With national unemployment sitting around 4.1% and over 60% of workers reporting they’re open to new opportunities but not actively searching, it can feel like the job market is frozen. But here’s the truth: there is movement. Companies are hiring. People are transitioning. And your next opportunity might be closer than you think.
The key? Break the process down so it feels doable instead of overwhelming. We often catch ourselves saying “I can’t.” But funny enough, that phrase already contains “I can.”
Take Personal Inventory
Before you apply to anything, pause. Ask yourself:
- What do I want in my next role?
- What do I not want?
- Where am I willing to be flexible (location, hours, pay)?
- What kind of culture or values do I need to thrive?
Write it down. You can’t expect to find a great fit if you’re unclear on what “fit” even means.
Time Block Your Search
Whether you’re job hunting full time or squeezing it into the margins of life, make it intentional:
- Set aside dedicated time blocks in your calendar.
- Hold yourself accountable, because this is work too – this is life work.
- Track your progress so you stay motivated.
No one drifts into their dream job. Structure makes space for momentum.
Research Smart
The job you’re looking for may not have the title you’re expecting. Try this:
- Explore roles adjacent to your experience.
- Look at how industries are evolving—many new jobs didn’t exist five years ago.
- Research companies you admire, even if they’re not hiring (yet).
The more curious you are, the more options you’ll see. Bonus: You need to be practicing this kind of positive thinking and self talk, I promise it’ll help.
Let Tech Work for You
Set up alerts on:
- Indeed
- ZipRecruiter
- Industry-specific job boards
Let new postings come to you, so you’re not constantly checking and refreshing. It’s like having a personal assistant feeding you leads while you live your life.
Apply Daily—and Track It
Apply for a few jobs every day (consistency > volume). Use a spreadsheet or notebook to track:
- Job titles
- Company names
- Application dates
- Follow-up reminders
For the top 20%—the jobs that really spark your interest—follow up with a brief, professional message. It truly makes a difference.
Network Without Cringing
Networking doesn’t mean awkward small talk or asking for favors. It means:
- Talking to people you already know—former coworkers, classmates, neighbors, teachers.
- Reaching out with clarity (Step 1 helps here).
- Being curious—ask about their path, their job, their company.
The goal isn’t to beg for interviews. It’s to learn, share, and be top-of-mind when opportunities arise.
Yes, it’s work. But it is work you’re doing to invest in your future. With just a bit of structure and preparation, this process becomes not only manageable but empowering.
You’ve got this.
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