Agile Unemployment: Normalizing the Way We Talk About Being Out of Work

Recovering from Underemployment: A Strategic Guide

Episode 87: Underemployment Decoded 💼🕵️‍♀️
Episode Snapshot 📸
Title: Underemployment: The Hidden Career Trap You Need to Avoid
Host: Sabina Sulat
Duration: 32 minutes
Release Date: March 25, 2024
Episode Description 📝
Are you working below your true potential? This week, we're diving deep into the world of underemployment—a career challenge that's silently sabotaging professional growth for millions.
🚨 What You'll Learn:
The REAL definition of underemployment
Why smart companies are losing top talent
Strategies to avoid career quicksand
How to recognize and escape underemployment traps
Key Takeaways 🔑
22% of American workers are currently underemployed
Overqualified doesn't mean over-valuable
Your career is a marathon, not a sprint
Confidence is your most powerful job search tool
Shocking Stat of the Week 📊
22% of workers are currently in jobs below their skill level. Are you one of them?
Hashtags to Share 🏷️
#CareerStrategy #ProfessionalGrowth #JobSearch #WorkplaceTips #CareerAdvice #Underemployment #ProfessionalDevelopment
Listener Challenge 💪
This week's challenge: Review your current role. Are you truly utilizing your full potential?
📌 Action Items:
Update your resume with strategic language
Create a "success journal"
Network at your true professional level
Quote of the Episode 💬
"Your value as a professional isn't determined by your current employment status. It's built on your cumulative experience, skills, and the impact you've made throughout your career." - Sabina Sulat
Coming Later This Week 🔮
Sneak Peek: Why Employers Love Underemploying Their Staff 
Connect with Sabina 🌐
🎧 Subscribe to Agile Unemployment Podcast
💼 LinkedIn: Sabina Sulat, Employment Expert and Unemployment Influencer
Listener Love ❤️
Review of the Week: "Finally, a podcast that tells it like it is! Sabina cuts through the BS and gives real, actionable career advice." - CareerWarrior23
 
Call to Action 🚀
Don't miss another episode! Subscribe, rate, and review the Agile Unemployment Podcast. Your career transformation starts here!
Listen Now on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Disclaimer: All advice is for informational purposes. Individual career paths vary.
 

Re: Channeling Anger in Unemployment

Episode Summary
In today's raw and honest episode, we explore the role of anger in the unemployment journey - how to acknowledge it, process it healthily, and ultimately channel it into productive action. Our conversation offers both emotional validation and practical coping strategies. #AngerManagement #CareerTransition
Key Moments
Discussion of the natural anger response to job loss and why it's completely valid 😤
Identifying the stages of grief in unemployment and how anger fits into the process #EmotionalJourney
Healthy vs. unhealthy expressions of work-related anger and resentment 🔄
Practical techniques for managing anger during the job search #CopingStrategies
How channeling anger constructively can become fuel for positive change ✨
Takeaways
Why suppressing anger during unemployment can be counterproductive
Techniques for processing anger without burning professional bridges #ProfessionalRelationships
The connection between anger, self-worth, and career identity 💭
How embracing and transforming anger can lead to greater career clarity
Call to Action
If you're struggling with anger during your unemployment journey, remember: you're not alone. Join our LinkedIn group to connect with others who understand. And don't forget to download our free 'Emotional First Aid Kit' PDF from our website. If today's episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need to hear it – sometimes the simple act of knowing others feel the same way can be incredibly healing." #ReachOut #CommunitySupport
Resources
Visit our LinkedIn group "Agile Unemployment Community" for:
Monthly virtual support circles 👥
Recommended readings on emotional regulation during career transitions 📚
Free anger management worksheets specifically designed for job seekers 📝
Meditation and mindfulness exercises for job search stress relief 🧘‍♀️
Connect With Us
Share your experience with anger during unemployment or questions for future episodes! #AgileUnemployment #CareerJourney #EmotionalWellbeing

