Let’s face it: economic uncertainty is never easy to deal with. Whether you're running a business or looking for your next career move, the constant ebb and flow of the markets can feel unsettling.
 
Right now, with global markets as unpredictable as ever (with the recent budget in the UK and the US elections concluding with the re-appointment of Donald Trump), hiring plans are taking a hit, and candidate confidence isn’t exactly soaring.
 
So, what’s really happening out there, and how can both companies and job seekers adapt?
 
Let’s dive in.
 
How Hiring Plans Are Taking a Hit
For businesses, economic instability has a way of putting the brakes on even the most well-laid hiring strategies. When times are uncertain, companies naturally tread more carefully.
 
Here’s a closer look at what that means:

1. Slower Decisions: Companies are holding off on making quick hiring moves. Instead of giving the green light right away, they’re taking a step back to analyse budgets and reassess financial stability. This often translates to longer recruitment processes, which can be frustrating for job seekers.
2. More Contract and Temp Roles: To stay flexible, businesses are leaning more towards hiring freelancers, contractors, or temporary staff. It gives them a way to meet immediate needs without committing to long-term costs, especially when the future feels murky.
3. Focusing on the Essentials: Instead of expanding across the board, companies are prioritising critical roles that are vital to keeping the business running. This means that if you have skills in areas like tech, risk management, or operational efficiency, your expertise might still be highly sought after.
4. Looking Inward: There’s also a stronger emphasis on internal mobility. Upskilling existing staff and preparing them for new challenges is a cost-effective strategy that’s getting more attention than ever. It’s all about making the most of the talent that’s already there.

 
The Shift in Candidate Confidence
It’s not just businesses feeling the pinch—job seekers are, too. With so much uncertainty, it’s only natural for candidates to become more cautious.
 
Here's how this is playing out:

1. Staying Put: Right now, many employees are choosing to stay in their current roles, even if they’re not completely happy. The thought of jumping into something new, especially with probation periods and potential layoffs looming, feels risky. Stability becomes more attractive than chasing a dream job.
2. Thinking About Money: With the cost of living going up, candidates are becoming more strategic about their financial well-being. They’re asking for higher salaries to cushion themselves against inflation, but this can make negotiations tricky, especially if companies are trying to tighten their belts.
3. Digging Deeper Into Employers: Today’s job seekers are savvier than ever. Before making any career moves, they’re doing serious research on potential employers, digging into financial stability, workplace culture, and long-term prospects. If a company has even a hint of trouble, it might be enough to scare off top talent.
4. Looking for More Than Just a Pay cheque: Stability is key, but candidates are also craving flexibility and balance. Remote work and hybrid models are still high on the list of demands. If a company can offer that, it could be a huge selling point in these uncertain times.

 
Adapting to the Uncertainty: Tips for Employers and Job Seekers
If you’re feeling unsure about what to do next—whether you’re hiring or job hunting—you’re not alone.
 
Here are some ways to navigate this unpredictable environment:
 
For Employers:

• Be Transparent: People appreciate honesty, especially now. If your company is experiencing challenges or needs to make strategic changes, keep communication open. It builds trust and reassures both your current team and potential new hires.
• Support Your People: Offering resources like mental health support, professional development, and flexible work options can make your company stand out. It shows you care, which can be a big deal when people are weighing job offers.
• Stay Nimble: It’s all about being flexible. Have a strategy that allows you to adapt your hiring plans as needed. Maybe that means creating a talent pipeline you can tap into quickly when things improve or leveraging contractors for short-term needs.

 
For Job Seekers:

• Think Long-Term: Yes, security matters. But don’t make career choices based purely on short-term fears. Look for roles that align with your long-term goals and provide opportunities to learn and grow.
• Save a Little Cushion: If you’re thinking about switching jobs, try to build a financial safety net. Knowing you have some backup funds can ease the stress and give you more freedom to make the right move.
• Do Your Homework: Research, research, research. Check out a company’s track record, read employee reviews, and get a sense of whether they’re likely to weather the storm. Making an informed decision can save you from headaches down the road.

 
Moving Forward, Together
Economic ups and downs are inevitable, but they don’t have to derail your plans completely. Employers and job seekers alike can thrive by staying adaptable and proactive. While the future may be uncertain, the strategies you use today—whether it’s investing in your team, looking for growth opportunities, or making calculated moves—can set you up for success.
 
At the end of the day, being prepared and staying informed is the best way to weather economic turbulence. After all, change is constant, but so is the opportunity to adapt and thrive.
 
