Best tactics in this job market
- On September 13, 2025
It’s a weird market now. We are waiting on geopolitical stability, lower interest rates, and predictable tariffs and supply chains for a turnaround, which is a tall order! As a result “job seekers can’t rely on the usual tactics” per HR expert Morgan Williams. What should they be doing instead? Her article can be found here, but the key points are summarized below:
- Build your network before you need it. Yes. I agree “many people only reach out to their connections when they’re on the job market,” which can rub people the wrong way because it feels transactional. Start saying hello to folks now, and be authentic about it. Congratulate them on career successes (just look at LinkedIn for this!) and on their companies (read the paper!).
- When you reach out, do your homework first. Think about how you can show value to the person instead of simply asking for help. Also, “don’t spend too much time talking about [your] own career.” Instead, ask them questions because “people love talking about themselves, so you should allow them to.”
- Let go of perfection. Williams notes companies are offering lesser titles and lower pay, so job seekers need to be flexible with jobs offered. Don’t worry too much about the implications of an imperfect job in this market. I’ve been through multiple downturns in Silicon Valley and have seen employers be understanding of zigzags in careers as long as the applicants are able to explain concisely how their work lines up to the job in question.
I agree that the right intro can get you the job. Meanwhile, be prepared and flexible.
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