Re: Charting Your Career- From Public Service to Private Sector Success

🎙 Re: Charting Your Career- From Public Service to Private Sector Success
Episode Description:
🚨 Federal employees—this one’s for you. Whether you've been impacted by recent job cuts, are feeling uncertain in your current role, or are just starting to explore what’s next, this episode of Agile Unemployment will help you navigate the journey from public service to private sector success.
💼 I’ve made this transition myself, and I know the emotional and professional challenges it brings. But I also know this move can be a powerful opportunity—not a setback.
In this episode, we’ll cover:
✅ Why the public-to-private shift is an opportunity to grow✅ What makes private sector culture, performance, and leadership so different✅ How to translate your federal skills and experience into business language✅ What recruiters really value in former federal employees✅ The emotional impact of federal job loss—and how to move forward with confidence✅ Real-world tips, do’s and don’ts, and how to own your transition story
✨ You don’t need to change who you are—you just need to reframe how you think of yourself and your skills. .
 
🎧 Tune in now to learn how to make this shift with strategy, purpose, and optimism.
 
🔗 Mentioned in this episode:
Federal job transition trends
Matrixed leadership explained
Tips for reframing your resume and branding
How long-term thinking can be a strength in the private sector
Emotional strategies for rebuilding confidence
💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Have questions or want support on your own transition?
👉 Connect with me on LinkedIn👉 Join our Monthly Agile Unemployment Community Calls👉 Visit the private Agile Unemployment group on LinkedIn or reworkingworks.com to learn more
 
#AgileUnemployment #CareerTransition #PublicToPrivate #FederalEmployees #JobSearchSupport #FromFederalToFuture  #PrivateSectorSuccess

Regain Control: Immediate Steps for Federal Employees Facing Job Insecurity or Job Loss

🎙️ Agile Unemployment Podcast – Special Episode
Regain Control: Immediate Steps for Federal Employees Facing Job Insecurity or Job Loss
🚨 Federal employees, facing uncertainty in your job?
Feeling overwhelmed by potential layoffs, budget cuts, or reorgs?
You’re not alone, and you are not powerless. In this episode, I’m giving you practical, immediate steps to regain control, rethink your options, and take charge of your career—whether inside or outside the government.
🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode:
✔ Why This Feels So Disruptive – Your job is more than just work; it’s a mission. Let’s talk about why these changes hit hard and how to move forward.
✔ Regaining Control Over Your Career – You may not control government decisions, but you CAN control your response.
✔ Skill Audit & Career Translation – Your experience is valuable beyond the federal system—learn how to reframe your expertise for new opportunities.
✔ Updating Your Resume & LinkedIn – Essential updates even if you’re not actively job searching.
✔ Exploring Internal & External Opportunities – From detail assignments to private sector pivots, find new career paths before they find you.
✔ Mindset Shift: Seeing Opportunity in Uncertainty – Stop asking, "Why is this happening to me?" and start asking, "What is this making possible for me?"
🎬 Take Action This Week:
💡 Choose ONE small step to build momentum—update LinkedIn, connect with someone outside your agency, explore job descriptions, or list your top skills.
💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! If you need guidance or support, reach out—I’m here to help.
📢 If this episode helped you, share it with a colleague or friend who might need it too!
#AgileUnemployment #FederalEmployees #CareerChange #JobSecurity #FederalLayoffs #GovernmentShutdown #GovernmentCareers #USAGov #FederalWorkers #GovernmentEmployees #YouAreNotAlone
 

