Searching for work in 2024: Expanding your Sphere of Awareness

Let’s not mince words here: The 2024 job market sucks. I mean it REALLY sucks.

Economic uncertainty, technological disruption and shifting industry demands have left many professionals - especially those in white-collar industries - scrambling to find new opportunities. While it might be tempting to wait for things to “go back to normal,” the reality is that navigating this new world of work requires a proactive approach.

Four years ago, I wrote an article titled “Impacted by Covid-19” about how I scored a role in that market in early 2020 and the truth upon reflection is, that market was easy. I had something barely 2 weeks after finishing my previous employ. Fast forward to 2024 and getting into my 6th month of job searching, my mind was asking questions of myself that I didn’t want to answer. ‘Quitting’ was all I could think about some days... But with 3 young children and another on the way, the mental load almost broke me. Almost.

The old strategies of simply submitting resumes and hoping for a response won’t cut it. Instead, success lies in broadening your horizons, upskilling, and presenting yourself in ways that reflect the demands of today’s market. The key to thriving in these conditions is expanding your personal sphere of awareness.

Now that I’ve recently found new employment, I’d like to share some lessons learned through exploring five actionable steps you can take to rise above the competition in 2024.

1. Network, Network, Network: Elevate Your LinkedIn Game

In a job market where opportunities are increasingly scarce, who you know can be just as important as what you know. Networking is not just a supplementary skill - it’s a core strategy. This is especially true on LinkedIn, where over 90% of recruiters actively search for candidates before roles are even advertised.

If you’re not already using LinkedIn to its full potential, now is the time. Start by lifting your profile to reflect the kind of candidate employers are looking for. Your headline and summary should articulate not just your past experiences, but the value you can bring to a future employer. Highlight specific achievements and, more importantly, show how those experiences can translate to the challenges businesses are facing today.

Look to industry influencers like Charlie Hills who regularly shares tips on how to build meaningful LinkedIn connections. Follow professionals in your field, engage with their posts, and make your presence known. But remember—networking isn’t just about collecting connections, it’s about building relationships. Meaningful conversations, thoughtful comments, and sharing valuable insights can turn online acquaintances into real-world opportunities.

Additionally, join LinkedIn groups that align with your profession or industry. These groups provide a platform for discussions and shared content that can introduce you to new ideas and, more importantly, new contacts. Networking, when done right, opens doors you didn’t even know existed.

2. Study a New Certification or Two: Stay Ahead of the Game

When the job market tightens, employers tend to raise their expectations. Hiring managers are no longer just looking for qualifications; they’re seeking candidates who are actively improving themselves. Upskilling is a signal that you are committed to staying ahead of industry trends, and certifications are a tangible way to demonstrate this.

Start by identifying skills that are in demand in your industry. For example, if you work in IT or Risk Management, pursuing an ISO 27001 Certification can significantly enhance your credentials. ISO 27001 is the gold standard for information security management, and with the rising importance of cybersecurity, having this on your resume can set you apart.

Alternatively, for those in business process or project management, certifications in widely-used platforms like monday.com are increasingly valuable. Many businesses are adopting these tools to streamline their operations, and being certified in their use demonstrates your proficiency in the systems that modern companies rely on.

Certifications don’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses that can be completed in your own time and at a reasonable cost.

Even if you’re not actively searching for a new role, obtaining new certifications positions you as someone who is constantly evolving, making you more attractive to potential employers.

3. Work Out Four Days a Week minimum: Energise and Elevate Yourself

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Let’s be clear - this isn’t just about physical fitness. Regular exercise boosts mental and emotional resilience, both of which are critical when you’re navigating a tough job market. It’s easy to fall into a spiral of frustration and self-doubt when your job search takes longer than expected, but maintaining a consistent exercise routine can help you stay energised and focused.

Find a form of exercise that works for you. Whether it’s lifting weights, running, swimming, or even yoga, the key is consistency. Aim for at least four days a week to create a structured routine that keeps your energy levels up. This physical discipline often carries over into other aspects of your life, helping you stay motivated during your job search.

Exercise also provides an outlet for stress, which can help clear your mind and give you the mental clarity needed to navigate interviews, negotiations, and networking. When you’re physically active, you’re not just building strength and endurance - you’re cultivating the energy you need to put your best self forward.

4. Learn a New Skill: Master Public Speaking

In a competitive job market, effective communication is more important than ever. Being able to articulate your ideas clearly and confidently can set you apart from other candidates. This is particularly true for leadership roles, where public speaking and presentation skills are highly valued.

If public speaking isn’t one of your strengths, there’s no better time to develop it. Joining an organisation like Toastmasters International can provide you with a supportive environment where you can practice and refine your speaking abilities. Whether you’re presenting in a boardroom, pitching to clients, or simply selling your value in an interview, confident communication is key.

Toastmasters is known for helping professionals at all stages of their careers develop strong speaking skills. Alternatively, online platforms like Skillshare or MasterClass offer courses that can help you improve everything from presentation skills to negotiating effectively. Learning to speak with confidence in both virtual and physical settings can significantly increase your chances of standing out in a crowded job market.

5. Build Your Own Website: Create Your Personal Brand

In 2024, having a strong online presence is no longer optional - it’s essential. And while LinkedIn is a powerful tool, building your own website is one of the most effective ways to showcase your personal brand. Think of it as your digital portfolio. It’s a space where you can present not just your resume, but your entire professional story.

Take inspiration from people like Dan Koe , who advocate for creating a “one-man business.” The idea isn’t just about starting your own company, but rather about positioning yourself as a thought leader or an expert in your field. A personal website allows you to share case studies, write blogs, display your certifications and provide potential employers with a deeper understanding of your skills and achievements.

Building a website doesn’t have to be complicated. Platforms like Wix, Squarespace, and WordPress make it easy to create a clean, professional site without any coding knowledge. Your website can be as simple or as detailed as you like, but the most important thing is that it reflects who you are and what you can bring to the table.

A personal website not only sets you apart from other candidates, but it also provides an opportunity to build your own brand. Employers will appreciate the initiative, and it might even lead to new opportunities beyond traditional employment, such as consulting or freelance work.

Conclusion: Expand Your Awareness to Find Success

The job market in 2024 may be tough, but it’s not impossible to navigate. By expanding your personal sphere of awareness - through networking, upskilling, maintaining physical fitness, improving communication, and building your personal brand - you position yourself as a proactive, forward-thinking candidate.

The most important thing is to take action. Each of these steps, though small in isolation, builds momentum when combined. In today’s competitive environment, it’s the candidates who are willing to push themselves beyond their comfort zones who will find success.

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Take that first step. It might just lead you to the opportunity you’ve been searching for.