Thinking about a job change in 2026?

The job market is more competitive than it was a few years ago. Hiring teams move fast for candidates who show preparation and interest while those who don’t, wonder why their search drags on for months.

A few tips to make you feel seen:

Referrals, Connections, and Coffee Chats are back

Connect with recruiters, TA, or hiring managers before or when applying, your resume will get more attention especially if you're not the right fit for this exact role but potentially for something coming up in the future.

Preparation is the key to success

Basic questions like “How long have you been with X?” signal little to no prep. The details affect interviewers decisions more than you might believe when comparing other candidates with similar experience.

“Quiet Hiring” is in and “Quiet Quitting” is out!

Organizations are more likely to hire the “right” candidate for roles that aren’t posted or officially open than hire the “wrong” candidate for something that’s been a struggle to fill.

Big Tech layoffs aren’t slowing

Find something to sink your teeth into, go for the job you want not the job you think other people want you to hold. In a world where you need to be strategic, don’t waste time on jobs you don’t want.

Specialists are winning

Consulting and contract work continue to grow, especially for people who are exceptional at one thing vs. “jack of all trades.”

Longevity matters again

Employers want to see growth, impact, and staying power — not a résumé of short stints.

I’ve seen 1,000+ applications for a job posted less than 3 days so being number 1,001 won’t increase your chance of getting hired. More roles are coming in the new year, but the COVID hiring boom is over. The “throw spaghetti at the wall” approach shouldn’t be your job search strategy for 2026.