How to Job Search in Uncertain Times: 6 Tips for Success
Job searching is a stressful and challenging process under any circumstances. But with recession talks ongoing, the banking crisis snowballing, and still-high inflation zapping purchase power (egg prices are up 55% from just a year ago!), adding finding a new job to your to-do list is downright daunting.
Many companies are tightening their belts, cutting large percentages of their workforces and implementing hiring freezes. With all this uncertainty, it may feel impossible to find a job, let alone one aligned with your career goals.
However, it’s important to remember that even in a downturn, companies still need talented individuals to help them weather the storm. Whether or not a full-blown recession happens, it’s a good idea to stay proactive and create a job search plan you can use in any economy.
With the right approach, you can position yourself as a valuable asset to potential employers and land a job that fits your skillset and career aspirations. To give you a head start, we dug into the latest data and insights from expert economists to bring you our top tips for job searching in challenging times.
Refine Your Resume and Cover Letter
You’ve heard it before, but we have to say it again: an accurate and well-written resume and cover letter are vital to your job search success in any economy! These documents shape the first impression you leave potential employers with, so it’s important to make them count.
Make sure your resume is up to date with all your relevant experience, skills, and achievements listed. Highlight any experience or skills that are particularly relevant to the job you’re applying for. Your cover letter should be tailored to the job and company you’re applying to as well, and you should clearly and concisely explain why you’re the best fit for the position.
Keep Your Profiles Polished
Eight people are hired every minute on LinkedIn. Obviously, companies are using online job sites like LinkedIn to search for new talent. As the job market becomes more competitive and job openings become scarcer, having an updated and professional online presence becomes even more crucial. An outdated or unoptimized profile can quickly lead recruiters and hiring managers to overlook your potential.
Make sure to include your most relevant work, education, and volunteer history on your profile. In your experience and skills sections, use keywords relevant to your industry and job function to make it easier for recruiters and hiring managers to find you. If possible, enable LinkedIn’s #OpenToWork feature to let your network know you’re searching for new opportunities.
Not only does updating your profiles attract recruiters, but it also signals you’re actively engaged in your job search. A well-curated online presence that shows off your skills and experience signals you’re a motivated and organized candidate who stands out among the competition.
Lean On Your Network
Networking is always important when job searching but even more so in a recession. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your professional and personal contacts, letting them know you’re in the market for a new role. Don’t have anyone to reach out to? Start making connections by joining professional groups online or connecting on LinkedIn with other professionals in your industry.
Confidently ask for referrals or introductions—you never know who might know of a job opening or be able to connect you with someone else who does! As long as you’re engaging with people in a meaningful way, they’ll likely be more than happy to help you.
Consider Contract Work
Your career doesn’t have to be the typical linear progression of starting at the bottom of the food chain and working your way up. Don’t limit yourself! Be open-minded and flexible about the types of jobs you’re willing to take. Consider roles that might not be your first choice, but that still align with your skillset and career goals.
Contract work is one way to gain valuable experiences, learn new skills, and build your network. During a recession, many businesses may not be hiring full-time employees, but they still need highly skilled professionals to keep their company running smoothly. Consider taking on these types of roles, as they may also lead to full-time employment once the economy recovers.
Don’t Let Your Skills Go Stale
During a recession, a time when businesses would typically slow their hiring efforts, it’s more important than ever to demonstrate your value to potential employers. If there are new technologies or processes out there that you haven’t mastered yet, take the time to upskill and expand your knowledge. Take online courses, attend webinars, and stay up to date on the latest news in your industry.
For example, more and more businesses are harnessing the power of AI to transform their processes. If you’re working in tech, from software engineering to data science, adding an AIOps specialty to your resume is a great way to differentiate yourself. By showcasing your dedication to staying competitive in your own career, you’ll show potential employers you can do the same for their businesses.
Partner With a Staffing Firm Like KORE1
Job searching, no matter the state of the economy, is exhausting. Instead of going the process alone, lean on KORE1. You’ll gain access to a vast network of exciting open jobs and impressive companies looking for top talent like you.
We’ll be by your side every step of the way, helping you perfect your resume and prepare for interviews. Your skills and experience will be matched with career opportunities where you can truly thrive, saving you from the headache of job searching and putting valuable time back in your day.