Written in the stars: How astrology can boost your job hunt

Did you grow up reading your daily horoscope in the local newspaper? A one-sentence blurb, offering a high-level glimpse into your week to come, based on the day you were born. Fast-forward to today, astrology isn’t as straightforward, and anyone with a social media account knows it’s evolved far beyond a loose prediction of luck or misfortune into a full-on guide on how to navigate life. According to a 2024 study from EduBirdie, nearly 60% of young Americans read their horoscopes weekly, with 72% using astrology to guide significant life choices. On top of that, 63% say astrology has positively influenced their careers.

Could it really be that your ideal career path is written in the stars? Not explicitly, but there could be something to using astrology as a tool in your job hunt. To find out more, we connected with Josephine Corcoran—a career coach who blends astrology and positive psychology to create personalized programs, workshops, and online courses that transform individuals and teams. Here’s what she had to share about each of the signs, and how better understanding yours can help shape your job search and professional growth.

Quick note: There are many astrological aspects that define your chart

Many people only know their sun sign—the zodiac sign linked to your date of birth. Your sun sign represents your core identity, but by understanding your full astrological chart, you get a more complete picture.

Corcoran highlights that other placements such as your Midheaven, which represents your career and public image, and the Nodes, which touch on your life purpose and karmic lessons, can offer deeper guidance in navigating your professional path.

If you’re interested in knowing your full birth chart, check out a site like Cafe Astrology for a full view of your astrological profile, including planetary positions and aspects.

Job hunting tips for water signs: The intuitive ones

The water signs—Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces—naturally possess traits such as introspection, emotional intelligence, and creativity, meaning they should step into roles that harness their depth, sensitivity, and connection. Here’s how each water sign can approach their job search, along with the kinds of roles that are likely to most resonate with them.

Cancer: The Nurturer

Cancers are known for their caring, empathetic nature. While they can present a ‘hard’ exterior similar to a crab, the animal that represents them, they’ll do best in workplaces where they feel safe to expose their ‘softer’ interior. “When I work with leaders with a Cancer sun, they often prioritize taking care of their team—almost like a parent would,” Corcoran explains, noting Cancer’s connection to home and family. “They want the best for their team, are emotionally engaged, and genuinely care about how they feel.”

Cancers are also creative. “Cancers are intrinsically motivated to bring ideas to life,” Corcoran adds. “If they can’t initiate and execute something meaningful, they may feel disconnected from their work.” Because of this, careers in psychology, human resources, or any role involving guiding and supporting others can be ideal for Cancer signs, allowing them to combine their emotional intelligence with a drive for big-picture success.

How a Cancer might approach their job hunt: Tailoring the colors and fonts on their cover letter and resume to reflect the company’s branding.

Scorpio: The Transformer

Scorpios bring intensity and focus to their work. Corcoran uses a river as a metaphor to describe Scorpio’s watery nature: “Rivers run deep and stay the course,” she says, highlighting a Scorpio’s depth and commitment to their work.

This steadfast nature makes Scorpios a match for careers involving research, project management, or transformative processes. Their connection to life’s deeper, darker aspects also makes Scorpios naturally drawn to professions like psychology, criminal justice, or healing practices. “Scorpio enjoys exploring the darker recesses where others may feel uncomfortable going,” Corcoran explains. “Their strength lies in tackling the uncomfortable and bringing truth to light.”

Scorpios also often have a knack for financial matters; their sensing nature helps them to understand the resources needed in order to feel safe. Scorpios may take this a layer deeper, as per their nature, to understand how to stretch money further. “They’re good at managing assets, so you’ll often see them in investment organizations,” Corcoran notes.

How a Scorpio might approach their job hunt: Applying to organizations where they’ve already identified an issue, and outlining their plan to fix it.

Pisces: The Dreamer

Pisces is the last of the twelve signs of the zodiac and is often perceived as the most evolved sign. Corcoran describes Pisces as “the advanced spiritual ones who understand everything is interconnected.” With vivid imaginations, Pisces often have an ability to see things that others cannot. “Pisces energy is very strongly connected to the film and television world,” Corcoran points out, highlighting their talent for visual arts, storytelling, and design. “I associate Pisces with a dreamer who can imagine new realities,” she adds.

Despite their dreamy reputation, Pisces can also surprise people with their ambition and unspoken knowledge. “They can have a wisdom about them that is lifetimes ahead of other people,” Corcoran observes. This combination of sensitivity and strategic thinking enables Pisces signs to navigate complex professional environments with both grace and insight. They should look for jobs that give them the opportunity to execute their visions.

How a Pisces might approach their job hunt: A vision board of images representing what they see themselves manifesting in their career.

Job hunting tips for fire signs: The passionate ones

Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius are the three fire signs of the zodiac, known and admired for their energy, enthusiasm, and determination. Their boldness and passion make them stand out in roles that require leadership, fearlessness, and initiative. Here’s how each sign can harness their unique qualities in their job search and find a career that fuels their fire.

