Why Now Is the Perfect Time for a Career Check-In

I'm writing with two compelling reasons why you should consider getting a status update on your job right now.

The Gloomy Reality: Labor Market Slowdown

First, the not-so-great news: There are clear signs that the labor market is shifting into a lower gear globally. The US recently experienced the worst three months for job growth since the pandemic, with applications for unemployment benefits rising to their highest level since June. In Canada, young job seekers are facing high rates of being "ghosted" by employers, and the UK labor market is struggling with record lows for all the wrong reasons.

The Optimistic Opportunity: Late-Summer Advantage

On the brighter side, this late-summer period is an opportune moment to take stock of your year and get ahead before the autumn back-to-work rush. Whether you're seeking a new job or aiming to secure your current one, leveraging this slower time can position you better for September.

I consulted a recruiter, a job interview expert, and an economist to gather their insights on navigating current conditions. Here's what they shared.

From the Recruiter: Read the Room

"Everything right now feels so competitive," says Ariel Schur, CEO of ABS Staffing Solutions. With job searches taking longer, she advises resetting expectations and using the wait constructively. Brush up on skills and develop actionable tasks to enhance your candidacy. This not only aids your search but also boosts your confidence, allowing you to hunt from a position of strength.

Regarding raises, wage gains have stalled, but Schur emphasizes that employees shouldn't avoid asking. Instead, be cognizant of your company's performance—check if layoffs have occurred and gauge the general mood. When discussing a raise, clearly demonstrate how you've contributed to the bottom line.

From the Interview Expert: Embrace Your Humanity

Pamela Skillings, co-founder of Big Interview, noticed that nearly 90% of cover letters for a specialized role were identical due to AI use. Her advice: Be human. Instead of mass-applying with AI-generated materials, read job descriptions carefully, write creatively to stand out, and explain why you're the right fit.

For handling tough questions like "Why have you been out of a job for so long?", Skillings suggests a honest approach: Frame it as taking time to find the best long-term fit, and connect it to the current role. This human element is something AI hasn't mastered yet.

From the Economist: Align with the Data

Daniel Zhao, chief economist at Glassdoor, notes that job market sentiment has been weak for months, and recent data reflects this. While bleak, it's comforting to know you're not alone. Use this downtime strategically: read the room, get creative in communications, and reframe negatives into constructive, honest narratives.

By taking these steps, you can navigate the challenges and emerge stronger in your career journey.