Redundancies Are Rising and the Job Market Is Feeling It

A lot of people who were perfectly happy where they were are now out looking for work. It's not a reflection of the people affected - it's a reflection of the environment we're all operating in.

If you're looking for work right now, you'll know the market has slowed. Applications are taking longer to hear back on, or worse still still - silence.

But companies are still hiring - they're just being a lot more deliberate about who they bring in.

Businesses under pressure can't afford to get it wrong - which means every hire is scrutinised more carefully than it was a year ago.

Hiring managers are asking one question - who feels like the safest decision?

Here's what's actually working right now:

• Stop mass applying. A targeted application that speaks directly to the role will always outperform ten generic ones. Quality over volume.

• Job boards alone won't cut it. The market is too competitive. Many roles are filled before they're advertised - through networks, referrals, and direct conversations.

• Network without the awkwardness. People generally want to help if they can. Engage with your connections, build new ones, add value where you can. When an opportunity comes up, the person who's been visible and generous will be front of mind.

• Show you're still growing. Take a course. Get a certification. Document the skills you're developing on your CV. Mention it in your cover letter. Have the story ready for interview. Employers in a tight market want people who don't wait to be told to improve.

• Do your homework. Understand the business you're applying to. Know their challenges. Walk in ready to show how you add value - not just why you want the job.

• Move fast and follow up. Respond to opportunities quickly. Follow up after interviews. Decisions are slower right now - but the candidates who stay engaged are the ones who stay in the running.

• Don't blame the market. The market conditions are the market conditions. The candidates who land are the ones who adapt to them, not the ones who wait for them to change.

This isn't the market anyone would have chosen. And for some people, the search has been going a lot longer than they ever expected. That's not a reflection of your value - it's a reflection of the market. If you need a sounding board, feel free to reach out - always happy to chat.

What's the one thing you wish someone had told you before you started looking?