Aries: The Trailblazer

As the first sign of the zodiac, Aries is marked by a sense of ‘newness’ that makes them excited and eager to take on new growth opportunities. With a competitive drive and natural leadership abilities, Aries should look for roles that will allow them to take charge and innovate.

“Aries needs autonomy,” says Corcoran. “They’re happiest when working in roles that challenge them or give them a sense of achievement.” This makes them geared towards careers in entrepreneurship, sales, sports, or startups. Anything with a competitive edge, quick pivots, and a fast pace will resonate with Aries’ energy.

Aries should also focus on positions that will value their assertiveness and risk-taking abilities, reward quick decision-making, and encourage leadership development. “Aries needs stretch goals and the freedom to make things happen. That independence and freedom to pursue their ambitions is essential,” Corcoran adds.

How an Aries might approach their job hunt: A 30-second video of a sales pitch … on themselves.

Leo: The Leader

Leos are the Lions of the zodiac, represented by the sun. They’re natural-born leaders who shine brightest when they’re in the spotlight. With charisma and confidence, Leos are made for careers in entertainment, marketing, or management. “Leos are very much about building a legacy,” Corcoran explains. “They want to be recognized for their contributions, and they’re at their best in environments where they can express themselves creatively.”

Leos should seek opportunities that allow them to take ownership of their projects. While their drive for recognition is strong, their warmth and leadership skills also inspire others, and they love an audience. “Whatever a Leo is doing professionally, they need to be inspiring others,” says Corcoran. “There’s also entrepreneurial energy associated with Leo. They need a reason—a purpose—and something to show for it.”

How a Leo might approach their job hunt: Instead of a cover letter and resume, sharing an immaculately designed personal website showcasing all their accomplishments.

Sagittarius: The Explorer

If travel and adventure were defined by a zodiac sign, it would be Sagittarius. “Think of Sagittarius as the raging bushfire,” Corcoran explains. “It will go one way or another, depending on where the wind’s blowing.”

Careers in education, travel, publishing, or international relations align with a Sagittarian’s love for curiosity and discovery, or any role that lets them expand their horizons—intellectually, geographically, or both. “Sagittarius yearns to seek new information, travel, and be inspired by different cultures,” Corcoran points out. “They want to understand the meaning of life by exploring how others live and share that knowledge.”

Corcoran credits Sagittarius with a unique ability to guide people, making teaching or management great career paths. “They are often the way-showers, lighting the path for their team and saying, ‘Here’s what’s possible for you.’”

How a Sagittarius might approach their job hunt: Getting ahead of a request for references by sharing quotes of all the positive things their former colleagues have had to say about them.

Job hunting tips for air signs: The intellectual ones

Next up are the air signs: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. This group represents the thinkers and communicators of the zodiac. Their adaptability, curiosity, and innovative mindset lend well to roles that require critical thinking and collaboration. By harnessing these qualities, air signs can channel their natural intellectual talents into a fulfilling career search.

Gemini: The Communicator

If you can go toe-to-toe with literally anyone in fruitful or complicated discussions, you might just be a Gemini. Geminis typically thrive in fast-paced environments that require adaptability and razor-sharp communication skills. Known for their curiosity and wit, they are drawn to careers in journalism, public relations, teaching, or technology. “Geminis love to wear multiple hats and keep their minds stimulated,” Corcoran says. “They’re amazing multi-taskers and dot-joiners.”

For Geminis to have a fulfilling career, they need the chance to learn something new every day to keep their hungry minds happy. “A Gemini can get bored easily because they’re very intellectual and grasp things quickly,” Corcoran shares. Essentially, a Gemini can succeed in any job they focus their attention on; it’s just a matter of what will hold their interest the longest.

How a Gemini might approach their job hunt: Leveraging their network by setting up weekly video meetings with people in roles that intrigue them.

Libra: The Diplomat

Represented by the scales, Libras embody balance, using their calm demeanor to unite people and resolve conflicts. As natural-born mediators, they’re here to collaborate and ensure equality.

A Libra’s sharp sense of justice makes them well-suited for careers in law, human resources, or diplomacy, where they can navigate complex social dynamics. “Libras are about finding solutions that work for everyone,” Corcoran explains. “They gather facts, listen to different parties, and seek a happy medium.”

Libras should focus their job search on positions that allow them to build relationships and create order, such as roles that require negotiation, conflict resolution, facilitating cooperation, and helping others find common ground. In doing so, Libras also leverage their talent for creating beauty through harmony. “Libras have a keen eye for beauty,” Corcoran adds, “Whether it’s designing a stunning space or restoring peace in chaotic environments.”

How a Libra might approach their job hunt: Suggesting a meeting at a beautiful local coffee shop to discuss their candidacy in person after sending their cover letter and resume.

Aquarius: The Visionary

For forward-thinking Aquarians, the more obscure, the better when it comes to their careers. Lovers of humanity and anything that challenges the status quo, Aquarians drive innovation and societal progress, often drawn to careers in technology, social activism, science, or startups. “Aquarius is about revolutionizing the system. They see what’s not working and come up with innovative solutions to change it,” Corcoran explains.

