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Looking for a job in a changing economy can create uncertainty and stress. As news of layoffs and inflation continues, finding a job may be more challenging for your student. Yet, your student can take steps to position themself to succeed.Ìý

While the circumstances in some fields aren’t ideal, many industries with open positions still want to employ new graduates. Career Services is here to help students understand the job search process and how to tap into resources and strategies to build confidence and open the door to opportunities.

Here are ways your student can enhance their job search in a shifting economy.

Seek jobs in stable or growing industries

Even in times of economic uncertainty, there will be companies still hiring. However, the competition for those jobs will likely increase. Your student can focus on industries that are consistently posting jobs.
While no industry offers total protection from layoffs, some industries typically have more stability. You can encourage your student to consider looking for education, government, health care and public safety jobs.

Expand their job search

If your student’s preferred industry or specific job type is experiencing a slowdown in hiring, they can consider alternatives where they can build transferable skills. Then when positions in their preferred sector become available, they can use their experience to bolster their resume.

Your student can focus on companies and transferable skills rather than job titles while searching for a position. They may discover roles where they have relevant transferable skills that are a different job title than they might have considered previously.

Be flexible

Consider non-traditional work options, like temporary, contract or freelance work. Temporary or contract positions offer a great way to develop skills and expand a professional network.Ìý
Freelance work and odd jobs can provide income while your student looks for a more stable, full-time position.Ìý

Students willing to relocate to an area with more job opportunities may find a position more aligned with their career goals. Your student can seek out geographic locations experiencing an increased demand for skilled workers.

Develop skills

Your student can stand out in the job search by developing needed skills. They can notice what skills appear in job postings and identify whether they need to grow those skills.

Career Services offers the Skills for Success program to help students identify their current skills and the skills they want to develop. The program can help students create a plan to develop those skills.

Build a network

Networking is always important for a job search, but it’s even more so when fewer available jobs exist. Your student can let family and friends know they are looking for a job and the type of job they desire. They can also connect with CU Boulder alumni on LinkedIn or the Forever Buffs Network.

Informational interviews allow students to learn more about a specific industry or company. They can hear firsthand what the hiring process looks like in that sector.Ìý

Use campus resources

Searching for a job, especially during economic uncertainty, can feel exhausting and discouraging. We want to encourage your student that they are not alone. Your student has a support system at CU Boulder and in their larger network.Ìý

If your student needs help getting started with their job search, they can reach out to Career Services, schedule an appointment with a career advisor or join the office hours on zoom.Ìý