What's the hardest part of job hunting right now, honestly?

[khungho]

Job hunting at the moment and finding it harder than expected — applications seem to vanish without a reply. For those who've been through it recently, what was genuinely the worst part for you? The CV side, knowing where to apply, interviews, or just keeping your head together through the grind? And did anything actually help? Could use the collective MN wisdom.

I put this on AIBU but think it might be good hear too.
Is it different for younger people starting out?

Is it harder to get a job now than it used to be?
I’ve been chatting with a few friends and family recently — some younger (16, 20) and some older — and we were talking about how difficult it seems to be finding work at the moment.
It got me wondering what other people’s experiences are. Has anyone else found it harder to get a job? Do employers get back to you after you apply, and what sort of problems have you come across?

Same. My CV, degree and recent work experience after kids screams public sector. Trying to break into the private sector in time for September.

Plan B - postgrad training programme in social work. Need security.

I work In the nhs and they are currently going thru a restructuring of support functions and basically we all have to apply for our “own”
but “re-branded” jobs.
more of us than jobs
lots of people have been there years so the competition is going to be unpleasant I feel ffs on some comments already.
It’s just a nightmare, but all my friends who are looking for jobs are in the same situation.

I know from when we recruit jobs we’d maybe used to get 5-10 applications for we get absolutely loads and loads now. It’s really tough for candidates these days.

Re branding meaning they’ll give you the same job, same pay but more work and responsibilities? That’s awful.

Christ. I’ll be going back to education at this rate. 😭

Yes basically
less people
more work
same or less money depending on how they’ve regraded them - pay protection for 2-3 years depending on your contract

it’s going to be awful