Quick question for you
If you’re currently job hunting or hiring, what’s your biggest concern in today’s unpredictable economy?
 
#EconomicUncertainty #JobMarketTrends #CandidateConfidence #FutureOfWork #AdaptAndThrive #BusinessResilience #HiringChallenges

In today's fast-paced world, job seekers often focus on using digital platforms and technologies to find and apply for jobs. While these tools can certainly be helpful, they may not be the most effective way to land your dream job. In fact, sometimes taking a more old school approach to your job search strategy can be just what you need to stand out from the crowd.
 
Here are my 7 tips for becoming old school with your job search strategy.
 
1.Network in person or on the phone
In-person networking is one of the oldest job search strategies in the book, but it still works. Attend industry events, job fairs, and other networking events to meet people who can help you find your next job. Be sure to bring business cards, dress professionally, and be prepared to talk about your skills and experience.  In addition, consider using the phone to reach out to professionals in your field. You can introduce yourself, ask about their experience and career path, and inquire about any potential job openings or leads. Be respectful of their time and make sure to follow up with a thank you email or note.
 
2.Pick up the phone
While email and online applications are common ways to apply for jobs, don't underestimate the power of the phone in your job search. A well-placed phone call can help you stand out from other applicants and make a great impression on potential employers.
 
3.Use a professional CV/Resume and cover letter
While it may be tempting to use a fancy, eye-catching CV/Resume or cover letter template, it's important to remember that these documents are meant to showcase your skills and experience. Stick with a simple, professional format that highlights your achievements and qualifications. Consider hiring a professional CV/Resume Writer to help you create a winning document.
 
4.Follow up after submitting an application
After submitting a job application, take the time to follow up with the hiring manager or HR department. This shows that you're proactive and interested in the position. You can follow up via email, phone, or even by sending a handwritten note.  This shows that you're proactive and interested in the position. Be sure to introduce yourself, mention that you've applied for the job, and ask if there's anything else you can provide to support your application.
 
5.Research the company and the position
Before you apply for a job, take the time to research the company and the position you're interested in. This will help you tailor your application materials to the company's needs and show that you're serious about the position. 
 
6.Arrange informational interviews
Schedule informational interviews with professionals in your field to request a meeting to learn more about their work and industry. This is a great way to expand your network and gain valuable insights into potential job opportunities.
 
7.Be persistent
Finding a job can be a long and frustrating process, but don't give up. Continue to apply for jobs, follow up with hiring managers, and network with industry professionals. Persistence is key in any job search.
 
In conclusion, taking an old school approach to your job search strategy can be a great way to stand out from the crowd and land your dream job. By networking in person, using a professional CV/resume and cover letter, following up after submitting an application, researching the company and the position, and being persistent, you can increase your chances of success.
 
Looking for expert guidance and support in your job search?
Let me help you navigate the often-challenging job market and find the career opportunities you've been searching for.  Visit my website Job Search Support - THE CAREER OWL
 
#jobsearch #findingyourdreamjob #tipstofindajob #jobhunting

Originally posted to the British Association of CV Writers (BACVW) website on 2nd August 2021.

Are you at a career crossroads and don’t know what to do?
​Are you new to the world of work and don’t know where to look?

​The driving force guiding your career must come from you and requires you to clearly think about what you truly want by treating yourself as a business with a product to sell and show why an employer should attract, hire and retain you.

The following steps will ensure that you will be set up for a successful job search before you even start applying.

#1 Know what you are looking for
The key in any career review that will enable you to move forward is to analyse your past, being honest about what was good and what wasn’t so good so that you can plan your future career pathway.  This applies even for new entrants into the world of work as you should analyse what you are ideally looking for from a job.
Analyse the why to bring clarity to what the right job will look like for you.  Don’t just assume that the grass is always greener…..!

• Where have you been?
• Where are you now?
• Where do you want to be?

Ask yourself ….

• What have you achieved in your career so far?
• What are you proud of?
• What have you enjoyed and why?
• What have you not enjoyed and why?
• When are you at your best?
• What are your strengths?
• What do others say about you/what feedback have you had?
• What is important to you about a job?
• Where do you want to work? Home-based, office-based, hybrid based, compressed hours? Is it a must-have or nice to have?
• What hours do you want to work?
• What type of company do you want to work for e.g. do you prefer smaller organisations where you do a little bit of everything or larger organisation where the work is more predictable?
• What sector do you want to work in?
• What type of work do you want to do? What activities, challenges and responsibilities do you want to do?
• Would you consider short term, interim or self-employed work?
• What salary and benefits do you need? What is the minimum salary you are willing to accept? Does it match the industry norm?
• What type of culture do you want to work in?
• What are you prepared to compromise on?
• What are my career goals for the next 12 months, 2 years or 5 years?

