The Great Resignation is Over

The job market of 2025 has dramatically shifted. What was once referred to as "The Great Resignation" has now morphed into one of the toughest employment landscapes in recent memory. This evolution isn’t just about statistics—it's a daily reality that both job seekers and hiring managers are confronting head-on. Companies are still adjusting to these changes, and job seekers are learning new ways to stand out in an increasingly competitive environment.

As someone who has been involved in hiring and recruiting for multiple roles, the magnitude of this shift has become more apparent with each passing month. A year ago, posting a job vacancy would generate around 50 to 70 applications in just 24 hours. Today, that number has skyrocketed to over 600 applications within the same time frame, a clear indication of how saturated the market has become. Over the last twelve months, we’ve hired 20 new team members, including engineers, designers, and product managers. Interestingly, only two of these positions were filled through traditional unsolicited applications. The majority were filled through referrals, underscoring a critical shift in how roles are being filled today.

The Rise of Referral-Driven Hiring

This shift illustrates a crucial point: networking has never been more essential. Job seekers can no longer rely on submitting applications via job boards and hoping for a callback. The sheer volume of applicants per posting is so high that standing out is increasingly difficult. If I were searching for a job today, I would pivot my strategy significantly, focusing a substantial portion of my efforts on leveraging my network.

A successful job search today demands that 80% to 90% of your energy be directed toward networking—having conversations with friends, colleagues, and professional connections. Engage with them about open positions at their companies, ask for advice on navigating their specific industries, and tailor your application to reflect those insights. The remaining 10% of your time can be spent applying through conventional channels. This network-based approach significantly enhances your chances of getting noticed in a job market that is oversaturated with candidates.

Why Networking Matters More Than Ever

In today's job market, personal connections are becoming the primary route to securing interviews and offers. Many companies, like ours, are increasingly relying on referrals from trusted employees rather than wading through hundreds of applications. This strategy allows businesses to fill roles with pre-vetted candidates, reducing the time and effort required for the hiring process.

But it’s not just about who you know; it’s about how well you leverage those relationships. Effective networking isn’t just asking for help—it’s providing value, staying informed about market trends, and making yourself a visible and credible part of your industry’s community. Building these relationships takes time, but the rewards far outweigh the traditional "submit and wait" approach that many job seekers rely on.

Adapting to a New Job Market Reality

This hyper-competitive job market may feel overwhelming, but it also presents an opportunity for those willing to adapt. For instance, crafting a targeted resume based on insider advice from your network can make all the difference. This tailored approach shows that you are not just interested in any job, but in that job, at that company.

Moreover, using your network for informational interviews can give you insights that no job posting will ever provide. This behind-the-scenes knowledge can be the difference between being another faceless resume in a pile and becoming a top contender for the role.

Final Thoughts: Make Networking Your Main Job Search Strategy

In conclusion, the transition from "The Great Resignation" to today's ultra-competitive job market highlights the increasing importance of networking. For job seekers, it’s time to shift your strategy—focus on building relationships, asking for referrals, and providing value to your network. Traditional applications can still play a role, but they should no longer be the core of your job search strategy. A well-thought-out plan that leverages your personal and professional connections will increase your chances of standing out in the crowd, leading to the job you desire.

If you’re navigating the job market today, it’s clear that who you know is just as important—if not more so—than what you know.