I have been in the career space for a little while now, right? (Can you believe it's been over a decade?!)
That doesn't make it any easier when the job market takes a header, mass layoffs are the norm and there’s major feelings of scarcity and fear when it comes to job security.
I hope you've managed to get clear on what you want your work to look like this year and are ready to buckle down and get to work to make it happen (yes even in this economy).
If you’re wondering just how to go about that and what you should be doing now to keep your job search moving forward, you’re in luck!
In today’s post, I’m going to cover what has changed, how it affects you, and outline 4 specific things you should do now to move past the fear so you can get that new job you’ve had your eyes on.
Ready? Let's get into new job market trends.
What is the Job Market Update All About?
In case you haven't heard, the recession fears of 2023 led to layoffs and a seemingly tighter than normal job market.
This also means that more folks are taking the forced- opportunity of looking for a new job, to switch fields, roles & even careers.
This change affects everyone in the market, like this:
Those affected by lay-offs need new roles
Those who are unhappy in their roles but employed, are now in competition with the layoffees
Employers who are hiring, now are spoiled for choice
All of this sounds pretty scary right now. Take another moment to scream into the abyss and then realize that all is not lost. Yes, there is more competition and it takes a little longer to get hired.
However, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics there are, on average, 9 MILLION open roles on any given day!!
4 Things You Should Do Now
People like you will always prevail because you proactively get out there and and do your research (like reading this blog post here.)
Here are four ways you can ensure your job search is actually fruitful (with way less frustration).
#1. Ensure You Invest Your Time Where it Matters
If you’re like most people out there, your knee-jerk reaction might be to apply for anything and everything that comes your way. I include me in that too! Before I really became an expert in the career space, I sent out over 100 applications to only get one job offer that I was forced to accept (because rent) and let me tell you that that job ranked as one of my absolute worst.
But when you need (or just want) a new job the act of applying online feels urgent and necessary. Everyone is out there spending time and energy spamming the internet ether with their resume to… crickets.
Instead, I advise you start with a strategic networking plan. One good conversation with the right person is worth 64 resumes sent haphazardly. (I made up that number but you get the idea.)
Your existing network is going to be your golden ticket to a next, new role.
#2. Get Your Materials Prepared
This may be something you don’t want to hear, but yes you need a solid resume, LinkedIn profile and maybe a portfolio website.
However, when someone asks you for these things due to a job opportunity, many tend to panic.
If you have these materials all updated and ready to go, you will be ahead of the game! A prepared candidate is a preferred candidate.
#3. Avoid Relying on Big Job Boards
It's only natural to feel frustrated at the lack of viable job opportunities posted on the big name job boards.
Especially because it can reinforce the feeling that there are just no good jobs out there and make you believe you’ll never be properly employed again.
Nonetheless, there are other spaces out there. Even in great economic times only 20% of roles are ever posted. That’s 80% of goodness that’s hidden.
Let me tell you about my client James. When he was laid off from a long term role he was paralyzed with fear and uncertainty. It had been so long since he’d been job hunting that he had no idea where to start. So he started where most people do, the big job boards.
But there was nothing. Or when there was something that fit his needs and expertise, there were hundreds who had already applied. Luckily James came ot me for help and we created a hyper-focused networking plan for him.
Now, he has a role two-levels up, making more money than before and doing exactly what he wants.
#4. Sign Up For “Strategic Networking: It can actually be fun and easy”
When the job market took a turn last year, I knew I'd need to give my clients a way to adapt quickly.
This workshop will show you all the ins and outs and give you big-time valuable information on how to beat out the competition in an ever-changing job search landscape.
For a limited time, readers of this blog will get 15% off the workshop by using the coupon NEWJOB24 at checkout.
Don't delay because I will be taking down this workshop soon!
Click here to learn more about “Strategic Networking: It can actually be fun and easy”
Conclusion
Have I helped give you a little more hope about your job search? I sure hope so.
I’m all about offering you all the insider info I’ve got so you can find work that works for you.
And because I believe knowledge should never be inaccessible, I want to offer you my workbook “How to Deal With Job Search Overwhelm” for free.
If there's one thing I've learned in all my years in the industry, it’s that you really can do what you want to do (and get paid for it!).
Is your head still swimming with questions? I have a blog post that covers more job search essentials over here and a newsletter packed with free, actionable advice right here.
Remember, I’m available to answer any questions here and on Instagram or TikTok.
(You may even spot me sharing embarrassing stories of what I wanted to be when I grew up including photos!)
I look forward to having you in our career community!
Yours in yes, you can get that gig goodness,
EBS
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EB Sanders | Career Coach for Creative Types
ebs@ebsanders.com
Unsatisfied with your work? Start HERE now!
