In today’s tight job market, it can be challenging to know how to navigate the current environment. In an article on Yahoo Finance, they write, “It’s a complicated time to be a job seeker. With rising costs due to inflation, many are seeking new, better-paying jobs. But at the same time, a looming recession is leading to fears that a new position could be cut shortly after you’re hired.” Here are some tips for job seekers to keep in mind…
Emphasize Networking
Leaning on your network is going to be one of the best ways to find a new role in a tight job market. In an article on LinkedIn, they write, “Networking is a crucial component of any job search, particularly during times of economic uncertainty. By reaching out to your professional and personal network, you can expand your job search and potentially uncover new job opportunities. Don’t be afraid to let people know that you are job searching and ask if they have any leads or referrals. Attending career fairs and industry events is another great way to connect with people in your desired field and learn about job openings. When networking, be sure to have a clear and concise elevator pitch about your skills and experience and don’t forget to follow up with your contacts after your initial meeting.”
Stay Informed
It’s smart to keep track of industry news, trends, and developments to have a better understanding of what skills are in demand. Knowing this can help you tailor your resume, or even consider seeking out certifications or trainings, that would benefit your career. Some of the resources you can check out to find industry news and trends include websites like Forbes as well as checking open jobs on sites like CareerBuilder, LinkedIn, Indeed, and Monster. Additionally, speaking to a local recruiter can be a helpful resource and offer more insider knowledge on what you can expect in your local job market for your skill set.
Be Patient and Resilient
When it comes to job searching, it’s key is to stay positive and patient. Focus on the things you can control and work a little every day towards your goal. It’s important too though to make time for self-care and spending time with loved ones. If you run yourself into the ground spending all of your time looking for a job, you may feel depleted and resentful which can come across in future interviews, so be prepared that finding a new job will likely take time. In an article on Forbes, they write, “The adage “your new job is to find a job” absolutely applies, however the critical caveat is that you’re now your own boss, and you get to set the hours and location for this new job. Once you’re into the rhythm of your job search (leveraging the tools that make sense in your industry, but at a minimum setting alerts on job boards to serve you all new relevant postings every 24hrs) you can realistically get all of your daily tasks completed within a 90-minute window. Whether you get your applications, networking and any interviews done in one sitting, or broken up into smaller chunks, do not allow yourself to spend the whole day doom-scrolling LinkedIn. Being caught up in a layoff is almost never desirable, but one of the small silver linings is the gift of time. Try to avoid squandering that time and confine your job search activity to finite windows, then use the rest of the day to pursue activities you typically wouldn’t have time for.”