What Is the Job Market?

The job market is the market in which employers search for employees and employees search
for jobs. The job market is not a physical place as much as a concept demonstrating the
competition and interplay between different labor forces.

et’s explore some tips for preparing for today’s job market.

1. Learn new skills. Take time to explore any number of free or low-cost online trainings to
improve your skills. Many Goodwills are providing online courses for their communities
in areas such as job preparation skills, job search techniques, job leads and placements,
and job-readiness skills, including résumé writing, interview skills building, dressing
techniques and more. You can also take courses at no cost to you
using GCFLearnFree.org, a free online educational website focusing on technology, job
training, and reading and math skills.
2. Build your network. Relationships you’ve formed over time can be a great source for
new job opportunities. Network with others to help you learn of future needs and to
become front of mind as those positions become available. Job searching is a process.
Relying solely on online postings and applying to them is only a part of the puzzle. Don’t
neglect your personal contacts and those you know via your social media.
3. Customize your résumé. Incorporate key words from each company’s job description
and requirements. Include recent accomplishments that would resonate with the hiring
manager to show you’re good at what you do. Check out these two simple steps to get
started on creating your résumé. When you’re done, head on over to Indeed to upload it
and receive a free résumé review.
4. Sign up with a staffing firm. Your quickest path to employment may lie with a staffing
firm. These agencies have continued to maintain contact with companies through this
pandemic and know where the jobs are. These may not be the jobs that will lead to your
ideal, career-oriented pursuits, but for any number of reasons, you may want to get back
into the ranks of the employed and use them as a building block to continue onto your
chosen career path.
5. Practice your interviewing skills. You’ll be applying for jobs in an employer’s market
where the employer can be choosy about who they hire, so you’ll need to stand out.
Rehearse your answers to common interview questions. Too many applicants wing it,
feeling their personality will win the day. While being genuine is important, you’ll want
to plan for how you’ll deal with typical interview questions so you come across more
prepared and professional. Many interviews may be conducted via video conference
while the pandemic continues. Check out our tips for preparing for a virtual
interview. Remember to practice for answers to behavioral questions as well.