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From $50K to $106K: How Erica Transformed Her Career and Doubled Her Salary

Writer's picture: Nelly ClaveriaNelly Claveria


Navigating the job market can feel like an uphill battle, especially when you’re making a career transition. For Erica, a California-based journalist who was determined to break into a new industry, this journey required grit, resilience, and the right strategy. Her inspiring story is a testament to perseverance and smart decision-making.


The Starting Point: A Journalist Seeking Change

For years, Erica worked in journalism, a field she loved but one that often came with low-paying roles. Earning between $50K and $55K, she knew her skills were worth more. Living in California, where the cost of living is significantly higher, she realized that staying in her current trajectory wasn’t sustainable.

She began exploring ways to transition out of journalism, searching for experts who understood her unique challenges. That’s when she discovered a specialized career services group.

“I started following people who could help with resumes, but I needed someone who truly understood the transition process from journalism. That’s why I reached out,” Erica shared.

The Strategy: Professional Help and Determination

After connecting with the right career services team, Erica revamped her resume, LinkedIn profile, and cover letter to reflect a skill set suitable for six-figure roles. However, the job search process proved to be time-consuming and exhausting, especially while juggling part-time jobs.

To save time and reduce stress, she outsourced her job applications.

“I needed to take that off my plate because it was just getting too stressful. They helped me apply for jobs, and I started getting interviews,” she explained.

Her efforts paid off quickly. Within a few months, she was receiving multiple interview invites, boosting her confidence with every conversation.


The Breakthrough: A $50K Salary Increase

After months of preparation and interviews, Erica landed a role that doubled her salary, going from $50K to $106K—a $50,000 increase.

“I didn’t think I got the job at first. It had been weeks since the interview, so I started preparing for the next opportunity. But then I got the call, and here we are!”

Her new position included a straightforward interview process: a panel discussion followed by a writing test. Despite facing doubts during the waiting period, she remained optimistic.


Overcoming Challenges: Staying Motivated

The job search wasn’t without its setbacks. Erica spent over a year and a half searching for a new role, with the last six months being the most intense. She often reached the final interview stage, only to be told that the company had chosen an internal candidate.

“There were times I thought, ‘Maybe I’ll just be broke for the rest of my life.’ But being part of supportive communities kept me going.”

She credits her success to staying connected with encouraging groups, having a roommate in a similar situation, and investing in professional help.


Advice for Job Seekers

Erica shared valuable tips for those feeling stuck in their job search:

  1. Find a Supportive Community: Surround yourself with people who understand your struggles and can encourage you. Sometimes family doesn’t get it, but being in a community with others who are also job searching helped me stay motivated,” she said.

  2. Invest in Professional Help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to hire experts for tasks like resume writing or job applications. It took a weight off my shoulders and allowed me to focus on preparing for interviews.”

  3. Be Open to Transition Jobs: It’s okay to accept a role that isn’t your dream job. Use it as a stepping stone to gain experience and position yourself for your next opportunity.

  4. Shift Your Mindset: Believe in your worth and aim for roles that align with your value. Erica’s determination to secure a six-figure salary kept her focused on the bigger picture.


The Takeaway: Persistence Pays Off

Erica’s journey from a $50K journalist role to a $106K mid-level position highlights the power of persistence, community, and professional guidance. Her story is a reminder that with the right support and mindset, it’s possible to achieve life-changing career goals.


If you’re feeling stuck in your job search, take a page from Erica’s playbook: stay determined, seek help, and never underestimate your value.


💡 Text ‘New Job’ to (443) 957-1519 to start your transformation today!

Watch the full testimonial on YouTube @KamaraDaughtry📺 Click here to watch!


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