it, or looking to support your long-term career evolution, this episode offers fresh insight, gentle guidance, and a way forward that doesn’t require you to contort yourself to succeed.🎙️ In this episode, we explore:What defines a technical job search—and why it often leads to burnout.Why the relational approach leads to more authentic, aligned opportunities.How your relationship with yourself, your career, and your community shapes your success.Simple mindset shifts and strategies to bring more clarity, confidence, and connection into your job search.The hidden pitfalls of conventional career advice—and how to reframe networking, interviews, and resumes.✨ Key Takeaways:You’re more than your resume. Build a relationship with your work that honors who you are.Technical strategies matter—but they’re not enough on their own.Authenticity is a job search strategy.Nurturing your professional ecosystem is the new networking.If your job search feels inauthentic, it might be time to shift from performative to purposeful.💬 Episode Quote:"Job searching isn’t just about landing a job. It’s about building a life—and career—you don’t have to contort yourself to fit into."🧭 Ready to shift from a technical to a relational job search?Join the Spring Job Search Cohort or check out our Spring Retreat Night series over on our website. You'll get complimentary access to all 3 Retreat Nights when you sign up for our Community Cohort or any private 1:1 job search strategy services before May 5th!Keywords:job search strategy, relational job search, technical job search, career coaching, resume tips, job interview mindset, professional ecosystem, authentic job search, career alignment, values-driven job search, mission driven professionals, networking for introverts, job search burnout

In this episode of Careers at the End of the World, host Jenn Walker Wall shares a powerful reflection question inspired by the Magician card from the Tarot. Jenn discusses the importance of balance among the four elements—earth, air, water, and fire—in achieving goals, particularly in the context of a job search. Through this metaphor, she emphasizes the need for emotional investment, stability, creative ideas, and actionable energy, and addresses common imbalances. Tune in for insightful advice on taking strategic and consistent action in navigating career challenges.Learn more about Work Wonders CareersFollow Jenn on LinkedIn

Episode 47: Assess Your Job Search Like a Pro: What Kind of Job Search Support Do You Need to Move Forward?In this episode of 'Careers at the End of the World,' host Jenn Walker Wall, founder of Work Wonders Careers, walks job seekers through the importance of assessing their job search strategies. She shares her own assessment process, explaining how identifying tactical bottlenecks can help job seekers select the appropriate next steps for their efforts. Jenn discusses different scenarios job seekers might face, from those needing a simple resume update to individuals struggling with confidence due to toxic work environments. She details various services like resume writing, job search strategy sessions, and interview preparation, while highlighting the importance of tracking job applications and remaining patient and strategic. .00:14 Understanding the Job Search Assessment Process01:29 Identifying Job Search Challenges08:38 Tailoring Your Job Search Strategy13:10 Navigating Job Offers and Interviews24:54 Leveraging Job Search Communities and Resources26:33 Final Thoughts and EncouragementRegister for our Winter Cohort now >>>

Episode 46: Navigating a Long Job Search In Tech: Overcoming a Challenging MarketIn this episode of 'Careers at the End of the World,' host Jenn Walker Wall interviews Work Wonders Careers alum Corey, who shares her job search journey in the *extremely* challenging tech and media markets. Despite the hurdles, including a layoff and graduate school, Corey navigated her focused job search with resilience and strategic networking. They discuss practical strategies like maintaining a job application routine, the value of informational interviews, and the importance of self-care. Corey's story offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone enduring an extended job search. Tune in to hear her tactics, challenges, and ultimate success in landing the right role.00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview01:34 Corey'sJob Search Journey Begins03:47 Navigating Challenges and Strategies06:08 Maintaining Well-being During Job Search11:04 Networking and Informational Interviews24:02 Contract Work27:47 Final Reflections and AdviceADPlistJob Search CouncilWork Wonders Job Search CommunityConnect with Corey on LinkedInConnect with Jenn on LinkedIn

