This job market sucks. No point in sugarcoating it.
That being said, we’ve noticed with our clients that even in a tough employment landscape like the one we are in, mid- and senior-level professionals are succeeding in landing roles by doing a few different things, like responding to changing industries, using strategic methods, and taking advantage of growing opportunities.
What do I mean by that? Here are some ways and areas where our clients are succeeding:
1. Targeting Growth Sectors
Some industries are still experiencing strong growth, presenting opportunities for skilled professionals like:
-Green energy🌱: Senior-level green energy jobs have increased by 30%, driven by federal incentives and a push towards sustainability.
-Industrial Automation: Mid- to senior-level jobs in industrial automation have risen by 17% in top Midwestern states such as Ohio and Michigan.
-Marketing: Senior marketer positions increased 18.5% from the prior year, with significant growth in dual-role positions that need hybrid skill sets.
2. Adopting Skill-Based Recruitment
Employers are increasingly valuing skills over credentials, most notably in green jobs and jobs in AI. AI skills, for example, pay a 23% premium, above that of some advanced degree levels.
3. Capitalizing on Non-Traditional
These clients are venturing into unconventional areas to return to work like:
Returnships: Such programs as Ivee facilitate professionals coming back from career breaks, providing boot camps along with networking opportunities.
Veteran Transitions: Military veterans are being upskilled to work in jobs involving artificial intelligence and data centers, as firms are investing in training programs to fill talent gaps.
4. Networking and the Hidden Job Market
Much of the work opportunities are not openly advertised. Mid-level professionals are accessing this unsung job market by:
Informational Interviews: Talking to industry professionals to find unlisted jobs.
Referrals from employees: Employee referrals tend to perform better, so being connected is important.
5. Adapting Job Search Strategies
Execs are honing their methods to differentiate:
Tailored Resumes: Resumes written to fit job postings and defeat Applicant Tracking Systems (this is a given and should be done every time anyway).
Emphasizing Versatility: Both leadership and hands-on experience are highlighted to appeal to a wide range of jobs.
6. Navigating Economic Changes
Although there are challenges in the employment marketplace, there are encouraging signs:
Employment Increase: The United States created 228,000 jobs during March 2025, while unemployment remained at 4.2%.
Bureau of Labor Statistics Resilient Industries Stats:
- Health, welfare, and transportation industries continue to experience employment growth.
- Senior- and mid-level professionals are thriving in today’s employment landscape by driving growth industries, adopting skill-based recruitment, utilizing alternative routes, and making effective job searches a priority.
By being adaptable and taking a proactive approach, they are converting obstacles into opportunities and landing fulfilling and interesting jobs. It’s possible if you are adaptable and ready to change or pivot.