What Do You Actually Do In This Job Market?

Forbes

4 days ago

Miriam Groom, (M.A. Psyc.) Organizational Therapist, CEO of Mindful Career, and Leader, Human Capital at KPMG.
Let's be honest—today's job market is unpredictable. Despite widespread layoffs and hiring freezes in some sectors, others are quietly booming. But for job seekers, especially mid-career professionals or those in transition, the dominant feeling is confusion.
Every week, I speak with professionals who ask: 'What am I doing wrong?' 'Do I need to rebrand myself?' 'Should I pivot, freelance or go back to school?'
Here's the truth: The market is complex, but with the right mindset and tools, it's not impossible. Below is a roadmap I share with my clients—and now with you.
It's tempting to apply to every opening that vaguely fits. But that strategy can lead to burnout and low response rates.
What to do instead:
• Pick three to five companies a week you genuinely want to work for.
• Research their recent press, product launches and leadership changes (try Crunchbase or their LinkedIn page).
• Tailor your resume and outreach based on how you can solve a current business problem for them.
Resource: You can use JobScan to optimize your resume against a specific job description. It improves keyword alignment, which helps with applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Your resume isn't just a list—it's a narrative. In today's market, your ability to communicate your career story can be just as important as your qualifications.
Try this: Craft a 'Career Positioning Statement.' One or two lines that answer:
• Who are you professionally?
• What unique value do you bring?
• What kind of opportunity are you pursuing now?
Here's an example: 'I'm a purpose-driven marketing strategist with 10+ years in B2B SaaS, passionate about helping early-stage companies grow through brand clarity and demand generation. I'm now exploring mission-led startups or consulting opportunities.'
Resource: Try Teal HQ to build your career tracker and craft a positioning statement with structure.
If full-time roles are elusive, it doesn't mean you're stuck. Consider a portfolio career—a combination of short-term gigs, freelance work or contract roles.
Why this works:
• Keeps income flowing
• Fills resume gaps
• Broadens your skill set and network
• Sometimes leads to full-time opportunities
How to get started:
• Set up a profile on Upwork, Contra or Toptal
• Join Slack communities or Substacks for your niche (design, HR, product management, etc.)
• Offer project-based help in your network with a clear one-pager
This job market is also a mirror. If you're not getting traction, it might not be your fault—it might be misalignment.
Ask yourself:
• Do I still want this role or am I doing it because I 'should'?
• Do my current strengths align with where the market is going?
• Is it time to rebrand, upskill or reposition?
Resource: Use the O*NET Interest Profiler to explore roles based on your preferences and skills. It's backed by the U.S. Department of Labor and surprisingly insightful.
And if you're thinking of a career change, platforms like CareerOneStop or LinkedIn Learning offer guided paths that help you reskill strategically—without enrolling in a costly degree.
It's often said that up to 80% of jobs are filled through networking. In a market this noisy, relationships cut through the clutter.
Actionable steps:
• Reconnect with five former colleagues or classmates this month—without asking for anything.
• Post thought leadership or insights on LinkedIn once a week to build your digital presence.
• Attend industry-specific webinars or virtual meetups and follow up with speakers or attendees on LinkedIn.
Resource: Try Lunchclub or Shapr to connect with professionals in your target industries without the awkward small talk.
When things feel uncertain, it's easy to go into overdrive—sending out endless resumes, jumping on every job board or doubting your worth.
But this market doesn't reward hustle alone. It rewards strategy, clarity and alignment.
If you're feeling stuck, try this:
• Reflect on what energizes you (not just what you've done)
• Tighten your personal brand
• Diversify your income streams
• Stay curious—and stay connected
Your next opportunity might not come from the path you planned, but it may be even better.
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