In today’s rapidly shifting economic landscape, many individuals find themselves navigating an increasingly uncertain job market. We find ourselves in an economy where job opportunities seem to shrink by the day standing out as a desirable candidate can feel like an uphill battle. Economic fluctuations, technological advancements, and global crises can all contribute to periods of high unemployment and job insecurity. However, even in the most challenging times, some strategies and practices can significantly enhance your employability. This will help explore actionable steps and insights to help one stand out and secure employment, even when the economy seems uncooperative.
Before understanding those strategies that enhance employability, it’s essential to understand the dynamics of an “Unemployed Economy.” Such an economy is typically characterized by high unemployment rates, limited job openings, and increased competition for available positions. In 1930, John Maynard Keynes wrote about “Technological Unemployment” in his essay “Economic Possibilities for Our Grandchildren,” predicting that technological advancements would reduce the need for human labor.
Despite these challenges of limited job openings, high unemployment rates, and increased competition for available positions, there are proactive measures you can take to increase your chances of securing a job. Here are some strategies;
In an economy, where job requirements are constantly evolving, staying relevant is crucial. Continuous learning involves consistently acquiring new skills and knowledge throughout your career. This strategy keeps you updated with the latest trends and technologies, making you adaptable to changing job market demands. Upskilling, on the other hand, focuses on enhancing your existing skills or learning new ones that are directly relevant to your current job or career path. Bernice Temitayo, an undergraduate of Mass Communication at Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State, who is a content writer, copywriter, and one who has an unbridled interest in media and communication, hits her first job online to write for an organization. This is a result of continuous learning and upskilling.
Online courses and certification are another effective strategy for enhancing employability, especially in a challenging job market. They provide flexible and affordable opportunities to acquire new skills or update existing ones, making individuals more attractive to potential employers. Online courses often specialize in knowledge in high-demand fields, while certification serves as formal recognition of expertise, boosting a candidate’s credentials and demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning. In a report by McKinsey & Company, up to 375 million workers may need to switch occupational categories by 2030 due to automation upskilling is vital to remain employable! such a transformative environment.
In an uncooperative economy that seems unemployable, networking and personal branding can be a crucial strategy for enhancing employability. Networking involves building and maintaining professional relationships. This can be done through attending industry events, joining professional associations, participating in online forums, and leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn. Networking can lead to job opportunities, mentorship, and valuable industry insights. While personal branding is about creating a distinct professional identity that sets you apart. It involves showcasing your skills, experiences, and values through a strong online presence, such as a professional website, a polished LinkedIn profile, and consistent relevant content sharing. Okonkwo Favour, an undergraduate of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Akwa, who is a professional graphic designer, is self-employed by building her personal brand of design named “Thehelpedone.”
Havard Business Review emphasizes the importance of networking, stating that 85% of jobs are filled through networking.
In a tough job market, being open to different opportunities can be beneficial. This is to say that, flexibility and adaptability can be a veritable tool for enhancing employability. Freelancing and Gig Work platforms like Upwork and Fiverr offer freelance opportunities that can provide income and reduce over-dependence. The following are some top freelance jobs in 2024; writing, editing, graphic design, web development, and social media marketing among others. Uzoma Oranebo, a business intelligence strategist and internet marketing consultant, who is the Executive Officer of “Bossuhzi Consulting Limited,” is one who hasoptimizee productivity to yield more profit, simply by being flexible and adaptable to business change.
While technical skills are critical, developing soft skills can be more beneficial, also serving as a veritable tool for making yourself employable in a challenging economy. Soft skills include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. These skills are highly valued by employers across various industries because they enhance workplace efficiency and foster a positive work environment. In a survey by LinkedIn, 92% of talent professionals and hiring managers agree that candidates with strong soft skills are increasingly important.
A focused job search can yield better results than a generic approach. In essence, tailoring your applications to specific roles and companies by searching companies, using relevant keywords from the job description in your resume to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), ensuring your resume and cover letters are professional, error-free, and highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences. In a study by Jobscan, resumes tailored to a specific job posting are 25% more likely to lead to an interview. Emmanuel Akpe, a Copywriter, speaker, and author hits reasonable business opportunities in his field, through the application of “Tailoring your job search.”
In conclusion, navigating an unemployable economy is undoubtedly challenging, but by taking proactive steps, you can significantly enhance your employability. Continuous learning, effective networking, adaptability, strong soft skills, and a tailored search are all crucial components of a successful job search strategy. By implementing these strategies, you can stand out in a crowded job market and increase your chances of securing meaningful employment, even in the toughest economic time.
– Stephen Joseph Musa
Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba/
(22MC1207).