Sometimes roles are not advertised with salaries. The following sites will let you research the average salary for jobs and give you an idea of where the role might be positioned.
Total jobs
Payscale
Hays
Randstad

​Establish a clear vision for what you want your ideal role to be.  This will help align your professional interests, aspirations and skills to the jobs that ensure that you perform at your best.  What is your wish list for your next role? Try to be specific as this helps narrow down search parameters and means that you are more likely to find your dream role.  Would you be content and confident in this role?

#2 Spruce up your documents and social media
Do your CV, LinkedIn Profile and other social media showcase your brand appropriately?  Is there anything that could affect your application? 

There is a good chance that a future employer will check out your online profiles, both personal and professional, before making a job offer and sometimes even before interviewing.  Employers are also using LinkedIn to find candidates.

Do your CV and LinkedIn profile show how you can fix the problem that an employer has? Weave your narrative into what they are looking for.  Try to work on your personal brand.  Write down what you want to be known for and what you want people to think of when they look at your profiles.

#3 Fill in the gaps
Having completed initial research into your dream role are there any gaps in your knowledge?

• Knowledge based – are there any online courses or classes that could be completed?
• Experience based – could you volunteer within cross functional teams at your existing employer or undertake new projects to get exposure to areas that you need to grow in?

#4 Perfect your elevator pitch
Before you start approaching businesses and/or network connections you need to be able to clearly articulate the question “tell me about yourself”.  This can be achieved through creating a great elevator pitch which is engaging, short and tells a story clearly and concisely.

There are so many different elements that make up job hunting so I thought it would be useful to break it down into an A to Z listing with some pointers to help you.
 
A     Apply | Ask | Achievements | Applicant Tracking System (ATS)

• Focus your application process – it is very easy to just send out to any role – think what you truly want.
• What have been your past achievements? Can you quantify your achievements where possible – did you reduce, increase, grow, improve or save?
• Try to shape your CV incorporating the key words/language used in the job description.  Is the job title exactly the same as yours – if applying for the same type of job (if not put your current job title and then in brackets put the job title from the add).

B     Be your Best | Bounce Back | Buddy

• Champion your own cause – show the market what value you bring to them.
• When things don’t go well, there is always something you can get from it – use it as a learning experience and try to move on quickly by focussing on what you did well.
• Try and buddy up with a friend/associate who can be there as a sounding board for helping with your job search. 

C    Craft | Commit | CV | Cover Letter

• Your CV is the window into you and what you will bring to a new employer.  Shape it so that it truly paints a picture of you and your experience.
• Finding a job may take time and you need to prepare yourself that success won’t happen overnight. 
• Consider using different layouts for different job roles particularly if you are moving industry.  Can a future employer see quickly how you will make a difference to them?
• Sometimes you are asked to include a cover letter.  Focus on your motivation for the role and joining the organisation.

D    Differentiate | Develop | Discuss

• Think how you will make your documents stand out from the crowd. Can a recruiter easily see what you have done and the difference you made in previous roles?
• Have you got all of the desired skills wanted for your role in a different business? Could you benefit from training in that particular field?
• Discuss with friends, family, network contacts that you are seeking new opportunities. Get them to champion your cause too. 

E    Endurance | Engage

• It will take time to find a new opportunity, it is extremely rare for you to literally walk into another role (unless you have been headhunted).  Take things slowly and steadily, try not to panic.
• Engage with businesses in your chosen field – build network connections, send in speculative enquiries.

F    Friends | Follow up | Forgive Yourself

• Use your network connections to champion your cause.
• Follow up after applications as it shows that you are keen on the role and see yourself as part of the organisation.
• You will go through a range of emotions when looking for a job, particularly if you entered the job market via redundancy.  Take time to reflect but try to put an end date on it and then try to move on.

G    Grin | Go forward | Give

• When attending interviews, try to exude positivity of the situation you are in.  Demonstrate positive body language and confidence.
• Even if you are not successful in a particular application or job interview use it as a learning experience, What went well? What didn’t? How would you handle similar questions/processes in the future?
• Whilst looking for work could you help others? Consider things such as recommendations on LinkedIn, volunteering (sometimes this leads to opportunities).

H    Help Yourself and Help Others

• Helps you to remain positive and in some cases could lead to potential avenues for work opportunities.

