Written by Larry Kahn, Vice President of New Dimensions in Technology, Inc. (NDT)
Reading about what is happening in the U.S. job market these days can make you dizzy. There have been highly publicized, sizable layoffs from globally recognized industry leading companies, as well as significant layoffs at mid-size and small companies as well. At the same time, the news highlights the skyrocketing number of unfilled jobs and the increased demand for specialized talent for growing companies trying to keep up with all the business they have and for exponential growth projected for 2024.
So, what is a realistic view of today’s job market? The bottom line is that the U.S. job market, like many aspects of our economy, is fractured.
For job seekers, it is wise to be in the know of what is happening at a macro level in the job market. For instance, a recent report from the U.S. Labor Department stated that professional and business services positions totaled 9 million in December 2023.
However, it is the micro level that really makes the difference. How many open jobs are there for my specific skill set and level of experience, and are my resume and LinkedIn in the best form they can be to demonstrate the strength of my candidacy? Be certain that the answer is “yes” to this question before you begin your job search and reach out to your network and directly apply to companies. And remember, with all the negative headwinds that might be swirling on a particular day, the U.S. economy is currently strong. You will find the right job!
Partnering with a specialized recruiting partner, as a valued part of your network, should be integral to your strategy for “real time” job market advice on how to prepare for a job search in your area of expertise. NDT’s experience is that many company founders and hiring managers are too busy to even write good job descriptions. Often, the skills and experience that a hiring manager really wants in a candidate are not well-reflected in the job description. NDT is proud to share that we have a successful record of partnering with client companies to find talent that they otherwise would never have known about and finding opportunities for our candidates that they never would have seen posted.
It is a Win, Win, Win for all involved!!