Job search trends show that the modern job seeker does not fit the stereotype of the desperately unemployed, scrambling to accept the first available job offer that comes along. Instead, prospective employees in 2017 sift through employment opportunities with a critical eye, looking for the position with the right fit for their unique skills and needs. Here are a few more 2017 job trends and how they are likely to affect you.
New Ways of Getting an Interview
Gone are the days of sending in a resume and waiting for an employer to call, or checking in with your close family and friends for suggestions and referrals. The contemporary job search usually requires a larger network for success, and it is up to the job seeker to put in the effort to create that network. Start by stretching your virtual network. Keep LinkedIn and other professional profiles up to date, and regularly visit the profiles and websites of those companies that interest you. Join professional organizations in your field, and post content to add value to their sites. Join in online conversations, and be open to making connections.
Begin to extend the network to your offline life. Attend live events put on by your professional organizations. Go to trade shows and accept invitations to social events to meet new people. Meet your old and new contacts for coffee, and make sure they know you are open to new job positions. Incorporate this type of networking into your job search, as it might be more valuable than sending out your resume.
On-Demand Hiring
A recent job seeker study, completed by the job transition company RiseSmart, found that 15 percent of job seekers surveyed were currently doing a gig-type job, while another 12 percent were pursuing an on-demand position. On-demand jobs are a great way to make ends meets during a job search, and some workers are able to turn gigs into full-time employment. With more companies hiring on-demand workers for short-term projects, it is possible to get gigs in many different areas, not just traditional gig-type work, such as editing or web design. Taking a short-term, on-demand position in your field helps you further expand your network and keep your skills current, even if you hope to find a more permanent position soon.
Growing Importance of Emotional Intelligence and Likability
Emotional intelligence is the ability to regulate emotions and form strong, healthy interpersonal relationships, and companies are increasingly considering this valuable skill when making hiring decisions. Job seekers are following suit by working to build emotional intelligence and showcase it during job interviews. These same skills are also valuable when building your network during your job search. In addition to learning and practicing traits, such as humility and resilience, be sure to avoid behaviors that make you less likable.
Job search trends in 2017 show the importance of networking and building emotional intelligence and likability. If the process is taking longer than you'd like, consider a short-term gig to supplement your income while you build your network and seek stable employment opportunities.
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