Reframe: Shifting Fear into Empowerment While Out of Work

🎙️ Agile Unemployment Podcast: Episode Title - "Re:Framing: Shifting Fear into Empowerment While Unemployed" 🎙️
📝 Episode Summary:
In this episode of Agile Unemployment, Sabina helps listeners prevent fear from being the obstacle in their unemployment to being a valuable motivational hack by teaching you how to reframe that fear into a tool for growth and action. By the end of this episode, you’ll feel empowered to take control, stop negative self-talk, and turn obstacles into opportunities. 💪✨
🔑 Key Takeaways:
🚨 Recognize Fear Without Letting It Paralyze You:
Fear is natural, but it doesn’t have to control your job search. Understand the triggers and confront them head-on.
🧠 Reframe Your Mindset:
Learn how to view fear as a sign of growth. Instead of seeing rejection as failure, think of it as feedback guiding you to better opportunities.
🌱 Take Small, Fear-Facing Actions Daily:
Every step matters. From updating your LinkedIn bio to reaching out to new contacts, small wins build confidence over time.
📢 Self-Talk and Affirmations Matter:
Replace "I’m not good enough" with "I’m learning, evolving, and improving every day." Words shape outcomes!
🎯 Stay Focused on Your Bigger Purpose:
Remind yourself why you’re pursuing this next step in your career. Purpose helps you push past discomfort.
💬 Sabina’s Advice:"Fear can either be a wall or a stepping stone. Your job is to decide which it will be. Shift the narrative, and you’ll be amazed at how resilient you are." 🌟
🎉 Giveaway Reminder:Three lucky listeners will win free coaching or a resume review—make sure to enter by Friday, February 7th by reaching out to Sabina on Linkedin (see link below)!
💬 Listener Question of the Episode:“What’s one fear holding you back from making progress in your job search today? Share it with us on social media using the hashtag #ReframeFear 🚀”
🔥 Actionable Challenge:Take 10 minutes today to write down one fear related to your job search and a small action you can take to confront it. 💡
🔗 Connect with Sabina Sulat:
Website
Message Sabina on LinkedIn 
✨ Don’t Forget to Share!📣 Share your favorite quote or takeaway using #AgileUnemployment and #ReframeFear to inspire others.
#AgileUnemployment #CareerPodcast #JobSearchPodcast #JobSearchJourney#UnemployedNotDefeated #FearlessMindset #GrowthMindset#StayMotivated  #ResilientYou

Revealing Bold Employment Predictions for 2025 and Beyond

In this episode, Sabina Sulat dives into key trends that are reshaping the way we work and look for work. From hybrid models to AI and skills-based hiring, the workplace is transforming faster than ever. Here’s what to expect and how to adapt:
🔑 Key Predictions for 2025
Hybrid Work Becomes the Norm 🌐
Flexible work models will be standard.
Fully remote roles might decline slightly as organizations seek balance.
New tech will enhance inclusivity and productivity for hybrid teams.
AI and Automation Revolutionize Jobs 🤖
AI will handle repetitive tasks, freeing humans for strategic and creative roles.
Upskilling in areas like data analysis and ethical AI will be essential for job seekers.
Skills-Based Hiring Takes Over 🎓
Employers will value demonstrated skills and projects over traditional degrees.
Portfolios and micro-credentials will become critical tools for job applications.
The Rise of Portfolio Careers 💼
More professionals will explore multiple income streams (consulting, freelancing, side gigs).
Companies may offer part-time or fractional roles to attract talent.
Well-Being Takes Center Stage 🌱
Mental health and wellness programs will be a priority for employers.
Initiatives like shorter workweeks and unlimited PTO will help combat burnout.
🧠 Tech-Driven Job Search
AI-powered platforms will provide personalized job opportunities.
Blockchain could be used to verify credentials and work history, ensuring trust and transparency.
🌍 The Global Talent Pool
Geographic boundaries will blur, with companies hiring from anywhere.
Cross-cultural collaboration skills will be essential for success.
✍️ Employees Owning Their IP
Professionals will demand contracts that let them retain ownership of personal projects.
Companies need to redefine their IP policies to respect boundaries while protecting their interests.
📌 How to Stay Ahead
Upskill Regularly 🧑‍🎓 – Invest in future-proof skills.
Embrace Technology 💻 – Get familiar with AI tools to enhance your job search.
Focus on Adaptability 🌟 – Stay resilient and open to change.
Network Globally 🌏 – Build connections across borders for diverse opportunities.
Advocate for Yourself 🗣️ – Ask about wellness, hybrid options, and DEI during interviews.
Protect Your IP ✍️ – Review contracts and document personal projects carefully.
Final Thoughts
The workplace is evolving at lightning speed, but with the right mindset and tools, you can navigate these changes and thrive. Whether you're looking for your next role or preparing for the future, these trends offer opportunities to grow and succeed.
✨ Let’s shape the future of work together!
Stay connected!📧 Email Sabina at ssulat@reworkingworks.com🌐 Visit ReWorkingWorks.com🔗 Connect on LinkedIn
Share This Episode!
📣 #FutureOfWork #AgileUnemployment #CareerGrowth #AIJobs #RemoteWork #HybridWork #JobSearchTips #PortfolioCareers #EmployeeWellness

