By Andrew Seaman
Senior Managing Editor for Jobs & Career Development at LinkedIn News
You and other job seekers are likely alarmed by the steady drumbeat of news about mass layoffs that emerged around the start of the New Year. Headlines about more people looking for work and employers reducing their workforces are bound to increase anxiety among job seekers. Fortunately, there are several reasons to remain confident and keep your job hunt moving forward despite those headlines and worries.
First, many of the headlines have been about layoffs at well-known tech and media companies. Layoffs at organizations with household names typically get more attention than if they occurred at lesser-known employers.
Second, while the effects of these layoffs on the affected individuals can't be overstated, the size of most layoffs is small concerning the size of the overall workforce. For example, recent initial jobless claims in the U.S. have not spiked.
The most recent data from LinkedIn also shows that hiring is likely stabilizing, with the pace remaining mostly unchanged since July (+0.4%), according to the State of the Labor Market from LinkedIn's Economic Graph.
Finally, it's important to remember that the labor market is different at any given moment for nearly every member. A person who has experience as an accountant in Alabama is in a completely different situation as a mechanic in Idaho, for example.
The key is to ignore the day-to day noise that may make you feel helpless in your job search. Otherwise, you can find yourself caught in a cascade of negative news that may influence the likelihood of you landing a new job.
Focusing on your individual job search is easier said than done, though. To learn other strategies, I asked LinkedIn members to share their suggestions for forging ahead with a job search amid endless headlines about layoffs.
Stay Informed and Confident in Your Field
Ignoring the day-to-day noise from the media is helpful, but you should still pay attention to factors that affect your unique position in the labor market. For example, it's important to know what's going on in the industry where you want to find work. You also want to know what's going on at your target companies, such as any recent layoffs or expansion plans. Understanding what's happening in your area of the labor market can help you create a solid job search strategy that can lead you to the right job.
"I always tell my clients to gain confidence by researching the role, and investigating the industry, major players, products/offerings/services, and news," wrote Matt Warzel, who is a career coach and resume writer.
Focusing your attention on these areas will not only build your confidence, Warzel writes that it will also help inform your interview answers. The added knowledge will help set you apart from applicants who did not focus on those factors as much during their job search.
Invest in Networking
Networking is the cornerstone of a successful job search and career. Networking is also a great way to overcome the fear and anxiety that may come from seeing headlines about layoffs. The reason it can help overcome those feelings is due to the fact that networking is within your control.
Challenge yourself to network when you're feeling overwhelmed or anxious about your job search. For example, you can send a message to an existing connection and a connection request to someone new when those feelings arise. Not only will it channel that energy into something productive, you'll feel accomplished afterward.
"In any market there are always challenges and opportunities," wrote Eleanor Scott, who is a senior program/project manager. "Focus on the opportunities."
Make Time for Learning and Yourself
Like networking, spending time on upskilling can help you stay focused. Taking online courses and conducting informational interviews are also reminders that you're putting yourself in the best position possible to be hired for the role you want.
"Invest in your education and continuous learning in a sensible and rational manner," wrote Chris Mousley, who is a demand planner. "Position yourself for success and wait for the opportunity."
There are other ways to expand your knowledge outside of informational interviews and online courses. Picking ways to socialize while you learn can pay dividends for years to come.
"Lean into niche groups like associations so that you're meeting like minded folks, staying up on industry trends, and learning new concepts," wrote Sarah Dolezal, who is a news reporter.
Of course, you should also take breaks and practice self-care when needed. If you treat your job search as a full-time job, remember that those roles come with days off and breaks for a reason.
"Don’t let it consume you, you need to still allocate time to be you, go gym, walk the dog, meet a friend for coffee," wrote Dominic Joyce, who is a head of talent acquisition. "Don’t let your life be ruled every waking minute by your job search."
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