First, I wasn't surprised by my LR nor am I bitter. We all know Cisco is a cost-manager first and foremost, and there is still so much that can (and will) be cut from Cisco (and every other large tech co).
I actually applied to some internal roles, mostly for yucks. One HR screen for an SRE position but it was clear they really just wanted someone cheap and low-skill. Hard to get excited about anything internal when you know how Cisco is run.
Otherwise it is quite brutal out there. The traditional job search (resume, apply, interview, offer) is completely over-saturated and time-consuming. I don't think Cisco on my resume is seen as good or bad...it is a name people have heard of but doesn't impress like a FAANG. So you can't expect to get a pass based on your experience.
Interview prep and tech screens are much more absurdly difficult than anytime I can remember. I feel like I am cramming for the SAT. Problem is, every day I spend prepping is another day lost to other things I could be doing. The opportunity cost feels high.
On top of all of this, I have noticed an undeniable trend - declining published salaries ranges.
Companies know this is a buyer's market and are flipping the table on candidates.
I feel really bad for candidates who need $$$ to pay bills ASAP. I wonder how many will just drop out of tech.
As for me, I am going to be an entrepreneur out of necessity. I feel like I am in a su---r's game and I am just wasting week after week chasing what shouldn't be an impossible dream - a moderately decent job in my field - but it is what it is.