| |

Career Planning and Job-seeking Strategies are Failing

ByJan Viljoen

The workplace has undergone significant changes since 1990, primarily due to technological advancements. During my 30 years as an Educational Psychologist providing career guidance services, I’ve witnessed these transformations firsthand. The job market today is vastly different from what it used to be, and relying on outdated career planning and job-seeking strategies is not just ineffective; it’s potentially disastrous.

Understanding the Shift

Research and statistics highlight a stark reality: the percentage of employers struggling to find suitable candidates has soared from 36% in 1990 to 76% in 2024. Job seekers, especially first-timers, now face an average job search time of nearly two years, up from three months. These figures are not just numbers; they are a wake-up call. The conventional method of earning a qualification, preparing a CV, applying for advertised positions and then waiting for a job offer, yields minimal results and no longer ensures any success.

The Crisis in Numbers1
  • Employers’ Hiring Difficulties: 36% (1990) to 76% (2024)
  • Job Search Duration: 3 months (1990) to 2 years (2024)
  • Job Dissatisfaction: 5% (1990) to 57% (2024)
  • Unemployment Rate: 0.01% (1990) to 7% (2024)
  • Education and Training Costs: Increased by 160% from 1990 to 2024

These statistics reflect a broken system, globally2. Despite increased investment in education, the disconnect between job seekers and employers is growing. Employers are inundated with CVs but find few qualified candidates. Conversely, job seekers face disheartening rejection rates.

The Need for a Paradigm Shift

The traditional job search model — earning degrees, polishing CVs, and applying en masse — no longer cuts it. This passive approach, waiting for the right opportunity, is outdated. It’s time for potential and current job seekers to take control and spearhead their own career paths.

Leading Your Career Expedition
  1. Early Career Planning: Start planning your career as early as possible, with Grade 9 being an excellent time to begin by making thoughtful subject choices. By understanding the evolving job market, you can align your skills to match future opportunities.
  2. Skills Over Degrees: Focus on acquiring practical, in-demand skills rather than accumulating degrees. Employers value relevant experience and capabilities over formal qualifications.
  3. Continuous Learning: The pace of change in the workplace requires continuous learning. Stay updated with industry trends and technologies.
  4. Network Actively: Build and nurture professional networks. Many job opportunities arise through connections rather than job boards and recruitment agencies.
  5. Tailored Applications: Customise your applications for each job. Highlight how your specific skills and experiences meet the employer’s needs.
  6. Embrace technology: Use digital tools and platforms to enhance your job search. Online courses, webinars, and professional social networks are invaluable resources.
Self-Reliance and Proactivity

You can’t wait for the system to fix itself. Each individual must actively shape their career. This means taking a proactive approach to deciding, preparing, learning, networking, and applying for jobs. Don’t become another statistic; stand out by leading your own career path expedition.

The Key Question

Ask yourself: “Am I going to take charge of my career, or will I become part of the growing statistical trend of job seekers struggling in the current market?“

Making this choice is straightforward and clear-cut; it doesn’t require rocket science. It’s time to step up and take charge of your career planning and job-seeking strategies today. The earlier you begin, the more swiftly and confidently you’ll navigate and excel in today’s dynamic job market.

  1. Statistical Resources: ManpowerGroup Talent Shortage Report and Our World in Data. ↩︎
  2. Statistical averages are calculated globally. It’s important to remember that these figures reflect worldwide averages, and each country’s statistics can diverge significantly from these global norms due to unique local factors.. ↩︎

Stay up-to-date and never miss an article! Join our mailing list for more helpful insights straight to your inbox.

Words of Wisdom

"In school, you’re taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you’re given a test that teaches you a lesson."

Tom Bodett

Similar Posts