What do you do if your job search is becoming increasingly competitive?

This is might not be what you expect but from hiring top talent for over a decade, this is what I suggest - PAUSE. Doesn't mean forever but when we start to get consumed by the competition our brains are wanting to "win" verse taking a step back and reevaluating what we truly want. When we take the time to pause and reevaluate and make sure the job is 100% aligned to our values, our motivation to succeed comes from a very empowered place. not a place of lack. I get it, not having a job or wanting a new job cause cause stress/anxiety but imagine what it would be like to land a job thats not in true alignment to your values - disaster!

To stand out in an increasingly competitive job market, consider enhancing your qualifications through continuing education, be patient, and employ strategies like networking, tailoring your resume for each application, and showcasing unique skills or experiences that set you apart from other candidates.

Work on making yourself visible on Linkedin and within networking. 1. Optimise your profile on Linkedin 2. Showcase your skills and talents by writing and sharing content 3. Network online and offline with other people in your field of interest 4 . Be your authentic self

A few things to consider: 1. Define Your Brand: Identify your unique skills, strengths, and values that set you apart from others in your field. 2. Update Your Online Presence: Ensure your LinkedIn profile, personal website, and social media accounts reflect your brand consistently and professionally. 3. Showcase Achievements: Highlight your accomplishments, projects, and contributions in your resume, portfolio, and online profiles. 4. Share Relevant Content: Share industry insights, articles, and updates on your social media platforms to demonstrate your expertise and engagement in your field. 5. Network Strategically: Connect with professionals in your industry, join relevant groups, and participate events that are relevant.

Job search is always competitive. The key to standing out in any competition is to ensure you are marketing and selling your unique value to a highly targeted audience. You can't sell a boat to someone living in a desert. Well, you can; but they won't have much use for it and will regret the purchase. Here are 3 things you can do to stand out in a competitive job market: 1/ Understand what you offer a specific set of employers. 2/ Tailor your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile to show that audience exactly what's in it for them if they work with you. Make it clear, concise, and compelling. 3/ Network with the people working in the industry and companies you covet. Network with a 'give first' mentality. Onward!

Maybe it's time to stop following the application process and start thinking of creative ways to be put in front of that job opportunity. The people hiring are receiving hundreds and hundreds of CVs, and on paper, a lot of people look the same. So find out who is the hiring manager and try to contact them directly. Find other people working on the team and ask them about the position. The person hiring will be grateful because you just saved them tons of work from looking at lots of CVs and you also showed higher interest and resourcefulness. Good luck, you got this!

The job market is becoming increasingly competitive. It has never been more important to know who you are and what makes you different. Have confidence in the value you bring and seek after what sets your soul on fire. If your strategy is not in alignment with those factors, you will not be able to stand in your power and stand out from the rest.

To put it into a nutshell. A few easy-to-start steps as below: 1. Network actively to build connections. 2. Tailor your resume and applications to match each job's requirements. 3. Upgrade skills with relevant courses or certifications. Linkedin Learning, Udemy, Edx, Coursera as a few examples. 4. Use online job platforms and set up alerts. 5. Be open to alternative opportunities like freelancing. 6. Ensure a professional online presence, especially on LinkedIn. Stay active on Linkedin. 7. Seek assistance from career professionals if needed. The most important thing is to Stay persistent, set goals, and maintain a positive attitude.