No one wants to hire you. Now what?

You've sent out hundreds of applications. Your GitHub is green with contributions. Your portfolio is polished. Yet, the responses are either silence or rejection. Take a deep breath—this isn't the end of your journey; it's just the beginning of a different path.

The Reality Check

First, know that you're not alone. The tech industry's hiring landscape can be brutal, especially during economic uncertainties. Even experienced developers face rejection. The difference between those who eventually succeed and those who don't isn't just technical skill—it's resilience and strategy.

The Action Plan

1. Transform Rejection into Data

Start treating your job search like a debugging process. Are you getting rejected at the application stage? Your resume might need optimization. Failing technical interviews? Your problem-solving approach might need refinement. Each rejection is a data point—use it.

2. Build While You Wait

Instead of refreshing your email, build something. Create projects that solve real problems. Build a tool that automates a task you hate. Contribute to open source. The goal isn't just to pad your portfolio—it's to maintain momentum and keep learning.

3. Expand Your Network (The Right Way)

Don't just connect on LinkedIn—engage. Share your learning journey. Write technical blogs. Participate in coding communities. Help others. Real networking isn't about collecting connections; it's about building relationships.

4. Consider Alternative Routes

Sometimes, the traditional application process isn't the answer. Consider freelancing to build experience. Look into apprenticeships or internships, even if you've graduated. Join a startup where you can wear multiple hats. Your first job doesn't have to be your dream job—it just needs to be a start.

The Mindset Shift

Stop thinking of yourself as someone who "can't get hired." You're a developer who's building, learning, and growing. The job search is just one project in your portfolio. Like any project, it requires iteration, debugging, and occasional pivots.

Practical Next Steps

The Bottom Line

The tech industry isn't just about code—it's about persistence, problem-solving, and continuous improvement. These are exactly the skills you're building during this challenging time. Keep pushing, keep building, and remember: your worth isn't determined by your employment status.