The Struggle is Real…
Ah, the job market—one day, you’re a rockstar; the next, you’re lost in the desert, wondering if you’ll ever see civilization (or a paycheck) again.
Between layoffs, pivoting businesses, and shifting priorities, it feels like everyone is trying to stay afloat in an unpredictable sea.
And if you're a job seeker? Well, it can feel like swimming against the tide—without a life jacket.
According to recent data, layoffs in the U.S. have soared, with over 750,000 employees affected in 2024. The technology sector was particularly affected, with at least 95,667 workers at U.S.-based tech companies losing their jobs in 2024.
Start-ups, mid-sized firms, and even some of the big-name giants are hitting pause on growth or restructuring. To make matters worse, Meta just announced that 1000 layoffs are coming.
The struggle out there is very, very real.
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More Companies Are Laying Off
It’s not all doom and gloom, but, okay… it’s kind of concerning.
Layoffs have surged across various industries due to economic pressures, rising interest rates, and companies tightening their belts. For context, during the first quarter of 2023, 61% of CEOs said they were considering workforce reductions.
Even reliable sectors like healthcare and education have seen cuts—a sign that no industry is completely immune to the wider economic waves.
Have you heard of survivorship bias? It's a thing in today’s workplace. Those who remain after layoffs are balancing the workload previously shared by entire teams.
Meanwhile, those looking for new opportunities are left facing the reality of slimmer job boards and fewer openings for which to compete.
Guess the musical chairs analogy fits just a little too well right now.
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However, Companies Are Hiring (But They’re Looking for Mr./Ms. Perfect)
Good news, though—companies are still hiring. The catch? They’re picky. Like, "looking for a unicorn who also knows five programming languages, understands quantum physics, and can do cartwheels" picky.
According to a survey by Jobvite, 52% of recruiters say they're putting more focus on finding candidates with high-quality skills, even if that means leaving positions open longer.
For job seekers, that sometimes feels like being asked for "entry-level experience" with 10 years on the job. I have seen it. I saw it just today. And, I know it’s frustrating. I get it.
The Competition is Fierce
The competition? Oh, it’s fierce. With roughly 8.1 million job openings reported in November 2024 in the U.S., over 6.9 million unemployed people are actively seeking work. And, you have to remember, those jobs that are open may not fit your skillset, level of position, or geography.
And don't forget about the rise of remote work. Suddenly, you’re not just up against the 20 other candidates in your city—you’re competing with someone rocking it from their laptop halfway across the world.
The game’s gone global, my friends!
What Can a Job Seeker Do?
Alright, take a deep breath. No, seriously—inhale, exhale. Better, right? Here is a moment of escape for you...
Job hunting these days can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack... while blindfolded. No fun at all! And, it works both ways. Recruiters are looking for the perfect candidate.
My mission is to bridge the gap and provide insider information for the job seeker to grab the Recruiter's attention and for the Recruiter to reach out and make easier placements.
So, how are we going to do this?
It’s all about taking small, strategic steps—baby steps, if you will. Here’s how to get started:
Upskill to become a better candidate. Employers love seeing that you’re proactive about leveling up your expertise. If you are about to go on an interview and they are looking for a specific skill set, take a quick course or certification. What a great way to show your excitement for the position. You took the time and made the extra effort to become the candidate of choice.
Refine your LinkedIn and résumé. I know you have heard this before but your online presence matters—a lot. Recruiters admit they spend just 7.4 seconds scanning a résumé. Make yours count by focusing on measurable results and clear achievements. Need help with this? Grab time on my calendar, and I will teach you exactly how to set up your resume based on how Recruiters search.
Network like you mean it. It’s not about knowing everyone; it’s about meaningful connections. Join virtual meetups or industry events, or even reach out to an old colleague. Who you know might just give you that edge you need.
Stay resilient. Yes, it’s easy to say and harder to do. But remember, everyone’s path looks different. Stay focused and try to celebrate the small wins, even if that’s just scheduling an informational interview.
Here is the one thing you should not do...
The one thing you should not do... and cannot do... is to give up!
I know, it is easy to say.
The rejections, the ghosting — it’s enough to make anyone want to just curl up with Netflix and never leave the couch (looking for new recommendations to watch. I am on my second round of Ted Lasso... please put in comments!).
But here’s the deal: every success story starts with a messy middle. No one’s out here crushing it without hitting a few bumps in the road first.
The key is to just keep moving, even if it’s baby steps.
A little bit of progress adds up.
So, keep your head up.
Keep moving forward.
Stay positive, and remember — you’ve got this.
The right opportunity’s out there waiting for you.
Now go get it!
Ilene Rein
Job Search Strategist & Executive Recruiter
Pounding Pavement 101
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If you are still baffled by the job search process and are convinced that it is broken, or you are going on interviews and not getting offers, grab time on my calendar to learn more about the strategic roadmap for job seekers I have created that shares the inside secrets from the view of the Recruiter, so you do not have to waste time figuring out how to find a job or to waste time by making mistakes.
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🔴 Ilene Rein is an Executive Recruiter and Job Search Strategist. She teaches job seekers exactly how to market themselves with laser precision to employers using inside secrets from the view of the Recruiter exponentially increasing their chances of getting noticed and hired rapidly!
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If you are serious about your job search and want to learn how to land your dream job in record time, schedule a complimentary consultation to speak directly with Ilene:
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My clients are getting hired in 6X FASTER in their dream jobs after searching on their own!
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Job seekers who landed their dream jobs in record time:
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