Episode 44: Hot Take: Is the hiring process broken?**Please note: this episode includes strong language!**In this episode of 'Careers at the End of the World,' host Jenn Walker Wall addresses misconceptions around the hiring process, emphasizing that it works as designed to meet employer needs rather than job seeker aspirations. She encourages listeners to focus on elements within their control, build relationships, and contextualize their frustrations as stemming from broader systemic issues, rather than blaming recruiters (and doing so publicly on LinkedIn!). Jenn also discusses the importance of investing energy wisely and invites listeners to connect with her on LinkedIn and join her networking group for further support.00:16 Is the Hiring Process Broken?02:10 The Role of Recruiters03:14 Zooming Out: The Bigger Picture04:21 Contextualizing the Job Search06:37 Managing Expectations and Energy07:55 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement11:04 Conclusion and Call to ActionOur Winter Job Search Cohort is enrolling >>>Our January Retreat Night is 1/28 >>>

Episode 44: My Favorite Job Search Strategy for 2025: Passive Job Searching for (almost) EveryoneIn this episode of 'Careers at the End of the World,' host Jenn Walker Wall delves into her favored job search strategy for 2025: the passive job search. Jenn explains the importance of adapting a passive approach amidst a chaotic and competitive job market and contrasts passive and active job searches, highlighting their similarities and why many people might benefit from a passive strategy in the current environment. The episode also covers the key preparations for a job search and emphasizes quality over quantity when applying for positions. Jenn encourages listeners to view themselves as passive job seekers to navigate the uncertain job market effectively.00:00 Introduction to Careers at the End of the World00:08 The Importance of Job Search Strategies in 202500:50 Reflecting on Past Job Search Advice01:28 Introducing the Passive Job Search Strategy03:15 Active vs. Passive Job Search06:14 Why Passive Job Search Makes Sense Now13:14 Preparing for a Passive Job Search16:30 Conclusion and Next StepsJoin us this month!Join our Mars RetrogradeJoin our Winter Job Search CohortOperationalize your passive job search with these podcast episodes:Episode 13: Cracking the Code: 3 Secrets to Resume SuccessEpisode 20: How to Craft a Plan for Your Job SearchEpisodes 26-28 (More resume and application strategy)Episode 40-41 (Networking/Professional Eco-System)

Episode 43: Why Your Career Needs a Retrograde: Taking Time to Elevate, Optimize, Pivot or Otherwise Align Your CareerIn this episode of 'Careers at the End of the World,' host Jenn Walker Wall welcomes listeners to 2025, emphasizing a thoughtful and reflective approach to the new year. She introduces the concept of using astrological retrogrades to assess and strategize career moves, focusing on themes like slowing down and taking a tactical pause. Jenn also highlights upcoming events, including the Going Retrograde Retreat Night and the winter cohort of the job search community. Join her in this episode for insights into managing career growth sustainably in challenging times.05:12 Reflecting on Career Goals08:01 Understanding Retrogrades and Career Impact11:13 Strategies for Career Optimization15:48 Invitation to Going Retrograde Retreat19:43 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsRegister now for our Going Retrograde Retreat Night

Developing Your Professional Eco System: Feel Good Networking Advice, Part 2In this final episode of the 2024, Careers at the End of the World host Jen Walker Wall reflects on the past year and emphasizes the importance of cultivating a professional ecosystem. Jenn discusses the value of forming meaningful connections and provides practical tips for leveraging tools like LinkedIn for relationship building and career development. She encourages listeners to be proactive in networking, maintain follow-up strategies, and think strategically about their professional contacts. The episode ends with a preview of exciting content planned for the new year.01:46 Envisioning Your Professional Ecosystem03:14 Leveraging LinkedIn for Professional Growth10:56 Proactive vs. Reactive Networking15:20 Follow-Up Strategies and Relationship Building17:53 Relationships as Career Stability

In this episode of 'Careers at the End of the World,' host Jenn Walker Wall shares the importance of building and maintaining a professional ecosystem. Jenn discusses the nuances of networking, distinguishing between large and niche events, and emphasizes the value of creating authentic connections. She shares her personal experiences and offers practical advice on how to effectively navigate professional relationships. She also highlights the importance of making space for these relationships, being consistent, and setting boundaries. She also introduces a proactive approach to networking, stressing the value of investing in people and conversations for long-term career benefits. Stay tuned for next week’s discussion on specific networking tactics and the pros and cons of different strategies.00:50 Personal Networking Journey04:27 Creating Space for Professional Relationships08:04 Commitment to Networking13:28 Networking Strategies and Consistency20:08 Conclusion and Next Steps