How is job searching during an election year different?
You may want to revamp your job search strategy and career collateral (resume, LinkedIn, bios, etc.) during an election year as policy changes and market uncertainty slow decision making.
Prolonged Hiring Processes
We can anticipate longer and slower hiring processes during an election year. This affords both sides of the hiring process more opportunity to ensure the right fit. For candidates, this might mean looking more closely into company culture, asking what it takes to succeed within the organization, and taking time to gather insights from past and current employees.
On the hiring side, this might mean more time to vet candidates. During an election year, we often see increasing concern around polarized workplaces in which employees fear retribution for speaking up. (https://seramount.com/articles/navigating-the-election-year-in-the-workplace/)
You will be researched by hiring organizations, so carefully audit your socials. Keep content positive and consider taking down posts that could be polarizing.
More Fractional and Interim Positions
We often see an uptick in flexible staffing solutions, interim roles, and short-term / fractional roles during an election year. This allows organizations to meet demand with less overhead and risk. Organizations will want to watch for changes impacting taxation, insurance requirements, trade agreements, and more. Other factors that may improve or impede business performance include job creation policies as well as how easy or difficult it may be to start a business.
Small businesses and entrepreneurs may be even more cautious about hiring decisions as they assess how policy changes may impact the business. (https://www.staffingagenciesca.com/single-post/should-election-year-affect-hiring-decisions)
Aversion to Risk
Job seekers may find hiring authorities more averse to risk. A Duke University study found, “47% of CFOs cite political uncertainty” as a reason to pull back on hiring. (https://www.ellevatenetwork.com/articles/7728-how-the-election-results-could-affect-hiring) Industries most often impacted by election cycles include healthcare, energy, and finance.
If you find yourself having a hard time gaining traction in those areas, consider focusing on transferrable skills and targeting less vulnerable sectors. (https://www.therightstaff.com/2024/02/21/the-impact-of-election-year-on-the-workforce-insights-for-business-leaders-and-job-seekers/)
Adaptability & Impact
Versatility and measurable impact will help you stand out as an exceptional candidate in an election year. Hiring authorities are more likely to respond favorably to a candidate seen as someone capable of adapting to drive business results regardless of market conditions or policy changes. Demonstrating concrete business impact through metrics is another method to cut through the noise and build confidence that you can drive progress in a way that translates to business growth and profitability.
Adjust Your Strategy
Expect more touchpoints in the hiring process. This might translate to more interviews, greater need for follow up, or providing additional pieces of collateral. With a longer hiring process, you may also consider accepting a gap job, taking on consulting work, or accepting a fractional role to continue contributing to your field.
Some may find the need to adjust target roles based on market demand. Focus on transferrable skills over industry to make the most of this type of career move. Showcase a history of versatility and impact through the career stories shared in your resume, LinkedIn profile, networking conversations, and interviews to stand out as a top candidate.
For more conversation around this topic, check out my interview with Loren Greiff, host of Career Blast in a Half. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happy-election-year-i-what-does-this-mean-for-your/id1670977528?i=1000668315077
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