Freelancing, Job Hunting & Real Talk About Work-- A May Round-Up From the Nest 

There’s something about May — it feels like a reset. We’re not quite halfway through the year, but it’s far enough along to reflect and realign. Whether you’re freelancing, job hunting, or managing hiring from the other side of the table, this is your reminder: it’s okay to pause, reassess, and move with intention.


In my work — both as a freelance recruiter and as an independent contractor in Talent Acquisition and HR  — I speak to people at all career stages every day. And these conversations often circle back to the same few things: navigating uncertainty, staying grounded, and building something meaningful — whether that’s your career or your team.


So, here’s what’s top of mind for May:
1. For Freelancers: You’re Not “Just” Freelancing
Freelancing is a business, not a hobby, not a placeholder, and definitely not something to apologize for. Whether you’re full-time solo or juggling contract work alongside another role, own your path.


Tip of the month:
Build a habit of marketing your skills even when you’re booked. It doesn’t have to be loud — a simple LinkedIn post about a challenge you solved, or a lesson learned, keeps you visible and valuable.


2. For Job Seekers: You’re Not Behind
The job market ebbs and flows — and so does confidence. If you’re feeling ghosted or burned out, know that you’re not alone.


Reminder:
You don’t need to apply to 100 jobs to get hired. You need to be intentional about where you apply and how you show up in your application. Show them what you bring — not just your job title, but your mindset.
Bonus tip:
Make it easy for recruiters to “see” you in a role. That could be by tailoring your resume, updating your LinkedIn, or sharing a short story in a cover note that shows how you solve problems.


3. For Employers & Hiring Managers: Slow Hiring Hurts Everyone
If you’re struggling to find the “perfect fit,” consider this: sometimes the delay isn’t due to a lack of talent — it’s due to hesitation, too many hands in the process, or unclear expectations.


Friendly nudge:
A thoughtful but responsive hiring process leaves a lasting impression. Even if a candidate doesn’t get the role, how you treated them sticks.


4. For All of Us: Culture Is Built One Interaction at a Time
Culture isn’t perks or policies — it’s how people treat each other when no one’s watching. Whether you’re a freelancer working with a team remotely, or part of a company trying to hire well, culture shows up in the little things.


May mindset shift:
Be the kind of colleague, contractor, or candidate people are relieved to hear from — clear, respectful, and human.


Final Thoughts from the Nest
TLC Recruitment Nest was built with care, not just for the work I do, but for the people I work with. Whether you're navigating a career shift or scaling your team, there's always room to pause and ask: Are we doing this with care and clarity?
Thanks for reading — and if you ever need someone in your corner, you know where to find me🙋‍♀️