How to Make the Most of Your Job Search When Unemployment is Low

How to Make the Most of Your Job Search When Unemployment is LowHow to Make the Most of Your Job Search When Unemployment is LowHow to Make the Most of Your Job Search When Unemployment is LowWith low unemployment creating a multitude of opportunities for job seekers, heres how to leverage this strong economy during your job search.According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, unemployment among American workers stands at 3.9 percent the lowest in nearly two decades. Low unemployment and an increase in the number of available jobs has created a market that favors job seekers. However, that doesnt mean you should stick to the same job-search strategies that might have worked during an economic downturn. When the job-search scales are balanced in your favor, here are four things you can do to make the most of it.Apply for reach jobsWith the number of available jobs at a high, that gives job seekers more freedom during their searches. Knowing that you have room to play with means t hat you can apply to jobs that are typically a stretch for you regarding qualifications and experience and employers are more likely to consider you because they have a number of roles to fill.For example, if your management experience is limited to mentoring others or leading projects, you might still be a good fit for a team management position. Companies who are having a tough time finding and keeping experienced managers may consider you for a management role and provide management and leadership training to fill the gap.Dont settleIn this economic climate, there are many open positions available, so you have the luxury of shopping around and considering only those positions that deliver what youre looking for in a job. You can limit your job search to those positions that offer the best commute, compensation, and career-growth opportunities for you.While its never a good idea to take an interview or job offer for granted, it does make sense to set the bar high for your next po sition and negotiate the best possible offer. Highly qualified talent is hard to find, so when you know youre worth it, make it clear to hiring managers what you want and need in your next role.Continue building your networkYour professional network is a valuable source of advice, personal introductions, and information sharing. In fact, your network can be your secret weapon for a successful job search in good times and bad. During an economic downturn when jobs are scarce, your network might be the only reliable source for discovering and being considered for new job opportunities. On the other hand, in a strong economic climate, there will be many other avenues besides your network to help with your job search.RelatedThe Importance of Networking (And How to Do It Well)Even when times are good, however, dont forget your network. You might not need to call in a favor from your network now, but youll need to stay connected so that youll have options if you need later on. No matter the current economic environment, it makes sense to continually make new introductions, give and receive advice, and deepen pre-existing relationships.Think about a career reinventionIn a strong economy, companies are growing and adding new jobs to accommodate their expansion. If youve been thinking about changing industries or pursuing a different career, now may be the time to act. Jobs are plentiful across a range of industries. For example, the education and health services sector alone created more than 54,000 jobs in July 2018.While pursuing a different career comes with some associated risks, you can improve your chances of success by exploring your options when employers are in aggressive hiring mode rather than when theyre cutting back. Your current employer may also be adding jobs and have opportunities available internally. For example, if youre in a sales role but would like to gain experience in data analysis or research, there may be an opportunity to rotate into a dif ferent department within your current company. Alternatively, if youre interested in launching a new career in another industry, the plentiful supply of available jobs will give you more opportunities to choose from.A job search in any economy presents unique challenges and opportunities for candidates and employers. During times of job growth, its a sellers market that benefits job seekers. You can make the most of a favorable job market by carefully considering your options, aiming high, and remaining open to new paths to job-search success.Click on the following link for more job-search advice.Is your resume ready for this favorable job market? Check with a free resume review todayRecommended ReadingFrom Lemons to Lemonade Turn Job Rejection Into OpportunityWhat You Should Consider Before Switching CareersAsk Amanda How Do I Kick-Start My Job Search?