Navigating Today’s Job Market: Tips for Career Pivots and Balancing Motherhood

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This job market is bananas. That’s a line I throw into a lot of my InMail messages. Why? Because it’s true! Vulnerability is key to being real with a recruiter or hiring manager. In a world full of AI, bad actors, and serial applicants, we’re all on a mission to make our name, experience, and desires stand out. So, instead of tiptoeing around, I’ve decided that transparency is my best policy. Being myself, sharing what I’m looking for, and even admitting that this job market IS bananas!

I recently had the chance to chat about these challenges and more on the “Mom’s Making Six Figures” podcast with Heidi Bartolotta. We dove into the current state of the employment arena, shared valuable tips on boosting resumes, explored strategies for career pivots and other leverageable job market tips, highlighted top LinkedIn influencers and resources, and of course, tackled the juggling act of being a professional and a mama. Here’s a fun recap of our conversation with some extra insights.

Current State of the Job Market

Today’s job market is dynamic and rapidly changing (read: bananas). High-demand industries like technology have seen massive layoffs. This means two things: the market is ripe for tech companies looking to hire incredible talent, and the competition is fierce for job seekers. While news stories often boast about lower unemployment rates and more job openings, I’m not seeing that in the white-collar world. Many of these new jobs are in the blue-collar space, which is great for many Americans, but not so helpful for those affected by tech layoffs. I often talk about not overlooking trade schools and apprenticeship programs. Having been laid off several times and being a working mom, I’ve even considered a job in waste management and sanitation. Those jobs always seem to be in demand and offer greater stability. As we look at the job market, we can also think about ways to pivot your experience into a different industry or career, because that’s what working mothers do!

Making a Career Pivot: Transferable Skills and Networking

Changing industries can be intimidating, but it’s totally doable with the right approach and a little bit of coaching. Here are some quick tips:

• Identify Transferable Skills: Look at your skills that work across various industries. Soft skills like leadership, communication, and problem-solving are gold everywhere. Other transferable skills include being data-driven, having a strategic mindset, and juggling multiple tasks.
• Education and Training: Take courses or get certifications relevant to your target industry. Online programs like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer flexible options.
• Networking: Build connections in the new field through events, LinkedIn, and industry-specific groups. Networking can provide valuable insights and job leads.
• Highlight Relevant Experience: Reframe your past experiences to match the new industry. Show how your background can bring a fresh perspective.
• Flexibility and Openness: Be open to entry-level roles in the new industry to gain experience and prove your capability.

Effective Resume Tips for Career Transitions

Your resume is your first impression with potential employers, so make it count. Here are some great resume tips for career changes:

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application to match the specific job description. Highlight relevant skills and experiences. Yes, it takes time, but it’s key, especially if you’re pivoting into a new industry. 
• Use keywords to beat the ATS: Use keywords from the job listing to ensure your resume passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) screening programs. This increases the chances of your resume being seen by a recruiter.
• Showcase Achievements: Use data to showcase your accomplishments. Did you save your company thousands of dollars? Add that! Did you speed up a task through strategic resource allocation? Include that! Quantify your achievements.
• Design + Layout: A clean, professional design makes your resume easy to read. Use bullet points, clear headings, and consistent formatting. Consider hiring someone to help create a couple of clean and concise versions of your resume.
• Continuous Updates: Regularly update your resume with new skills, certifications, and experiences. Updating your resume quarterly is a good habit to develop.

LinkedIn Influencers and Resources on the Job Market

Staying informed and inspired is easier when you follow the right people and resources:

• Linked Influencers: Follow profiles like Gary Vaynerchuk, Lars Schmidt, and J.T. O’Donnell for career advice and industry insights.
• Podcasts and Books: Expand your knowledge with podcasts like Life with Marianna, Interview Boss, and The Daily Stoic.
• LinkedIn Features: Utilize LinkedIn Learning for skill development and join LinkedIn Groups relevant to your industry for networking and support.

Tips for Working Moms to Balance Career and Family

Balancing a demanding career while being a mom is not for the faint of heart. Balancing motherhood and a career is challenging at the best of times, let alone in today’s competitive landscape! Here are a few strategies that could help you on your journey, including tips for balancing work and motherhood:

• Check-In with your Kiddos: No one is more honest about how you’re doing as a parent than your kids. So ask them! You do bi-annual check-ins with your boss, so why not make it a priority to ask your kids how you can show up better as a parent?
• Time Management: Prioritize tasks and set boundaries. Use tools like calendars and to-do lists to organize your day. Set your Slack to silence notifications outside of normal business hours. If possible, try not to download your work email on your phone. Keep family time sacred.
• Support Systems: Rely on your support system, whether it’s family, friends, or professional networks. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed!
• Self-Care: Make time for self-care. I find going for a hike, or even a walk around the neighborhood is helpful when I’m feeling overwhelmed. I believe humans are solar-powered, so I try to get outside as much as possible. For you, it might look different. It might be making time for a hobby, a workout, or a nice relaxing bubble bath. Just remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup, mama.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Be flexible with your schedule and adaptable to changing demands. Sometimes, things won’t go as planned – and that’s okay!
• Role Models and Inspiration: Look up to other professional moms who balance their careers and family life. Their stories can be motivating and instructive. None of us have it all figured out, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to balancing everything. But surrounding yourself with like-minded people will help you build your tribe and get you in the right direction. After all, you are who you spend most of your time with, right?

Conclusion: Staying Balanced in Career and Motherhood

Navigating the job market and balancing professional responsibilities with personal life is a challenging yet rewarding journey. Looking for more job market insights? Follow our blog for tips on career growth and balancing work-life demands for working parents. By staying informed, continuously improving your skills, and leveraging your network, you can thrive in your career. Remember, it’s about finding the right balance that works for you and being adaptable to change!