u/AnyAgent251

Hey everyone,
I was laid off around 3 weeks back and honestly feeling a bit confused about what direction to take next. I have ~5 years of experience and have worked across frontend, backend, databases, and observability.

My stack includes:

MERN Stack
Python
PostgreSQL
MongoDB

I’m also good with DSA and have worked on full-stack systems end-to-end. I even have a reference/recommendation letter from my previous company, but despite applying regularly, I’m barely getting interview calls.

Now I’m wondering what I should focus on next:

Continue doubling down on backend/full-stack + DSA and keep applying
Switch towards AI engineering/LLM apps for the next 2 months and learn deeply from resources like: https://aiengineeringfromscratch.com/
Consider doing a Master’s degree
Something else entirely?

Would genuinely appreciate guidance from people who’ve been through layoffs or hiring recently.
Is the market just bad right now, or do I need to pivot my skillset?

Thanks in advance 🙏

Hello everyone,

I was recently impacted by a restructuring and laid off during my probation period at a marketplace startup. I do have a reference letter from the company.

I’m currently looking for new opportunities in Full Stack / Backend Engineering roles. I have \~5 years of experience building end-to-end products across frontend, backend, cloud, and observability.

Tech stack: TypeScript, Node.js, Python, React, GraphQL, AWS, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, Docker, microservices (open to learning any stack needed).

I’ve worked on scalable systems, APIs, performance optimization, integrations, and product development from idea to production.

Any suggestions on how to apply theres very less job openings plus not getting screening call.

YOE: \~5

Current TC: 0 (actively available)

Thank you.

Should I pivot to AI engineering or stay in full-stack/backend?