Catch More Job Opportunities by Casting a Wide Net, Kali Pauling’s Job Search Success Story

Kali Pauling spent over four weeks looking for a new job, and that does not take into consideration the extra month Kali spent submitting additional application requirements. Instead of getting stuck dwelling on missed opportunities, Kali considered every job app and job interview an opportunity for learning and growth. Kali recommends casting a wide net to catch more job opportunities and celebrating the small victories to have a more successful job search.

What do you do for a career? Who do you work for?

I work for the City of New Orleans health department. I started as a Healthy Environments Specialist working on various environmental health issues in the city. I am now transferring over to a different program, where I will be focusing specifically on LGBTQ health and sexual reproductive health for young adults. 

How long did it take you to find this job?

I was job searching for over a month to find this job and start the application process, then it took an additional month to complete the needed requirements. It took a lot of time to go through the local government process for being hired, but it worked out in the end! And the transferring roles piece also took some time. 

How did you find your job? What resources did you use? What tool or tactic helped the most?

I used various job search websites. I also went to organizations that I knew I liked to see what openings they might have on their website. I created job application accounts, like with the City of New Orleans and was able to apply for a lot of open positions once I had uploaded all my information. 

What was the most difficult part of your job search? How did you overcome this challenge?

Finding the job was the easy part, but the entire application process was a challenge. It was hard not to get discouraged when I did not hear back, or when I thought an interview went well but still did not get offered the position. But I stuck with it, and enjoyed the small victories. Even if I did not get offered the position, each application and interview was an opportunity for growth. 

What is the single best piece of advice you would offer other job-seekers?

Cast a wide net and go from there, especially if you have less than five years of experience in the field you are applying for, you never know what opportunities will come from it!

Why do you love your job?

Getting to work on so many different projects has been a great experience. I am so glad I get to see the inner workings of government and being a part of the process. I get to engage with community members on a weekly basis. And my coworkers are hardworking and passionate people who create an inviting work space.