What Job Seekers Should Know in 2022

As you likely already know, the job market is currently full of opportunity. Nearly every company is hiring and offering better pay and benefits than they ever have before, in efforts to bring in more employees. This means that right now, job seekers have the opportunity to request more out of the companies they receive offers from, than they have in the past.

Additionally, hiring managers are currently being more flexible with requirements and allowing candidates with lesser experience to come onboard. However, lately there has been a frequent discrepancy between what companies are looking for and what candidates are communicating that they can offer. Regardless of the position or industry, individuals seeking new work opportunities must tailor their résumés to match the needs of the companies they are applying to.

Here are the most important things for job seekers to know as they apply for work in 2022:

1. Reliability is Key

While it used to be that applicants needed to have a certain number of years of experience or a certain technical skill to be considered qualified; current employers are willing to train people who demonstrate a strong work ethic. Due to the lack of workers, employees can’t risk people not showing up or showing up late on a regular basis. This is the most valued quality an employee can have these days. If you can truly say that you’re dependable, be sure to list that as a skill on your résumé.

2. You Can Ask For More

It used to be that people felt like they were never offered the compensation that they were worth or that they had to choose a job based on which one could offer the best benefit package. With the shortage, organizations are finally seeing the essentialism of giving people competitive wages and benefits. If you get an offer from a company you deem a good fit, don’t be afraid to negotiate pay and workplace perks. There is a good chance they will make you a better offer than they initially had.

3. Problem Solving

In any job that you take, there are going to be issues that arise. The ability to take initiative in handling them is something that employers want to see in the people they hire. Prior to showing up for an interview, be sure to think of a past situation when you needed to think on your feet. Those who have the ability to do this are the ones who will be offered promotions when a higher-paying position becomes available. Showing that you can problem solve also demonstrates that you value your position and are not just there to punch in and out.

4. Consider Company Culture and Environment

Right now, employees are putting more emphasis than ever on the importance of a positive company culture and work environment. Truthfully, the only way for a job to be a good fit over the long term is to enjoy your surroundings and feel comfortable in the space you spend your working hours. Be sure to ask what the company culture is like and if you can, get a tour of the area you will be working before accepting an offer. Don’t feel like you have to settle for the first opportunity that comes your way, there is plenty of opportunity in the 2022 job market.

If you or someone you know is looking for work, we at Award are here to help. Check out our latest opportunities here.