Reminiscing About Agile Unemployment 2024 and Looking Ahead to 2025

 
🎙️ Agile Unemployment Podcast: Reflecting on 2024 & Looking Ahead 🎙️
As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve been on together. In this episode, I take a deep dive into:
🔄 A Look Back at 2024
Key milestones for Agile Unemployment and the community we’ve built.
The biggest trends I’ve seen in unemployment and job searching throughout the year.
Insights into how these trends shaped the way I serve this amazing community.
🔍 What’s Next?
My vision for Agile Unemployment in 2025 and how I plan to expand our resources and support.
A closer look at the current unemployment landscape—what’s happening now and what it means for job seekers.
Predictions for the future: How hiring trends and the employment market might evolve in the coming months.
📊 2024 Unemployment & Employment Summary
Key highlights from the past year: shifts in hiring practices, the rise of remote work, and the evolving role of AI and technology in the job market.
The importance of adaptability and resilience in navigating these changes.
✨ Whether you’re currently job searching, looking to grow in your career, or supporting someone in their journey, this episode offers valuable takeaways to help you thrive.
🎧 Tune in now to reflect, learn, and prepare for what’s next!
👉 
#AgileUnemployment #JobSearchTrends #Employment2024 #CareerGrowth #UnemploymentSupport #Adaptability #Resilience #FutureOfWork

Reclaiming HR: Combining Humanity and Knowledge for Better Business Decisions with Lotus Buckner, Author of The Joy of HR

 
🎙️ Podcast Notes: Agile Unemployment 🎧
 
In this episode, I sit down with the delightful and knowledgeable Lotus Buckner, author of The Joy of HR: Elevating HR's Role as a Trusted Partner. 🌟
What We Cover:
✅ The Real Role of HR in Separations and Hiring:Spoiler Alert: HR doesn’t have as much power as you think. Lotus and I pull back the curtain on HR’s involvement in these decisions and where the real power lies.
✅ Why Leaders Need to Partner with HR:HR isn’t just paperwork and compliance—it’s an invaluable resource for faster and better-informed decisions. Lotus shares insights on how leadership can transform their decision-making by truly collaborating with HR. 🤝
✅ Empathy and Humanity in Unemployment:Losing a job is tough, but HR can play a key role in bringing compassion and dignity to the process. We talk about what employees need to know if they ever find themselves in this unfortunate position and how HR can support them. ❤️
This is an important and insightful conversation for leaders, employees, and anyone navigating today’s workforce challenges. Trust me—you don’t want to miss it!
 
✨ Key Takeaways:1️⃣ HR is often seen as all-powerful, but decisions are rarely theirs alone.2️⃣ Partnering with HR brings clarity, strategy, and speed to leadership decisions.3️⃣ Empathy in unemployment matters—it’s not just about ending a job but how you treat people in the process.
Let’s shift the narrative on HR together. 🚀
🎙️ About Our Guest:
Lotus Buckner is a trusted HR leader, author, and advocate for transforming HR’s role from tactical to strategic, with a focus on adding joy and humanity to workplace processes. 🌿
💬 Join the Conversation:
What are your thoughts on HR’s role in hiring and separations? Share your takeaways in the comments below! ⬇️
 
#AgileUnemployment #TheJoyOfHR #HRLeadership #JobLossSupport #EmpathyInHR #FutureOfWork #CareerInsights #PodcastEpisode
🎧 Subscribe and Listen: Don’t miss out on future episodes as we explore what’s next in careers, leadership, and workplace transformation.

