BIPOC Candidates Are Exhausted

Jessica Williams
3 min readDec 15, 2021
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash

We can’t keep ignoring the bullsh*t! BIPOC job seekers are expected to be the best, say the right things, and have the most innovative ideas at all times. There is rarely any space for error, forgiveness, or acceptance of failure.
If you are a BIPOC candidate this article was created to help you take care of yourself during your job search.

I’m going to share 2 tips that I give to my BIPOC clients who are experiencing that overwhelming chest caving feeling during their job hunt. This job market is hot but it is not for the faint of heart so be prepared to protect your mental health, set your boundaries, and advocate your expectations in the process.

Screenshot the next section.

Tip #1: Be intentional with your time

During your job hunt give yourself a schedule that you can strictly stick to because without it you will drive yourself insane. Applying to new positions all day becomes damaging to your self-esteem, breaks down your courage, and can demolish your self-worth as a professional.

Add Time blocks to your calendar

Break down your search to take up 30 minutes-to-1 hour max

Create your outcomes for each day

Here’s a look at a jobsnatching calendar I created to save time in your day:

Grab the FULL calendar here: Digital Products (jmwcareerconsultant.com)

Tip #2: Say No

Don’t set your expectations to the side just to be shuffled in the deck. You are allowed to turn down interviews, coffee chats, and requests for your resume. Try saying something like this;

“Thank you so much (insert recruiter/hiring managers name) for this opportunity. At this time, I am going to respectfully decline the (interview request, resume review, or calendar invite etc), after doing my research I recognize that this role no longer aligns with my professional goals.

I would love for you to keep me in mind as other roles/opportunities arise with your company.

Kindly,

Insert your first/last name)”

Your rejection can be short, sweet, and remain open for other opportunities. You are not required to accept any and every offer-we are not expected to just take what we can get.

In this ever evolving, unfair, and biased job market be the gem that stands out and stands alone when the process feels tarnished. Feel comfortable speaking up when the interviewing is slanted or there is a lack of follow up. BIPOC candidates you are heavy hitters in this job market, make sure recruiters, hiring managers, and teams feel that.

Thank you for reading, this has been heavily on my mind, and stuck on my heart. Share in the comments if you feel overly exhausted as a BIPOC candidate job hunting in this tipped market. I would love to hear from you.

Don’t be a stranger and connect with me for more career tips, jobsnatching strategies, and resume support: www.linkedin.com/in/jmwcareerconsultant/

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Jessica Williams

Resume finesser, jobsnatcher, and career consultant navigating 13+ years to empower professionals in snatching a seat at the table or breaking it!