I    Ignore | Invest | Interview

• Ignore the doubt in your head or from others.  Use opportunities as experiences to make yourself better.
• You might need to invest in some training but this all adds value to your application and ensures that you are a nearly complete package.
• Ensure you fully prepare before an interview, consider the likely questions they may ask and how you would respond (consider using the STAR or CARE method) as well as questions you might ask an employer.

J    Jargon | Job Description | Job Sites

• What terminology is used in your chosen field versus your current field of work? Are there any differences? What do they mean? Ensure you are well versed in these.
• The job description for the role is the most important part of any job hunt.  It is the wish list of an employer for the candidate.  It articulates the expectations of the organisation and allows you to decide if the role is for you.
• Job sites are a quick but not necessarily effective way of finding job opportunities.  My advice is to use it to find roles but then apply directly through an employer, that way ensuring that your application actually gets to the employer.

K    Kick Back | Keep Promises | Kindness

• Try to take a bit of time out from job hunting.  Use the time to recharge your batteries and reflect on what is going well and what isn’t.
• If you have been contacted by a recruiter and asked to supply additional information within a certain time try to do it.  If you have subsequently changed your mind, let them know.
• Always put yourself first and your welfare and if it means taking a step back then do so.  This can be difficult if you are claiming benefit support via the job centre as there seems to be an expectation for you to constantly job hunt, however this doesn’t benefit anyone as you could end up running out of steam.

L    Learn | LinkedIn Profile

• Use every opportunity as a learning opportunity.  Things might not always be successful but it gives you the skills to adapt and be resilient.
• LinkedIn needs to become a key part of your job-hunting strategy.  Ensure you have an “All Star Profile” that shows your value to a future employer 365 days a year.  Tweak it slightly every few weeks so that you continue to appear at the top of searches.  Consider the following three aspects.
  • Engage with other people’s content regularly – comment and show that you are an expert in your field.
  • Are you able to create content? This helps you to differentiate yourself in the market.
  • Try to regularly add new people to your network – look at connecting with people at the level above you who most likely would be recruiting for your roles.

M    Motivate | Monitor | Measure

• Linked with the buddy mentioned above, use them to keep yourself motivated during the job-hunting process.  If you have concerns talk to them as an independent person.
• Keep an eye on what is happening in the market, what are the current trends in your chosen field? What companies are currently recruiting / downsizing?  What skills etc. are needed in your chosen field?
• Have you had feedback from a particular job application? Were there any details on who to contact? Have you followed it up?

N    News | Networking

• Linked to above, keep an eye on the market.
• Over 40% of jobs are within the hidden market in the UK, using effective networking allows you to tap into this market.  Use these people to discover opportunities that you might not find through traditional methods of jobsites or agencies.

O    Organisation | Own Results | Offer | Opportunities

• Plan your time wisely, Where do you want to look? What type of jobs are you interested? What are your values, do they meet the values of potential organisations you are looking at?
• Once you have submitted an application or attended an interview, do you follow it up to show your interest?
• When you are made an offer particularly if you have more than one on the table consider the entire package not just the salary.  What is the total package such as holidays, pension, bonus, development opportunities, flexibility?
• What opportunities are actually out there in your chosen field? Do they fit your current needs? If not, could you look to transition into another industry or job role? What transferable skills do you have?

P    Part-time | Problem Solving | Process | Priorities

• Could you consider looking at part-time or temporary opportunities initially to get your foot in the door, particularly if it is a new industry? Will there be scope in the future to move into full-time?
• Can you demonstrate to a future employer how you can solve their problem efficiently and effectively? Do you have the skills and capabilities to help drive their business forward?
• Research the steps involved in securing the job opportunities.  Do they want a CV and cover letter, job application, presentation, psychometric tests etc? Will the interview be a number of different stages? How will interviews be conducted e.g. face to face, video etc? How quick will it take to respond at each stage?
• What is important to you? Think about what is a priority to you and what you are prepared to compromise on.

Q    Qualify | Quantity | Quick Responses | Question

• Ensure you are clear in your CV/cover letter how you actually added value to a previous organisation.  Try to quantify using specific measurables.
• Consider the length of and information contained within your CV.  Is it easy for the end user?
• If you need to respond quicker to a question from a recruiter do so.
• Prepare some questions ahead of a potential interview, what is it you want to know about the organisation.

R    Reward | Review | Routine

• Linked to taking time out for yourself, reward yourself as you go along to keep yourself motivated.
• Continuously review what you do as you go along – does it fit with the industry and methods of recruitment? Are there any areas of improvements?
• How are you going to manage your job hunt? Daily, every other day? Consider your new operating hours.  It gives you focus so that you don’t become demoralised with the job-hunting process.

