February Findings - Market Catchup

Welcome to our latest blog post, “February Findings – Market Catchup.” In this discussion, hosts Suki Stander and Tayla Allan from Montagu Group provide valuable insights into the current job market trends. They highlight the evolving dynamics post-COVID and offer practical advice for job seekers navigating the competitive landscape.

Introduction

The job market continues to shift, even years after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding these changes is crucial for both job seekers and employers. In this blog post, we’ll revisit key points from recent discussions and workshops, focusing on the increased selectivity of clients, the importance of tailored resumes, and the evolving criteria for shortlisting candidates.

Shifts in the Job Market Post-COVID

Increased Selectivity in Hiring

Suki Stander kicks off the discussion by noting a significant trend: clients have become more selective about the candidates they interview and shortlist. “Unlike a year or two ago, where almost anyone who sent in a resume got an interview, the criteria for shortlisting and interviewing candidates has become more stringent,” she explains. This change is driven by more talent entering the market and increased movement within it, prompting clients to be more discerning about their selections.

Emphasis on Detailed Position Descriptions

Tayla Allan adds, “I’d say about 90% of the time, clients want to see the position description before agreeing to interview a candidate.” This shift underscores the importance of clarity and specificity in job postings and resumes. Employers are not only looking for the right skill set but also for a personality and cultural fit, making it essential for candidates to tailor their applications accordingly.

The Importance of Tailored Resumes

Skills and Cultural Fit

Suki emphasizes that their first step in shortlisting candidates is to assess skills relevant to the role. However, cultural fit is equally important. “Our focus is to rule candidates in rather than out,” she says. Once they speak to a candidate, they evaluate both their skills and how well they align with the client’s culture and needs.

The Role of Selection Criteria

Recently, a government client requested selection criteria, which is not usually required. While it can be time-consuming, Suki notes, “If done right, selection criteria can add value to a resume.” This detailed approach allows candidates to showcase their experience in a structured manner, highlighting how they meet specific job requirements.

Practical Tips for Effective Resumes

Multiple Tailored Resumes

Tayla points out that many candidates have multiple resumes tailored for different positions. “Having one for business analysis, change management, and project management is crucial because it’s not just about showcasing your skills but also demonstrating how you fit into the culture of the organization.”

Highlighting Relevant Skills and Experience

When crafting a resume, it’s important to highlight relevant skills and experiences prominently. Tayla advises, “If you’re a software developer, make sure relevant skills like Java are highlighted.” Additionally, providing a brief description of the companies you’ve worked for, especially if they’re not well-known, can add context and make your resume stand out.

Aligning Job Titles

Job titles can vary significantly between sectors. Suki suggests aligning your job title with industry standards to ensure your resume comes up in searches. “Consider the job titles, as they can vary between government and the private sector,” she says.

Client-Specific Requirements

Specificity and Personal Connection

In recent weeks, clients have become more specific about their requirements, emphasizing the importance of a tailored approach. “It’s not just a tick and flick anymore. They want to feel a connection with the resume, and the way you present it can make a difference,” says Tayla. The visual appeal and wording of your resume matter, creating a feeling when the client looks at it.

Providing Feedback and Assistance

Both Suki and Tayla offer to help candidates refine their resumes. They stress the importance of getting feedback from a third party, even a friend, to improve your resume’s effectiveness. “If anyone wants feedback or assistance, they can reach out to us on LinkedIn or through our website,” says Suki.

Conclusion

Navigating the current job market requires a strategic approach. Tailoring your resume to highlight relevant skills and aligning with specific job requirements is crucial. Understanding the importance of cultural fit and being aware of the increased selectivity in hiring can help you stand out. For personalized feedback and additional resources, don’t hesitate to reach out to Suki and Tayla.

Key Takeaways

• Clients Are More Selective Post-COVID:

  Clients are becoming more discerning about the candidates they interview and shortlist. This trend underscores the importance of tailored resumes that highlight relevant skills and experiences.

• Tailoring Resumes Is Crucial:

  Having multiple tailored resumes for different positions and highlighting relevant skills are essential strategies. Providing context about previous employers and aligning job titles with industry standards can make your resume stand out.

• Importance of Cultural Fit:

  In addition to skills, cultural fit is crucial for securing a job. Tailoring your resume to reflect both your technical competencies and how you fit into the company culture can enhance your chances of success.

If you have a burning topic you’d like to discuss, don’t hesitate to reach out at hello@montagu.com.au.

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