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- Sick of Job Boards? Build Something Instead
Sick of Job Boards? Build Something Instead
Because another resume isn’t the answer. A project is.
Hey builders!
Does this sound familiar?
You refresh the job board. Again. Still nothing worth applying to. Or worse, another “entry-level” job that wants 5 years of experience and a LinkedIn following.
The job market’s broken. But you’re not. And you don’t have to wait around hoping someone “gives you a shot.” You can build your own.
Here’s the truth most people ignore:
The best opportunities don’t come from applying. They come from building.
Here’s what building can look like:
1. Launch a Service
Pick a skill: writing, editing, video, web design, automation, cold outreach.
Package it up. Offer it to creators, startups, or local businesses.
Don’t overthink it. You need 1 client, not 1,000 followers.
2. Start a Niche Media Project
Interview people in a field you care about.
Turn it into a newsletter, YouTube series, or LinkedIn column.
You’ll build a network and authority faster than any job search.
3. Document, Don’t “Create”
Turn your job hunt or skill-building journey into content.
“Week 1 of learning cold email: here’s what worked.”
This positions you as a builder in public — and draws in your tribe.
4. Build a Tiny Product
Not ready to launch a business? No problem.
Make a Notion template. Build a swipe file. Write a short guide.
You’ll learn more in 2 weeks than you would from 20 job applications.
5. Make Noise, Not Requests
Instead of “Hi, I’m looking for opportunities,”
say: “Here’s what I built this week.”
People want to work with creators, not just applicants.
Because here’s the reality:
Nobody’s coming to save you.
But the internet gave you distribution. Tools. Leverage.
You can learn, build, publish, and connect. All for free.
So if job boards are crushing your spirit:
Shut the tab. Start a project.
You’ll learn more. Build faster. And create your own damn luck
Entrepreneur Toolkit: Tools to Power Your Business
1. Carrd – Build a clean, one-page site for your project or service
Whether you’re showcasing a Notion template, launching a landing page, or promoting your freelance offer, Carrd gets you online in minutes.
2. Beehiiv – Launch your own newsletter (without the tech headaches)
Perfect for documenting your journey, publishing interviews, or building an audience around what you’re learning.
3. Gumroad – Sell your first digital product
Notion templates, guides, icon packs, swipe files — anything you make, you can list and sell here. No startup costs, no gatekeeping.
Built Not Hired is built for the modern creator, freelancers, solopreneurs, and builders who want freedom and ownership. If that’s you, pick one idea and run with it.
That’s it for this issue.
Keep building! 🏃♂️💛
Nev Santana
P.S.
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