The labor market is strong and competitive, with millions actively looking for work. But simply sending out your resume in this tough labor market may not help you stand out. Experts say getting yourself noticed by potential employers requires the development of these much-needed skills while you execute your search.
You should have both soft and hard skills to get noticed, including attention to detail, communication, and strong tech skills.
Key Takeaways
- Millions of people are actively seeking employment, making the job market strong and competitive.
- Employers are focusing on skills-based hiring over traditional qualifications.
- Focus on how you can bring attention to detail, communication skills, the ability to work independently and with a team, and adaptability to potential employers.
- Tech skills are becoming a priority for many employers.
- Know who you are and tailor your resume to the job postings that catch your eye.
Job Hunting in 2025
Job seekers faced many challenges finding work in 2024, due largely to a weak global economy and general labor shortages across the board. Experts suggest this trend is likely to continue in 2025 as employers are still struggling to find and hire professionals.
“Skilled workers remain in high demand as companies ramp up their efforts to secure top talent,” Noelle Stagias, senior director at KForce. Even with high demand, she suggested, the talent pool continues to dog employers.
The ratio of unemployed individuals to job openings was 1 to 0.9, according to the Society for Human Resource Management’s (SHRM’s) January 2025 labor market report. As many as 22% of unemployed professionals carry over their job search from 2024 into 2025, while 28% say they’re giving up because of the tough labor market climate.
With so many challenges, it’s important to set yourself apart to get noticed among other job seekers in a demanding job market. But how do you do that?
If you’re looking for work, you’re not alone. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 5.5 million people actively sought employment in the United States in January 2025.
Focus on These Skills
According to research, as many as 95% of hiring employers are prioritizing skills-based hiring over traditional qualifications. That’s why it’s important for anyone looking for a new position to focus on soft and hard skills.
“There are a few key skills that companies in every industry are looking for: attention to detail, strong communication, ability to work both independently and in a team, and being coachable and adaptable,” according to Stagias. “These skills have always been desirable, and they stand out even more in the hybrid and remote world. Companies want employees who are proactive and can hit the ground running.”
With the rise in artificial intelligence (AI) and technology, it’s also a good idea to bring strong tech skills to the table. Be sure you’re prepared with knowledge of a new program if a job posting calls for it. Not only does it show employers that you’re willing to learn new programs, but it also demonstrates that you’re willing to adapt.
Stagias, who focuses on recruiting in finance and accounting, said hiring managers look for candidates who “present themselves as well-rounded, committed, and adaptable” and prove they can grow with the company. Review your resume to make sure it fits with the jobs you’re applying to so you can speak about it “in detail and bring (your) experience to life in an interview.”
Don’t forget to start your job search by knowing who you are as a professional. Understand what you bring to a potential employer, and look for positions that match your skill set.
10 Fastest-Growing Occupations and How Much They Earn
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks employment by sector, and by 2033, they predict these industries will have the highest employee demand. That’s contrasted with their current median annual wage. The jobs list is dominated by medical and technology fields.
- Home health and personal care aides: $33,530 per year
- Software developers: $132,270 per year
- Medical and health services managers: $110,680 per year
- Nurse practitioners: $126,260 per year
- Computer and information systems managers: $169,510 per year
- Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors: $53,710 per year
- Industrial machinery mechanics: $61,420 per year
- Data scientists: $108,020 per year
- Information security analysts: $120,360 per year
- Personal financial advisors: $99,580 per year
The Bottom Line
Despite the high demand for skilled workers, companies aren’t hiring just anyone. If you don’t have the skills they’re looking for, your job search could be for naught. Focusing on your soft and hard skills and tailoring your resume to the positions you’re applying to can help you get noticed.
Although your skills will set you apart from the pack, Stagias also says employers still want to see the “tried and true measures”. Notably, you bring a strong job history and demonstrate how you’ve taken on responsibility over time.
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