To satisfy their non-normie ways, Aquarians should seek positions that provide the freedom to experiment and push boundaries. “Aquarians need space; they don’t want to be micromanaged or told what to do,” Corcoran says. However, while they’re masters of working autonomously, they’re always keeping the greater good in mind. “Aquarians believe everyone deserves to be treated equally and to express their unique, authentic selves. There’s often a strong desire to help others or be part of something bigger in a collective environment,” she adds.

How an Aquarius might approach their job hunt: Seeking out emerging startups in Series A funding and creating their own job title to pitch.

Job hunting tips for earth signs: The grounded ones

The strong-and-steady earth signs—Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn—are practical, grounded, and dependable. Possessing a strong work ethic and attention to detail, earth signs will often opt for roles that require structure and stability—and are in it for the long run. Confidence and clarity are crucial aspects of an earth sign’s job hunt, and here’s why.

Taurus: The Builder

Strong like the bull that represents them, Taureans are known for their reliability and determination. Corcoran notes, “Taurus is very strongly connected to the economy and finance; there are many Taureans in these sectors because Taurus is patient and willing to work methodically toward their goals.” As such, those with strong Taurus energy might gravitate toward more ‘traditional’ work institutions like banking, government, or agriculture. But it’s not all about business for Taurus. Like Libra, the sign is ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty and the senses. “You’ll often see Taureans in the design world or in tactile healing professions, such as massage,” Corcoran adds.

The key thing to know about Taurus is that whatever they do, they’re in it for the long haul. “The main quality of a Taurus is determination and a willingness to stick with something for a long time,” Corcoran explains. “Taurus is about building something tangible and lasting.”

How a Taurus might approach their job hunt: Exploring new opportunities within their current organization before applying elsewhere.

Virgo: The Perfectionist

Virgo, represented by the Virgin, is the only female sign in the zodiac, embodying qualities of care, organization, and healing—all of which require incredible attention to detail. Because of these traits, Virgos should seek roles that demand precision, efficiency, and understanding systems. Paired with their naturally analytical mindset, they might gravitate towards careers in healthcare, holistic practices, research, or data analysis. As Corcoran explains it, “Virgos are happiest when they’re improving systems or helping others. The intrinsic drive in Virgo energy is to organize, systematize, and make things more efficient to restore wholeness.”

Once they’ve put a system in place, however, there needs to be a new challenge to keep a Virgo motivated. “Virgos need regular stimulation; they get bored when something is not challenging enough,” Corcoran says. So Virgos, take note: the future evolution of your next job is just as crucial as the role you’re applying to today.

How a Virgo might approach their job hunt: Creating a meticulous list of their job criteria and applying only to positions that meet those exact requirements.

Capricorn: The Strategist

If the zodiac had a CEO, it would be Capricorn—an ambitious and disciplined sign with a strong long-term vision. “Capricorn energy is all about strategy, patience, and achieving tangible results. They’re natural big-picture thinkers who execute plans and take responsibility for their goals,” Corcoran explains. Driven by resilience and practicality, Capricorns often gravitate toward careers in business, law, engineering, or government.

Job-hunting Capricorns should focus on opportunities that align with their desire for structure, advancement, and a high-level mindset. “Capricorn loves a strategy and thinking about how they’ll execute it,” Corcoran notes. Despite being the most career-driven sign, Capricorns also need to ensure they don’t overdo it and take time to recharge. “Capricorns are naturally introverted. They can be out in the world doing their thing, but they need time to recuperate and regather their energy,” she adds.

How a Capricorn might approach their job hunt: Doing a deep dive on the long-term growth trajectory at a company and how long it will take them to get to the top.

Key takeaways: How to job hunt based on your star sign

You can’t predict the future or know whether a job will be the one of your dreams until you’re in it. However, astrology can help you conduct a little “self-check” to assess whether your job prospect is a good fit. Here are the main things to keep in mind when using astrology during your job hunt.

• Understand your full chart: Your sun sign is just the start. For a deeper understanding of your career path, look at your complete birth chart. Aspects like your Midheaven (the sign that oversees your public persona and career direction) and the Nodes (your soul’s purpose and growth) can help provide more clarity.
• Lean into what makes you unique: Whether you’re a fire, earth, air, or water sign, astrology can offer a new perspective on your strengths and preferences in the workplace. Embrace what makes you, you, instead of trying to force yourself into roles and titles that don’t align with what you value in your career.
• Know thyself: Ultimately, you are the expert on your career journey. Astrology is just one tool to consider when job hunting. While it can highlight patterns, personality traits, and tendencies, remember to also prioritize your personal experiences, goals, and values. Your intuition and lived experiences will always provide the most accurate roadmap for your career path, so trust your instincts!

Photo: Welcome to the Jungle

Follow Welcome to the Jungle on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter to get our latest articles every week!