How Long Does It Take to Find a New Job?

Job Search Duration: Skills and Experience 

The length of your search can vary significantly depending on what you bring to the table.

Your Skills and Experience

It’s no surprise that your skills and experience level play a major role in how long your job search might take. Employers are looking for candidates who can hit the ground running and contribute meaningfully from day one.

There has been a noticeable shift in hiring priorities over recent years, with a growing emphasis on skills and experiences over traditional academic indicators like university prestige. An American Student Association (ASA) survey found that 80% of employers prioritize skills over degrees in the hiring process.

In other words, candidates who demonstrate the ability to apply their knowledge in practical settings have a leg up on the competition.  

Unmudl offers a variety of courses to help you gain the skills needed to transition into high-demand fields––including courses developed with Amazon.

Entry-Level vs. Experienced Roles

As a general rule, it tends to be faster and easier for entry-level candidates to find a new job compared to those with extensive experience. Finding the right, qualified candidates for senior-level roles requires more effort.  

That being said, according to the Society for Human Resource Management, it is becoming difficult for employers to find the talent they need to compete and grow. Depending on the role, entry-level positions, especially those requiring specialized skills, can be highly competitive too.

Developing a strong professional network and relevant skills will help get your foot in the door more quickly. And there are many platforms to help upskill yourself by taking a course and earning a certification. 

Courses on Unmudl’s unique Skills-to-Jobs® Marketplace, are specifically designed to connect you with employers directly. They provide a great starting point for those looking to deepen existing expertise as well as those launching new career paths.

Career Change

Let’s say you’re stuck in a job search rut. You’ve been searching for too long only to find a seemingly endless stream of ‘not a good fit’ replies. 

Many people find themself in this situation, and sometimes, a career change can be the key to unlocking new opportunities. According to data from the BLS, the average person in the US changes jobs more than 12 times throughout their career. 

While a career change might involve starting at a slightly lower level than you're accustomed to, it is an opportunity to gain valuable experience and build your skillset within a new field.

Switching industries can also lead to a faster job search, especially if you're targeting a high-growth field. It also showcases mastery of skills that are growing in importance. 

Financial Considerations

Let's be honest: changing careers usually requires an investment in new skills and competencies, sometimes when you are not employed. Add those up, and changing careers can become quite expensive. 

Unmudl courses offer free trial courses and potential reimbursement from partner companies that allow you to gain the skills you need to land your dream job without breaking the bank. Unmudl prioritizes practical learning that translates directly to higher earning potential. 

We understand that costs can sometimes be prohibitive, so we also provide financial assistance options.

Age and Career Change

There's a common misconception that it's too late to change careers later in life. An academic paper studying emotional well-being following a later life career change found that, despite their challenges, later life career changes often result in positive emotional outlooks.

In today's job market, when employers are increasingly valuing skills and experience over age, you’re never too old for a career change! 

If you have the necessary qualifications and the drive to succeed, you’re all set!

Does It Bring You Happiness?

Ultimately, the goal of your job search––however long––should be to find a position that not only pays the bills but also brings you a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Switching careers may be more than worth the effort if it leads to a happier career path. 

Factors Beyond Your Control

While your job search approach and qualifications play a major role, external factors do impact how long it takes to find a new position.

State of the Local Economy

The overall health of the job market in your geographic area is a key consideration. Does your region have high unemployment? Are the job opportunities concentrated in your industry?

Areas with a more robust local economy present more options for job seekers––which, for some, might mean relocating for a new job.

Hiring Freezes and Layoffs

Broader economic conditions can also influence job search timelines. During a recession or in times of uncertainty, many companies implement hiring freezes or even conduct mass layoffs.

This can make the job market significantly more competitive and drawn out during those stretches. If possible, wait to switch jobs under better conditions. 

Timing of Your Search

The specific timing of your job search can also affect its length. A Forbes article explains that companies slow down during the summer and holiday season, making January, February, and September the best months to get searching. 

Taking Control of Your Job Search

While there are certainly external factors beyond your control, there are many steps you can take to shorten your job search timeline.

The overall strategy you employ can also have a significant impact on your timeline. 

Crafting a Winning Resume

Your resume is often the first impression you'll make on potential employers, so it's crucial to get it right. 

Here are some proven tips to improve your resume:

• Focus on Achievements, Not Just Responsibilities: Quantify and delineate your accomplishments to demonstrate the tangible values you bring to the table.
• Tailor Each Application: Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific role.
• Proofread Carefully: Typos and grammatical errors undermine even the most impressive qualifications.

Leveraging Job Search Tools

Take advantage of digital resources and AI tools available to streamline your job search. Online job boards, applicant tracking systems, and AI-driven matching platforms can connect you to relevant opportunities and smoothen your application process.

Building Your Personal Brand

Your online presence, such as your LinkedIn profile and personal website, accurately reflects your skills and experience and can make you more discoverable to recruiters. 

If you’re up for an interview, you can bet your interviewer has had a look––whether cursory or in-depth––at your web presence. A strong personal brand leaps out of the screen.

Considering Temporary or Contract Work

While not ideal for everyone, taking on contract, temporary, or freelance assignments can be a great way to gain valuable experience, make connections, and maintain momentum while you continue searching for a permanent role.

Staying Organized and Focused

Over time, a job search can get overwhelming. Staying organized and focused can be a challenge. But you can be sure it will optimize your approach.

Keep detailed records of your applications, networking contacts, and interview feedback to identify patterns and adjust your strategy. 

Boost Your Credentials with Job-Focused Skill Training

Enhancing your skills and qualifications through additional training or certifications can make you a more attractive candidate. The right credentials can even help you change careers with no degree.  

57% of respondents in an Unmudl survey said they felt a lack of skills was holding them back from finding meaningful employment. Upskill yourself to stand out and open up new opportunities.

As you navigate the job search process, the type of training and resources you leverage make a difference. Programs specifically designed to directly connect you with employers can provide a distinct advantage.