I was laid off last year and have only managed to get 1 job interview. I have 20 years of experience and am worried about my future.

Shaun Chavis has applied for tons of jobs since getting laid off.

Courtesy of Shaun Chavis

• Shaun Chavis has 20 years of experience in journalism and communications.
• She has been ghosted by dozens of employers after applying for jobs.
• Rather than continue to be demoralized, she's set up her own Substack consultancy.

This as-told-to-essay is based on a conversation with Shaun Chavis, 58, who is based in Baltimore. It has been edited for length and clarity.

Since being laid off last June...