It’s been an employer’s market since the Great Recession but over the course of the last year, the pendulum has swung back in favor of job seekers. Opportunities are plentiful and employers are in need of great people. However, this does not mean employers will be beating down your door and throwing money at you to get you to join their company. If you’re starting a job search, there are some important things you should know before venturing out into this market.
“Just remember that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side, but a fresh start can always help to clean the slate. Candidates in the market place need to bring high emotional intelligence and search for a company that values collaboration and results with diversity/inclusion. Find a place that you believe in the product, believe in your new boss, know you will be recognized for good performance, and offers training/development opportunities to take your career to the next level.” says Sharon Tsao, CMO, Contemporary Staffing Solutions.
Why Now Is a Great Time to Look For a Job
The job market is the best it has been since 2000, with employers consistently adding more jobs each quarter. According to economists, jobs are opening up in nearly every sector of the economy, and while some fields like healthcare, retail, customer service and management are adding jobs faster than others, this is the best job-seeker market the country has seen in a decade. Unemployment is below 4% across the country, and we’ve returned to a climate where job switching is about moving up and earning more, rather than self-preservation.
Tips For Finding and Landing A Great Job In a Job-Seekers Market
In a job seekers market, you can afford to be picky. You can look for jobs that truly align with your skills and goals and you can evaluate offers carefully and negotiate strategically. However, don’t err on the side of arrogance. Just because it’s a booming job seeker market doesn’t mean competition is lacking. Quite the contrary. Keep these tips in mind as you search for a job:
- Don’t oversell yourself: Apply for jobs to which you are actually qualified or that may be one step up for you.
- Stay realistic: Know the going rates for salaries in your field and geographic location. Asking for too much will knock you out of the running.
- Tailor each resume: Just because it’s a job-seekers market doesn’t mean you can slack on best practices. Make sure each resume is tailored to the job to show the hiring manager you’re truly qualified.
- Showcase soft skills: Soft skills are critical success factors for any job. Make sure to highlight traits like curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.
- Build an online brand: Even in a market like this, many employers don’t advertise their openings. Make sure you’ve built an online brand that showcases you as an expert in your field, so recruiters and hiring managers can find you online.
- Work your network: Your connections can be a valuable resource for uncovering hidden opportunities.
- Showcase your achievements: Leverage your online portfolio to showcase your achievements and the ways you’ve brought value to past employers.
Bonus Tip: Work With A Recruiter
The best way to land a great job in this market is to work with a professional recruiter. If you’re ready to kick off your search, contact the team at Contemporary Staffing Solutions today. We can connect you with a position that will help you achieve your career goals.