Finding a job in NYC feels impossible

I just moved back to New York about 6 months ago. I lived here as a child so I don’t have much of a network here, aside from some old family friends. I have applied to over ONE THOUSAND jobs in the past few months and haven’t even been contacted for an interview. I am 30 years old and I am looking for work in hospitality, general labor (painting, carpentry, etc), and customer service. I have worked many video/photo production jobs in Los Angeles ranging from PA, prop master, set dresser, scenic, and carpenter and am having trouble getting my foot in the door there as expected, but I am being patient as I know those jobs can be especially competitive here. I am seeking any advice on how to find work here, preferably work that pays above minimum wage. I’m curious if anyone has had luck outside of applying online, since that’s where most of my applications are being filed. I’ve tried almost every job hunting app and I’m starting to lose hope. I have resorted to door dashing in manhattan where I’m only making $30 a day at the most, and I’m not sure I’ll be able to make it here at this point. I am a hard worker, with lots of experience that can be transferable to many careers, but I’m starting to feel like a waste of space in this city with no prospects.

Posted Aug 7, 2025, 12:49 AM UTC

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