Navigating the Noise: Finding Your Control in a Tough Job Market

Posted on May 24, 2025 by Amanda V. Gill, One of Thousands of Career Coaches on Noomii.

But here’s the thing: you’re not alone as you navigate a job market that feels like it’s playing a cruel game of musical chairs. And in the midst of all this chaos, it’s easy to feel like you have absolutely zero control. That’s when it’s essential to shift our focus. Here’s how:

Understanding Your Span of Control

Think of it like this: there are things you can control, and things you absolutely cannot, so let’s break it down:

Things You Can’t Control:

The overall state of the economy.
Whether a company decides to do layoffs.
How many other people are applying for the same job.
The hiring manager’s mood on any given day.

Things You Can Control:

Your resume and cover letter.
Your networking efforts.
The skills you develop.
How you prepare for interviews.
Your attitude and mindset.
How many applications you send out.
Your follow up.

It’s about focusing your energy where it actually matters. It’s so easy to get bogged down in the “what ifs” and the “if onlys,” but that’s a one-way ticket to burnout.

So, how can you put this into practice? Here are a few things to consider:

Refine Your Tools:

Your resume and cover letter are your first impression. Make sure they’re polished and tailored to each job you apply for. Use action verbs and highlight your accomplishments.

Have someone else read them and provide feedback.

Utilize Gen AI (Gemini, CoPilot, ChatGPT). Be sure to read through all responses, checking for accuracy while customizing to your voice.

Network, Network, Network:

I know, it’s the advice everyone gives, but it’s true! Connect with people in your industry on LinkedIn, attend virtual networking events (Meetup), and reach out to your existing contacts. You never know where your next opportunity might come from.

And don’t just connect on LinkedIn, engage. Comment on posts, ask questions, and offer helpful insight. It’s a social media platform at the end of the day designed for professionals to connect, build their network, find jobs, and learn about industry trends.

Upskill and Reskill:

Use this time to learn new skills or brush up on existing ones. Online courses, webinars, and certifications can make you a more attractive candidate.

Look for free or low cost options. Many online platforms offer free trials, or free course options.

Here are a few to check out:

Coursera
Udemy
Linkedin Learning
Alison
EdX
Skillshare
Udacity
Realizeit

Practice Your Interview Skills:

Record yourself using Zoom (free version) answering interview questions based on the job you’re applying for. Record this and play it back so you can take note of how you answer, the length of your answers, how your background looks and how you present yourself. You can ask for feedback as well. Be sure to practice using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to tell compelling stories about your experience.

Do mock interviews with a friend or mentor.

Maintain a Positive Mindset:

This is easier said than done, but it’s crucial. Surround yourself with positive people, take breaks when you need them, and celebrate your small wins.

Track your applications and follow up:

Create a spreadsheet or use a tool (Teal) to track every job you apply for. Include the date, company, job title, and the status of your application.

Following up after an interview or application shows your continued interest.

Remember your worth:

Layoffs, rejection letters, ghosting etc. are not a reflection of your worth. You are talented, capable, and valuable. The right opportunity is out there.

Job hunting in a tough market is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be good days and bad days. There will be rejections, and there will be moments of doubt. But by focusing on what you can control, you can stay positive, productive, and ultimately, land the job you deserve.

Remember, you’ve got this.