Unemployment has been steadily creeping up over the last two years, with many corporate and tech companies limiting their hiring and conducting layoffs. As a result, many people find themselves either seriously underemployed or unable to find an opportunity.
Unfortunately, this job market has also left job seekers vulnerable to scams or companies with predatory practices. When someone puts up an “open to work” banner on LinkedIn, they are flooded with comments and offers from résumé writers, career coaches, companies offering AI services, and more.
There are other job seekers who struggle to navigate job searching because, after months or even years of unemployment, the expense of childcare or transportation can be a barrier for them.
But here’s the truth: You do not need to spend any money to land a job. As a recruiter, I suggest the following free resources and services to job seekers.
Job seekers can gain access to free transportation and clothing
For those struggling with transportation, Lyft offers a free program to provide transportation to and from interviews, and even to your first few weeks on the job.
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If you’re unsure of what to wear to an interview or your new job, nonprofits like Dress for Success, Career Gear, and your local Goodwill offer free clothing. There are lots of local nonprofits that offer similar services.
Beyond clothing, Goodwill is an incredible resource for job seekers, with many offering career centers where job seekers can get everything from bus vouchers or gas cards to feedback on their résumés.
Career coaching doesn’t have to cost
While you will find no shortage of résumé writers and career coaches selling their services for hundreds or thousands of dollars, you can also get completely free support.
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The nonprofit Pay Forward Coaching will pair you with a career coach or recruiting professional for a complimentary coaching call. Additionally, they have a Slack channel where you can receive support from coaches and other job seekers.
Never Search Alone is another organization that will pair you with a team of job seekers in your field so you can support each other through your job search.
Careeronestop.org is sponsored by the US Department of Labor and has resources for job seekers ranging from résumé advice and templates to tools for navigating specific challenges, such as job hunting as an immigrant or re-entering the workforce after spending time in the justice system.
Organizations provide a wide range of job search help
For immigrants, Upwardly Global is another nonprofit that offers a wide range of free support, including career coaching, courses to develop in-demand skills, and job placement support. Mid-career professionals, on the other hand, can lean on the Rework America Alliance for similar resources to support upskilling and navigating a job search.
Another organization that can provide resources for a wide range of needs is 211.org. Its services include resources for food, childcare, and healthcare needs.
Don’t underestimate the importance of community during the job search process
Finally, I would encourage job seekers to lean on their local community. Your neighborhood Facebook group could be a great place to connect with others who are searching for work. You can build relationships and support one another, whether that’s through transportation, childcare, or identifying other community resources.
Community groups can also be a great way to find additional support from the local community. Some of the examples I’ve seen include:
Dry cleaners that offer to clean interview clothes for free.Restaurants that will offer meals for families who are unemployed.Assistance with meals or transportation.And of course, referrals, résumé feedback, and job opportunities.
We all need support sometimes
In the US, independence is ingrained in us, and many of us may find it difficult to ask for help or let our community know when we’re having a hard time. However, there are tons of resources and people around who are ready to help.
Unemployment can be an extremely scary time, but know that you’re not alone.
Bonnie Dilber is the business recruiting team lead at Zapier and regularly shares free updated resources for job seekers here.
