myambition

Common challenges for today's job seeker

In a market with an increased supply of candidates and fewer opportunities there are even more challenges for the current job seeker. Here we try to uncover some of the common challenges you will face before securing your new role.

Know who you are and what you want

It is always important to be purposeful about what you want, what your strengths are and be crystal clear about how and where you can add substantial value. 

Choice - fewer jobs to choose from

In this market there may well be fewer roles. You may have to sell your experience into a different sector.  Know what the employer looks for and think about how to communicate and transfer your skill set.  Also be aware of how to overcome any objections that the employer (or recruiter) may have in taking you to the next stage.

Deal or no deal

Know what your bargaining power is.  Is it your experience, your salary expectations or personality and fit for the role?

Resillience and focus

Keep your eye on the ball and be resilient.  Always aim for a great result. Positivity counts for a lot in a market like this.

Contract v Perm

The contract market is more competitive than it has been for quite sometime.  The main challenge is proving you really, really want the job. Employers have had very good people apply for jobs, only to discover they don't really want the job because they want to do it, they want it because they want a change from what their doing.

What can you offer the employer?

Be careful of the attitude 'what can this job do for me'.   In this market you need to be aware the dynamic has changed - there are enough good candidates out there that employers can now cherry pick from.  They can pick the one who asks the right question at the right time.   From an employer point of view lots of people clear the hurdle on skills, and it comes down to personality fit, suitability for the role and attitude.

Networking

It appears more than ever  to be a case of who you know not what you know.   Get really comfortable with meeting new people.  The sooner you become accustomed to this skill the sooner you will tap into the hidden job market.

Refer to our other articles to make sure you are ahead of the crowd in your interview.

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About the Author

Sally-Anne is the Career Manager for myambition. She has over 10 years executive recruitment experience and uses her coaching expertise to provide action orientated advice.

Read more articles by Sally-Anne Blanshard