The Hunger Games of Job Hunting

Finding a job right now is unusually difficult. Tech layoffs have been happening in waves for the last year. Competition is fierce. It was only a few years ago when we were in “The Great Resignation.” Oh, how the turn tables.

It’s alarming every time I see an entry-level Product Designer role on LinkedIn with over 1,000 applicants. How would anyone have a shot at getting an interview for that role? You’d have better luck playing the lottery.

There must be a better way? Yes. Yes there is.

Remember the movie, The Hunger Games? There’s that scene when the games are about to begin and the count down from 10 is blared over the intercom. All the players are standing on little platforms in a circle. And of course, there’s a giant pile of resources in the middle to help them survive — weapons, food, and tools.

Then, when the count down reaches 0, many players rush towards the middle to grab what they can. A literal representation of survival of the fittest. Not everyone survived that initial sprint.

If you’re active on the job hunt today, I hate to say it, but you’re one of the players. And all that good stuff in the middle? Those are the open jobs everyone wants.

Now, which player should you be?

The one who runs into the fire and fight for the most desired and visible roles?

Or the one who decides to take their chances where no one else is looking?

It depends.

Finding a job these days? It’s like navigating a maze in the dark. Tech layoffs have been hitting hard, and the competition? It's like trying to stand out in a crowded concert. We were just catching our breath from "The Great Resignation," and now, it’s like the tables did a full 180.

Scanning LinkedIn for an entry-level Product Designer role feels like checking the odds at a casino. Over 1,000 applicants? Might as well try your luck at the lottery, right?

But here’s the thing: there’s a better way. Trust me, there is.

Remember "The Hunger Games"? Picture that scene where the clock ticks down, tension thick in the air, and all those players standing on their platforms. In the center, a jackpot of resources - weapons, food, tools - everything to up your survival game.

As the countdown hits zero, the frenzy begins. Players dart towards the center, grabbing whatever they can. Survival of the fittest, right? But not everyone makes it through that initial scramble.

Sound familiar? If you're job hunting today, sorry to say it, but you're in the game. And those coveted roles? They’re the treasures in the middle everyone’s vying for.

So, which player are you going to be?

Do you charge headfirst into the fire, gunning for the most popular roles, battling the crowd for visibility?

Or do you take a gamble, exploring the uncharted territories where everyone else isn’t looking?

It’s a tough call, and it depends on your strategy.

The rush towards the flashy roles might seem tempting, but sometimes, the overlooked paths hold hidden gems. What about playing to your unique strengths, scouting for opportunities that align with your niche skills or passions?

Networking's also a game-changer. Just like alliances in "The Hunger Games," connections can tip the scales. Engaging with smaller companies, tapping into your professional network, or even considering freelance gigs might open doors less crowded with applicants.

And remember, it’s not always about quantity. Tailoring your applications, showcasing genuine interest, and understanding a company's culture can make you shine amidst the crowd.

In this job hunt Hunger Games, your strategy is your best weapon. Sometimes, it’s about diving into the chaos, but other times, the road less traveled might lead to your victory.

Stay resilient, stay focused, and remember, sometimes the biggest wins come from the paths least taken.