Why is it so hard to find a job now?
By Jeff Altman, Big Game Hunter
Why is it getting harder to find a job?
- Low heat/low hiring economy: fewer job postings, especially in technology and professional services
- Incomplete recruiting processes: The rise of ghost jobs (positions that don’t need to be filled) and AI-powered automated application bots has created huge friction, with 18-22% of jobs being fake
Solution: Company Forwarding Method: You have to target specific companies (Company Forwarding) to enter the hidden job market, not just apply for online jobs (Job Forwarding).
- Research: Create a list of 10-20 target companies based on mission and benefits
- Connect: Follow them on social media, find decision makers and build relationships on LinkedIn forward Job vacancies have been posted
Quick advice
- ABN (Always Be Networking): Make professional friends through real conversations, not just boring activities
- Keep your resume warm: Even if you have a job, keep it updated because finding a job now takes an average of seven months
- Transform if necessary: If your role is being downgraded by AI, consider a lateral move to a hotter industry
- Embrace AI: List AI literacy on your resume to show your willingness to work with tools like ChatGPT or any large language model
Conclusion: The 2026 market is skills-focused; companies care more about what you can do than your degree or past experience
Ⓒ Big Game Hunters, Asheville, NC 2026
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About Big Game Hunter Jeff Altman
People hire big game hunter Jeff Altman to provide no-BS career advice around the world because he’s done so much in people’s careers Easier. These matters may involve job hunting, Recruit more effectively, manage and lead better, career transition, and advice on solving workplace problems.
He is the host of “No BS Job Search Advice Radio,” the #1 job search podcast on iTunes with over 3,100 episodes.
The executive resume game is different
You’ll find important information to help you with your job search on my new website, JobSearch.Community In addition to video courses, books, and guides, I answer members’ questions about their job search every day. Leave your job search questions and I will respond every day. Becoming an Insider+ member gives you everything you get as an Insider+ member, plus you can connect with me via Zoom call to get your questions answered. Become an Insider Premium member and we offer individual and group coaching.
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Also, please subscribe to JobSearchTV.com on YouTube and No BS Job Advice Radiothe #1 job search podcast with over 3,100 episodes in over 12 years. On Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, Amazon Music, and almost anywhere you listen or watch podcasts.
You can also get your #jobsearchquestions answered on Tuesday at noon ET. Search for career coaching office hours on LinkedIn and mark that you are attending. If you miss the live broadcast, you can access the recording.
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