How do you compete in a tight labor market? Ask HR
Johnny C. Taylor Jr. tackles your human resources questions as part of a series for Paste BN. Taylor is president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, the world's largest HR professional society and author of "Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.”
The questions are submitted by readers, and Taylor's answers below have been edited for length and clarity.
Have a question? Submit it here.
Question: I am graduating in Spring 2024 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. There seem to be a lot of layoffs in many fields, including engineering. How can I best prepare for a shrinking job market? – Sunil
Answer: Even in a shrinking job market, you can take steps to ensure your success in the short and long term. Honing your skills is just as important as cultivating your career.
Building your professional network is essential for landing a job in any industry. Conversations with others give you insight into where the industry is and where it's going. Creating opportunities to have those conversations requires reaching out. Attending conferences, signing up for professional associations, and checking in with university alums in your field can all help you develop important contacts. It is more than just engaging with groups. One-on-one relationships can also have a powerful impact on your career. Effective networking leads to employment prospects.
Gathering relevant experience while in school can help you establish your career footing. Look for an internship or campus research opportunities. Think about taking up some volunteer work or tasks to apply your skills.
Stay current with recent developments in your industry. Read industry journals, attend workshops and conferences, participate in webinars and online forums or get further training or certification. Consider different industries and roles utilizing mechanical engineering skills. Examine growth sectors like aerospace, health care, or renewable energy.
Remember, getting an early start on your job search is vital. Give yourself at least six months before graduation to start looking. Stay positive and proactive. Motivated and skilled applicants can still succeed even in a shrinking job market.
I wish you all the best in your search and your career.
Staying on top How do I remain competitive with younger, tech-savvy co-workers? Ask HR
Staying put Is it OK to rescind a resignation letter? Your employer may not keep you. Ask HR
My team is moving to full-time remote work next month. I am worried about losing out on my professional connections and jeopardizing my career advancement. How can I get the best out of my remote work experience? – Oscar
Many people struggle with this similar question in today's world of varied work arrangements, so thank you for posing it. The truth is, working remotely definitely reduces worker visibility. As the adage goes, out of sight, out of mind." Despite this, you can still advance your career while working remotely. However, it will require some creativity and a proactive approach.
Begin with volunteering for major projects or cross-functional teams within your company. This will help you stay connected and develop your skills and experience while working remotely.
Be camera ready. Right or wrong, managers often equate low visibility with low productivity in the physical workplace. So, turn on your camera when participating in virtual meetings. Facetime, virtual or in-person, makes a difference.
Demonstrate commitment to your own professional development by seeking opportunities to attend training, conferences, and webinars to learn or refine a skill. Compile the list of skill development activities and get your manager's feedback on which ones would benefit you the most.
Some employers require remote workers to come into the workplace occasionally. If that is a requirement or option, leverage the opportunity to be seen and connect with those you may not see regularly.
Be more intentional about cultivating work relationships while working from home. While it may take more effort than being in the office, it isn't impossible! Make frequent use of digital communication channels like email, text, and chat applications available to you. Don't forget about the telephone. Reaching out to key people occasionally to say thank you or give a heads-up about a relevant issue makes a lasting impression. Participate in after-work social functions and ask your manager about team-building opportunities. Whether working onsite or remotely, being connected with your co-workers is invaluable.
I hope your remote work experience is a positive one.