Sourcing Work in a Tight Labour Market: Strategies for Success

The past year has seen a rise in unemployment rates, with a 12% increase in the number of people receiving the job seeker benefit (NZ Herald, 17/3/25). As the labour market becomes more competitive, job applicants face growing challenges. With organizations struggling to find qualified candidates, those looking for work must adapt in order to stand out.

Key Strategies for Success:

1. Focus on What You Can Control

• Develop a structured weekly planner, treating your job search as a full-time job. Allocate specific hours each week for job applications, research, and networking. Balance this with personal time for hobbies, exercise, and connecting with loved ones to maintain your energy and mental well-being.

2. Polish Your CV

• Tailor your CV to highlight the skills in demand and emphasize what makes you stand out. Focus on showcasing your strengths and the unique qualities that set you apart from other candidates.

3. Prepare for Interviews

• Practice your interview skills and be ready to tell personal stories that highlight your expertise. Knowing your key achievements and experience inside and out will help you confidently present yourself to potential employers.

4. Expand Your Network

• Reconnect with former colleagues, associates, and professional groups. Leverage community resources such as Meet Up groups and Neighbourly NZ. Attend industry seminars, business events, and local networking groups to uncover job opportunities and build valuable connections.

5. Master Informational Interviewing

• Identify companies you're interested in and engage with them, either in person or via LinkedIn. Informational interviews allow you to gather insights about companies and create relationships that could lead to future job offers. Keep track of your interactions in an organized way, like using an Excel spreadsheet.

6. Stay Informed and Upskill

• Keep up with industry trends and continue to expand your skill set through micro-credentials or online learning. Staying current in your field makes you more competitive and appealing to employers.

7. Broaden Your Work Opportunities

• Consider freelance, contract, or temporary positions as a way to gain experience, earn income, and keep building your career while continuing your search for permanent employment.

8. Be Proactive and Flexible

• Job seekers today need to be proactive, adaptable, and inventive. If your current approach isn’t working, change your strategy. Persistence is key: "The squeaky wheel gets the oil."

By implementing these strategies and being open to new approaches, job applicants can succeed in a competitive job market.

Finding Your Path: How Career Coaches Are Shaping Today’s Workforce

In today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving job market, where factors such as AI, nanotechnology, robotics and the emergence of the hybrid workplace influence how, when and where we work many job applicants are seeking guidance to help navigate their career paths. In fact, with the rapid changes that are changing the face of many workplaces today it has become difficult to distinguish between short-term fads and actual opportunities for positive change.

The answer to the challenges - that recent graduate entering the workforce, mid-career professionals applying for promotion, or seasoned job applicants transitioning to a new industry face - is to engage a career coach.

One of the most significant benefits of career coaching is the sense of clarity it can provide. Many individuals struggle with figuring out their next career move or understanding what truly aligns with their skills and values A career coach works closely with individuals over a number of sessions to assess their strengths, interests, and goals, helping them to identify the right path forward. This personalized approach helps individuals better understand their options, resulting in more informed decisions that lead to sustainable and meaningful work.

A career coach can provide valuable support for individuals that are going through a career transition. Career transitions, whether voluntary or not, can be one of the most stressful times in a professional’s life. Whether transitioning from one industry to another, seeking advancement within a current company, or navigating a job loss, career coaching offers the support needed to manage these changes. Coaches help individuals understand how to translate existing skills into new roles, prepare for interviews, and set realistic goals to make the transition smoother.

One of the unique aspects of career coaching is the accountability it provides as the job search and career advancement process can often be filled with self-doubt . Having someone to check in with regularly helps to keep individuals motivated and on track toward achieving their goals. A coach can help individuals break down larger objectives into manageable steps, ensuring consistent progress and preventing procrastination. This level of support is particularly useful for those who struggle with self-discipline or find it difficult to stay focused on long-term career goals.

Furthermore, there are times when individuals are too close to their own career situation to see it clearly. A career coach provides an objective perspective that can be crucial for overcoming blind spots. Whether you’re unsure about your current job, considering a career change, or unsure how to negotiate a salary, a coach offers unbiased advice that is tailored to your personal goals and circumstances.

In conclusion engaging a career coach is not just for those in crisis; it’s for anyone looking to enhance their professional journey. In an ever-changing job market, personalized guidance can provide clarity, motivation, and the tools needed to succeed. Whether you’re planning your next career move or simply seeking ways to advance in your current role, career coaching is an investment in your future that can pay dividends for years to come.