Originally shared via email. For early access to UN job search success tips and advice, subscribe to the newsletter here.

Today's impact job market is testing everyone’s resilience. Just this week, I heard from two clients whose UN recruitment processes were suddenly canceled. So, the next Ask-Me-Anything question I received feels more relevant than ever:

How to navigate the difficult job market, and what options are there aside from the classical impact jobs?

Turns out I had a lot to say, so I decided to divide this question into two so it doesn't turn into too long of a read. In this email, I'll focus on navigating the difficult job market.

From what I hear, many national job markets are also tough right now, and unfortunately, none of us are granted immunity to macro-level shifts. So, here are some of my thoughts on navigating this time:

Diversify, diversify, diversify

Don’t keep applying to the same types of roles, in the same types of organizations. Even if the UN is your main goal, now is not the time to limit yourself – especially if you're not currently working. You build more transferable skills and competencies in any job, than in no job. Sometimes, we just need to stay afloat – and that's OK!

Focus on fit

The market is flooded with experienced and highly qualified impact professionals right now. So, when you apply for jobs in the impact sector, focus on the roles where you are a strong fit and can make a credible argument for why you make sense for the hiring unit. If you're not a strong fit to begin with, you're more likely than ever to have a line of well-qualified candidates ahead of you. Spend your time on other applications instead.

Break ranks

If you’re bored with your CV or cover letter, chances are the reader will be too.
Shake it up. Professional doesn’t have to mean stiff, and personable isn’t the same as personal. Sometimes the best strategy is to scrap your old CV and cover letter and start from scratch. What do you find interesting about your own work history? What stories are you excited to tell? What accomplishments are you proud of?

Let me share a quick story:

As in many places, every new school year here in Sweden, there’s a scramble for student housing. Ads flood the internet with identical reassurances: non-smoker, no pets, no parties, no late payments. This September, one woman decided to try something different. She posted an ad saying she was a chain-smoker with a history of late payments – and a dog (only the last one being true). She had a fantastic response and quickly found a place for herself – and her dog. You can read her story here (in Swedish, but your browser will translate).

While I'm not suggesting you use reverse psychology and irony in your job applications, we can absolutely be inspired by her approach to invigorate our applications with energy and authenticity. 

Stay connected
Unemployment hits us hard. Not just financially, but there is something about feeling "unwanted" by the market that affects our sense of identity, confidence and self-esteem. The best antidote I know is to stay closely connected to people who know you professionally, and can keep reminding you of what you're capable of.

Shout from the rooftops

It's natural to want to hide when we're out of work (see point above). Many hesitate to turn on the #Opentowork feature on LinkedIn, feeling it signals "unwanted" rather than "amazing individual available to add value!" But this is what LinkedIn and other networks are for. Letting people know is the only way your "weak ties" can be activated (see recent blog post here). Go against your inclination to isolate and get visible!

If you've found ways to navigate this job market that has helped you, email me at info@koachr.global and tell me what's worked for you. I'd love to share it (anonymously if you prefer) in a future email.

And next week I’ll cover the second half of this question: What options are there aside from the classical impact jobs?

Until then, stay connected – and be loud!

PS. If you need a bit of clarity or encouragement, you know where to find me! My services are listed here.