Your objective: keep your job search/career strategy F2P as much as you can.

I got a message asking for my recommendation on paid services I’ve used throughout my career such as resume writers, interview prep, and coaches.

Me: I’ve never paid for any of those things, so IDK 🤷🏻‍♀️

Here’s how I’ve been able to stay behind the pay wall:

🎓 University Career Centers
Take advantage of your career centers if you’re in school. Technically you're already paying, so don’t sleep on this resource. They offer resume writing workshops, career counseling, interview prep, or can connect you to organizations, professionals, and other free services for job and career searches.

👩🏻‍🎓 Organizations
I was part of ONE student org during college and attended every event they offered. I got to meet and network with professionals from different industries, got eyes on my resumes from other recruiters, did mock interviews, and eventually landed my internships. I continue to be part of organizations that continue to help elevate my career today through the number of resources that they provide. Organizations can be topic, career, or industry specific.

📚 Libraries and/or Community Centers
Even if you’re not a student, check out your local library or community center. They usually have some hidden gems in the resources they have.

👩🏻‍🏫 Self-learning and research
I Google, a lot.

📱 Social Media
There are still good social media platforms out there that share resources and can get you connected in many ways for your job search or career development. I mean, here we are, right? LinkedIn is a great place for resources and connecting with people who are willing to help freely. I highly recommend the events that are posted on LinkedIn as most are free to attend.

🤝🏼 Networking
Yes I had to go here, but I’d be amiss if I didn’t call this out. The number one way I’ve been able to stay behind the pay wall throughout my career was through meeting people and having conversations. People who are coaches and provide services have actually become my mentors, teachers, colleagues, and even friends. I’m lucky that I get to call or text them if I need.

Now, before I end this post, I have to say there's no negative intent in this post against anyone who does make money from providing these services. Again, I have friends who do these and I completely support their business. I’m just sharing my own experience and also because it’s Monday and I’m not ready to be catty 😂

Okay! Anything else I’m missing? What would you add?