We’ve lost count of the frustrating stories we’ve heard from candidates about job searching and interviewing in the last several months. We find ourselves deep in an employer-driven market (see last month’s blog if you’re not familiar), and while it’s not impossible to land a new role, for many job seekers, it feels that way.
We wish that we could tell you that we’ve found the recipe that will make all the pieces fall into place, but unfortunately, that’s just not the case. But, we have all been through an employer-driven market more than once in our careers, and there are a few strategies that seem to help candidates find their next role a little faster.
Network, network, network! In an employer’s market, managers usually have more applicants than they can feasibly interview, and frankly, it can be less time-consuming to focus on interviewing referrals. Over the last few months, it’s been common for candidates to tell us that the majority of their interviews are only coming from companies where they’ve had someone refer them. So our tip? Remember who you know. If you haven’t taken the time in your search, reconnect with former coworkers - direct teammates, colleagues from other departments, former leaders, former clients. Talk about what they’re doing and let them know you’re on the hunt for a new role. Before you ask for a referral or an introduction, ask if there are ways you can support them in their work. Be sure to check in every few weeks so you stay top of mind.
Connect with agency recruiters or other industry professionals. While your already-established network will likely be your best bet for referrals, job opportunities could come from anywhere. Spend time researching staffing agencies and executive recruiting firms that specialize in your area. Find meetups and social events with other industry professionals. The more people you meet, the more likely you are to hear about opportunities with companies that weren’t previously on your radar.
Be open to something different. In a candidate-driven market, candidates have the opportunity to be super picky about where they go. And while you should protect your values and ethics, it’s important to remember that employers have the upper hand and you might have to be adaptable to land your next role. Explore growing industries, like healthcare and construction, or look for roles that leverage your transferable skills. Think about contract or temporary work as a stepping stone to a permanent position.
Keep applying. Rejection is a natural part of the job search process, especially when competition is high, but when you’re on rejection 500, it is incredibly hard not to take it personally. Stay focused on your strengths, skills, and unique qualities that make you valuable to employers, and when you need a mental break, take one. Remember, finding the right job takes time, so celebrate small victories along the way and trust that your perseverance will pay off in the end.
Ask for feedback and practice. If you do land that interview but are rejected, be brave and ask for feedback. While it’s a rare gift that someone will share feedback, it could really help you in your next interview. Listen and practice - you’ll build your confidence, and you’ll be able to show your enthusiasm and initiative better in the next interview.
It seems like every person who lands a new role is finding success in a different way, and there is no secret sauce to finding that next role. If nothing else, staying positive and proactive is critical, and when you do feel down, try to remember that the market will change and you’ll have more opportunities as a job seeker in the future.
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