Repelling the Shame Monster: Finding the Confidence to Move Forward in Your Job Search

In this episode of Agile Unemployment, we tackle the powerful and often overwhelming "Shame Monster" 🐉 that creeps into our lives when we’re out of work. Shame can block the path to a brighter future, but the good news is—you have the power to fight back! 💪✨
🧠 Key Takeaways: Understanding Shame and Its Impact
What is Shame?
Shame is a deeply personal feeling of inadequacy that grows in the shadows of unemployment.
It often leads to isolation, procrastination, and negative self-talk.
How Shame Holds Us Back
Prevents us from networking or reaching out.
Keeps us from believing we’re worthy of opportunities.
Clouds judgment and creativity during the job search process.
🌟 Proven Steps to Defeat the Shame Monster
Identify Your Triggers 🛑
Journal moments when shame strikes.
Awareness is the first step toward change.
Practice Self-Compassion 🤗
Replace self-criticism with kind, encouraging words.
Remember, you’re not alone—many face unemployment at some point in their lives.
Set Micro-Goals 📋
Break big tasks into small, manageable steps.
Celebrate even the tiniest wins!
Reconnect with Your Values 💡
Reflect on what truly matters to you.
Align your job search with your personal and professional values.
Engage in Esteem-Building Activities 🎨📖🏋️‍♀️
Try creative hobbies, exercise, or volunteer work.
Boosts confidence and helps you rediscover purpose.
🔑 Tools and Resources to Help You Thrive
Daily affirmations 🗣️
Networking tips and tricks 🤝
Worksheets to uncover your mission and vision 📝
💬 Favorite Quote from the Episode
"Shame is a lie that tries to keep you small. By taking steps to address it, you can reclaim your sense of self and move forward." 🌞✨
💡 Your Action Plan for the Week
Challenge: Write down 3 qualities you’re proud of and reflect on how they make you valuable.
Activity: Share one positive update about your job search (big or small) with a friend or online community.
🎁 Free Resources
Don’t forget to download the Shame-Busting Toolkit—packed with journaling prompts, affirmations, and action steps to keep the "Shame Monster" at bay.
📢 Let’s Connect!
Share your thoughts, struggles, or victories with us on social media.
Tag @AgileUnemployment and use the hashtags:
#DefeatShameMonster
#JobSearchJourney
#AgileUnemployment
#GrowYourConfidence
🎧 Listen Now and take the first step toward overcoming shame and reclaiming your future! ✨
 

Reflect and Reset: Ending the Year with Purpose

Join me, Sabina Sulat, on the latest episode of the Agile Unemployment Podcast as we close out the year with reflections, updates, and actionable career advice. Whether you're job-seeking, transitioning, or simply planning your next career move, this episode is for YOU! 💼💡
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
🌟 Reflections:
Key questions to ask yourself:
What will you do differently in your next job?
How can you hold yourself and others accountable?
What lessons can you carry forward?
💡 Differentiating Intent vs. Behavior:
Intent alone isn’t enough! Learn how small, intentional actions can recalibrate your goals and align with your values.
🚀 Updates on Agile Unemployment Initiatives:
Recap of our first live stream: Engaging discussions, new tools, and trends in unemployment.
Insights on our 20-day job challenge: There’s still time to join and take action!
🎯 Actionable Career Planning:
Steps to define your goals, focus on job applications, tailor interview strategies, and reflect on progress.
Why You Should Listen
This isn’t just about reflecting on the past; it’s about gearing up for an intentional, fulfilling future. 🌟 Whether you’re ready for a career pivot or seeking growth in your current role, this episode is packed with strategies to help you thrive in 2025.
Join the Conversation
💬 Let’s connect! Share your reflections, goals, or key takeaways from the episode in the comments.🌐 Request to join the Agile Unemployment LinkedIn Group – a private, supportive space for insights, networking, and exclusive resources.
📢 Don’t forget to share with anyone who could benefit from a little career inspiration as we end the year strong!
#AgileUnemployment #CareerPlanning #JobSearch #IntentionalLiving #YearEndReflection
💪 Let’s make 2025 your best year yet! 🚀