ASK COACH LANI: It’s been a year since I was laid off, and I still don’t have a job offer.

Q: It’s been a year since I was laid off, and I still don’t have a job offer. What should I do?

First, I want you to know that you’re not alone. I’ve worked with many talented professionals who have experienced extended job searches despite strong qualifications. This market has challenged people across industries and experience levels.

That said, after a year, it’s important to pause and evaluate your strategy instead of simply increasing the number of applications.

Start by asking yourself a few honest questions:

• Am I applying for roles that truly align with my experience?
• Does my resume clearly communicate the value I bring?
• Is my LinkedIn profile supporting my job search?
• Am I networking consistently, or relying almost entirely on online applications?
• When I do get interviews, am I converting them into final rounds and offers?

The answers will usually point to where you need to focus.

If you’re not getting interviews, your resume, positioning, or job search strategy may need work. If you’re getting interviews but no offers, it’s probably time to strengthen your interviewing skills and how you communicate your value.

Most importantly, don’t let a long job search convince you that you’ve lost your worth. A delayed offer is not a reflection of your intelligence, experience, or potential. It simply means your current approach may need refinement.

Sometimes one strategic adjustment—a stronger resume, a more focused target, better networking, or improved interview preparation—can completely change your results.

Don’t suffer in silence. Get feedback from someone you trust, invest in your development if needed, and keep moving forward. Your next opportunity isn’t determined by how long you’ve been searching. It’s determined by whether you’re willing to adapt your strategy while staying confident in what you have to offer. For additional tips on how to stand out in today’s job market, check out my YouTube video on Navigating a Frozen Market.