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Connecting with other job seekers who are navigating similar obstacles can make the journey easier. As a young alumnus recently shared, there’s real comfort in realizing you’re not alone – and reassurance that your new job is out there.

From navigating hiring practices that feel almost 100 per cent powered by AI – often without a single face-to-face interview – to making bold career shifts into new sectors or coping with unexpected layoffs, today’s job hunt demands resilience and a willingness to keep putting yourself out there. Every step is fueled by the hope of finding that one connection who can turn the tide from unemployed to employed.

Resumé writing and job searching require practical strategies to highlight your value and adapt to a market where most roles are filled through networking and referrals.

Resumé writing tips

With layoffs on the rise, it’s essential to have an up-to-date resumé that makes you stand out from the crowd, by presenting yourself as a problem solver and not just an applicant. Many people struggle with how to articulate their impact, resulting in resumés that list job responsibilities without demonstrating the true value of the work they’ve done. Communicate the problems you can solve, starting with a strong summary statement that captures “the best” of what you offer. Focus on what the employer needs and make them want to hire you to help achieve those goals.

Currently, 98 per cent of Fortune 500 companies use Automated Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumés, rejecting 75 per cent before human review. Therefore, it’s important to use an ATS-friendly resumé format and customize it using to include the skills listed in the job description. Your work history should reflect your accomplishments, with bullets listing the problems you solved, the actions you took to solve them, and the results. Use metrics to quantify your impact.

Job search tips

To stand out in today’s job market – where networking and referrals often lead to opportunities – focus on these practical strategies:

• Use Word format for resumés unless otherwise specified
• Highlight your impact and achievements rather than listing job duties
• Make networking a priority – by connecting with your LinkedIn network and requesting referrals and informational interviews
• Target companies and set job alerts on their Careers site
• Promote your skills on Facebook and Instagram;  
• Ask friends for referrals
• Network with ɬ�﷬ alumni via events or on ɬ�﷬Connect
• Search hashtags on Instagram, or LinkedIn using your desired job title (e.g. #webdesigner)

For more tips on job search techniques and resumé writing from Steven, check out our to download his resources or get in touch with Steven directly.