S   Social Media | Sell yourself with pride | Second Interview | Strengths

• Social media needs to become your best friend.  Use it to let people know you are looking for roles as well as for networking purposes.
• You are the best champion of you.  Do yourself proud.  Effectively think of yourself as a product that is being advertised in the market, what is the best thing about you?
• Attending a 2nd interview can often be a daunting experience.  Be prepared to answer similar questions to your first interview but you might be meeting with peers or senior management this time.  Think about what they might want to hear from you.
• Think about what makes you different, your strengths.  How can you add value to an organisation from your career path to date?

T    Talk | Think professional | Track | Training | Threats

• Talk to network connections – pick up the phone and see if there are any opportunities or ask for an informal chat.
• Remember to be professional in all of your dealings.  Even if you haven’t heard anything from a company, don’t use social media to vent your frustrations.
• Keep a record of all of your applications.  Save a copy of the version of the CV submitted for that role along with the job description in case you are called for interview.
• As mentioned earlier, consider training opportunities to enhance your skills and make you stand out in the market.
• What issues are affecting your current market? Will it impact on job opportunities? Do you need to consider a transition to another industry?

U    Umbrella | Unleash potential | Utilise

• What different types of roles exist within your chosen field? Could you consider a move into a different job role to take a step back into the job market? What are you prepared to compromise on?  Do your research.
• How can you demonstrate your worth to a future employer? How can you make a difference?
• Networking is key …. Utilise it and add value to your search.

V    Value | Volume

• How can you demonstrate your value to a future employer?
• On the flip side, are there are personal values that you are not prepared to compromise on when it comes to a future employer?
• Volume doesn’t breed success.  In the past it might have done, the key nowadays is to ensure that you reflect the organisation in your CV.

W    Work Experience | Weak Ties | Weaknesses

• Consider work experience as a means of getting back into the jobs market, particularly if it is in a new industry.  Opportunities could come from this.
• You never know who knows who.  If you know what you want from a role, your network can work in your favour.
• Where are your development areas? Are they critical to be successful in your chosen field or are there areas which could be developed but are nice to haves?

X    X-ray | Xcel

• Try to predict what a future employer is actually looking for in a candidate? Do you think they might have an internal candidate?
• You are your own worst enemy.  Be positive and use every opportunity as your chance to shine and “xcel!!”.

Y    You | Yes

• Try to remain positive and show you off in the best light.
• Remember to try to sound really positive when you are made an offer.  But only accept if you truly see yourself as part of the organisation.

Z    Zero Response

• Sometimes you might not hear anything from recruiters and it is frustrating particularly when you have spent lots of time preparing the application.  One way of overcoming this is to go direct, find out the recruiting manager and apply direct.

#jobhunting #jobsearch #a-zjobhunting 

Searching for a job can be a daunting experience.  Where do you start? What questions do you need to ask?

This blog will give you some pointers about what to expect and what you need to do when searching for a job.

Step 1 – review where you are

• What have you achieved in your career so far?
• Where do you want to get to?
• What skills are you most confident in?
• What makes you unique?
• What experience do you have?
  • Work experience
  • Voluntary experience
  • Other experiences
• What are your goals?
• What time frame for looking for a job are you looking at?
• Have you updated your CV and cover letter to reflect the job role that you are applying for?
• What type of role are you looking for? - full time, part-time, permanent, temporary, internship, self-employment
• What responsibilities do you want to have? What do you currently like or dislike?
• What type of organisation do you want to work for? Is it a small/medium business (SME), national company or international company? 
• What is important to you? Be clear on what you want

 
Step 2 – how to look for jobs

• Research employers
  • Create a list of target employers that you want to work for
    • Look at the Companies careers page, Indeed page, Glassdoor and LinkedIn to find out information on the company. 
• Use a search engine to find recent articles on the company – are there any latest developments? This is useful when attending an interview and they ask what you know about the organisation.
• Network with people who currently work there – ask them specific questions such as what is it like to work there? Do they know if there are any roles available?  How are roles recruited for?
• Useful avenues for finding a job
  • Job Boards Online such as Reed, Indeed, Job site, CV Library
  • Trade, national and local press
  • Networking – this can be face-to-face or using LinkedIn to build connections at different organisations in your local area that do the same job role that you do.
  • LinkedIn 

Step 3 – follow up

• Don’t become invisible – follow up on your application within a few days asking if your CV/application has been received.
• Ask for feedback

If you would like some support with job hunting techniques and recommendations email me today at [email protected] and I’ll help you get started.