Engineering Leader | Technical Director | Innovator | Author of The Innovation Chronicles newsletter
I have been seeing a lot of negative postings lately about the job market, and I wanted to offer some insight to those seeking a new position. 1. It is a numbers game. It is literally like pulling the handle on a slot machine. The more pulls of the handle, the more likely you will eventually get a "hit" (a response to your resume.) Some people will get a new position immediately. Some people will have to wait a while longer. (Just like watching the person next to you at a casino getting a winning slot pull, and you are a $100 in before hitting a bonus game.) 2. You are going to get more rejections than inquiries. This is part of the process. Unless you have the "3 key skills" that are currently hot, this is how it is going to work. 3. No matter when you apply for a position, and no matter your profession, there are always going to be about "3 key skills" that are currently in demand. Technology and industry trends change roughly every six months. If you happen to have the right words on your resume, you are going to get some traction. Most people need time to catch their skills up to the ever changing market. This isn't a negative reflection on you, this is how it works. Your skills are always going to be slightly behind what is hot in the market right now. Particularly in the technology sector -- that new coding language, paradigm, API, is the bright shining object that gets someone's attention. If you have been working for a company for a while, there is a very good chance you are using an older tech. Companies don't change tech stacks overnight. 4. It is easy to become discouraged, but I have a philosophy that I found that works. When I see a job posting, even if I am not a 100% fit, I apply anyways. I always say to myself, "When in doubt, apply." Rejections are free and easily discarded. But you just never know what might be on your resume that will make you stand out to a particular hiring manager. 5. Always be learning. Your Linked In profile is your business card. If you are currently not employed, take a course, and get it posted to your profile. You always want to be viewed in the light of a constant learner. 6. Job searching is a process. You cannot speed it up. There are no shortcuts. Sometimes the market is "tight" and there are not a lot of opportunities available. This is not a reflection on you. It is reality. The job market is much like the real estate market. Sometimes it is a buyer's market (in favor of the employee). Sometimes it is a seller's market. (In favor of the employer.) It varies depending on the economic circumstances of the time. 7. Diversify your skillset. You have core skills that are needed for your profession. Develop tangential skills that will differentiate you. 8. Apply! Set goals for yourself. Something like, "I will apply to x companies each day." It isn't as though you are sending out paper resumes with stamps and killing trees. Persistence, and tenacity are your best allies. I hope this helps.
3D Artist and Motion Designer
1moVert well said Mark Ross especially the 4th point 👏