Currently, it’s a job seeker’s market. This is a relatively unique situation, making it far easier to find – and land – the kind of opportunity you’ve always wanted. Employers are desperately seeking candidates, as they’re far more flexible than previously. Plus, wages are rising, and benefits are improving, all in an attempt to attract top talent.
However, while these conditions may last a little while, there’s no guarantee they’ll be here forever. Here’s a look at what’s driving the current state of the labor market, as well as how you can take advantage of the situation to boost your career.
The State of the Labor Market
During the early days of the pandemic, when layoffs were common, many assumed that once the recovery started, it would be an employer’s market. However, the reality was far different.
Many professionals felt wronged by their employers or industries, a situation that led to the Great Resignation. Plus, many Baby Boomers that lost jobs or that didn’t want to deal with the challenges surrounding COVID-19 in the workplace opted to exit the workforce a bit earlier than planned. Couple that with skill shortages in many sectors, and opportunities abound.
Candidates are also being far more selective about the positions they pursue. Since that’s the case, employers have to go above and beyond to attract job seekers, making it easier for professionals to get generous benefits packages or higher pay.
Ultimately, these conditions put candidates in the driver’s seat, all while improving the quality of job offers many professionals see during their searches.
How to Take Advantage of Current Conditions
When there’s a tight labor market, it can create opportunities for professionals who want to grow and advance professionally, make a career change, or re-enter the job market after a break.
If you’re currently working, now could be a great time to negotiate for a better deal with your employer, particularly if the going rate for your skill set in your area has risen in recent months. It could also be the moment to start exploring other opportunities, as even employers of choice may have more openings than usually due to market conditions.
For anyone considering a career change, a tight labor market means employers are often more inclined to take a chance on you, particularly if you have some transferable skills. By highlighting what you bring to the table and your enthusiasm for the new field, you may have a far easier time landing that critical transitional opportunity.
If you’ve been out of the workforce for some time, employers are also more open-minded about meeting candidates with gaps in their work history. That’s particularly true in the aftermath of the pandemic, as many people were part of layoffs due to COVID-19.
Taking advantage of current conditions isn’t overly challenging. Often, simply updating your resume to align with current trends and seeking out new opportunities is enough to open your eyes to the possibilities. If you’re ready to see what’s available, the team at GSG Talent Solutions wants to hear from you. Contact us to learn more about our current openings and see how our services can make landing your dream job easier than ever before.