Handle yourself in the changing market

Woody Allen once  quipped that “90% of success is showing up.” We can, of course, debate the exact statistic, but in today’s job market, the principle still holds. Especially in 2025, when it’s tempting to feel overwhelmed or invisible, consistently showing up to learn, connect, or to showcase yourself, is still one of the strongest moves you can make

The landscape is shifting: AI is streamlining tasks, competition is rising, and traditional routes in are changing at a fast pace. Yet, that doesn’t mean there’s no path forward. It's more that your approach needs to evolve.

If you're making a career move, hoping to return after a break, or just want to stay ahead, up-to date strategies can help you stand out and move forward.

Here are five up-to-date job search strategies to help you stay visible, build momentum, and show employers not just what you’ve done, but what you’re ready for.

1. Learn to Work With AI, Not Against It

AI isn’t just changing jobs, it’s changing how we apply for them. ELE Hub recently addressed this in two posts (you can find them here-part 1 and here-part 2). Tools like ChatGPT can accelerate your search. Yet, it’s not about outsourcing your brain. Your edge lies in showing good judgment in adapting AI suggestions to sound like you, spotting any flaws or missing tone (see below).  It's about using it to stay focused rather than overwhelmed.

Tip: Try using AI to break down a job description, generate a first draft of your cover letter, or summarise a company’s recent news.

2. Show Them, Don’t Just Tell What You Can Do

It's a crowded market and, saying you're adaptable or a quick learner isn't enough. Employers want evidence. That’s why one of the biggest shifts is toward showing your skills in action, especially if you don’t have traditional experience in a new field.

You can do this by:

• Sharing project work online (even if self-initiated)

• Volunteering your skills in a practical way (e.g., redesign a community newsletter or help a local business with outreach)

• Creating a simple case study or reflection post to demonstrate how you think

  
  

Once you’ve started using AI for small tasks, it’s time to show what you’re learning — even if you’re not in a new role yet.

3. Tailor Everything (Even the Small Stuff)

Those generic applications are easier than ever to spot, especially with AI screening tools.  One example of an overused AI signature is the double dash (known as 'Em').  This isn't immediately available on most keyboards (without pressing some extra keys), yet Chat GPT loves it. Don't just offer up what it gives you - redraft it.

Tailoring doesn’t mean rewriting everything from scratch, but it does mean:

• Matching your language to the job description (without overdoing it)

• Explaining why this company or role matters to you

• Being specific about how your skills fit their challenges or goals

  
  

Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to shape your examples — especially for CV bullet points or interview prep.

4. Don’t Ignore Hidden Routes In

Not all jobs are advertised, and not all routes in are obvious. 2025’s job search rewards curiosity and connection. Here are some ways you can keep active that aren't just about sitting there and filling in an application form:

• Reach out to people doing the job you want (via LinkedIn, alumni networks, events)

• Attend informal or online meetups in your target sector

• Join a relevant Slack groups, newsletter, or communities where jobs and gigs are shared before they're listed

• This doesn’t mean cold-pitching yourself. It's more about learning, building rapport, and getting visible in the right places.

5. Stay Grounded but Future-Focused

With uncertainty in the market, it’s easy to feel stuck or reactive. One of the best strategies is to focus on building momentum. Small wins can compound over time.

That could mean:

• Taking on a short course or certification that genuinely helps you get closer to your goal

• Documenting what you’re learning (in public or private)

• Celebrating progress: the email you sent, the thing you finished, the feedback you got

Last Thought:

Job searching in 2025 isn’t just about keeping up. It’s about staying real. The tech may change, but what employers value most hasn’t. Curiosity, communication, initiative, and care are important attributes. If you can show that and you keep showing up, you’re already ahead.

If you are struggling with your job search and are feeling lost in the today's modern job market, you don't have to do it alone. Book a free consultation to discuss your Personalised Job Search Support needs today.