Why It’s So Dang Hard To Find a Job Today (And 7 Ways You Can Stand Out)

When did it become so difficult to find a job? It's hard to pinpoint, but the fact remains: it's incredibly challenging. Whether you're currently employed but want something new, or you're between jobs, the hunt is a full-time gig in itself.

Applying for roles all over the country may be easier than ever, but now you're battling algorithms and endless processes that can leave even highly qualified candidates feeling defeated. But don't despair. Once you understand these seven reasons job hunting is so hard today, you'll learn seven ways to cut through the noise, finally land that job, and lower your financial stress.

First, here are the seven reasons it's so dang hard to find a job:

When you apply online, odds are that a human will never see it. Your resume may be scanned by an applicant tracking system (ATS), which filters out applications based on keywords, formatting issues, or what AI interprets as a lack of qualifications.

This imperfect system results in numerous highly qualified applicants being overlooked in the average job posting, all because the algorithm didn't like them.

Believe it or not, many companies post positions they aren't actively trying to fill. These "ghost jobs" get posted for a number of reasons, none of which help you.

The fake postings might be used to make a company appear to be growing or to meet internal policies before promoting from within. And you'll never know why your application got no response.

Job descriptions have become a wish list of impossible demands. For entry-level roles, employers may seek candidates with five or more years of experience or want to hire for senior-level responsibilities at a junior-level salary.

This paradox leaves the majority of applicants stuck in the middle, branded as either overqualified or underqualified.

Smart Drivers, Smarter Savings.

Compare car insurance rates in Ohio

See if you qualify for a lower rate in less than 2 minutes

Currently Insured?

Yes

No

Multiple Cars?

Yes

No

Homeowner

Yes

No

Age

30-39

• 18-29
• 30-39
• 40-49
• 50-59
• 60-69
• 70-79
• 80+

Compare Quotes

By clicking the button above, I understand and agree that this site uses site visit recording technology (provided by Trusted Form, Jornaya, and Microsoft Clarity) Privacy Policy

Smart Drivers, Smarter Savings.

Great News! We’ve located some excellent quote options just for you.

Where can we send you info and recommendations?

Enter Email

Bundle Home & Auto to Save More?

Yes

No

Active Military?

No

Yes

Compare Quotes

By clicking the button above, I understand and agree that this site uses site visit recording technology (provided by Trusted Form, Jornaya, and Microsoft Clarity) Privacy Policy

You know the old saying: It's not what you know, it's who you know. It remains true, now more than ever.

Some estimates suggest up to 70% of jobs are filled through internal referrals, networking, or direct recruiting before they are ever posted publicly. If you're only applying to online job boards, you're missing out on the vast majority of opportunities.

The days of one or two interviews are long gone. The average hiring process today can involve multiple phone screens, skills tests, personality assessments, and panel interviews spread out over weeks or even months.

This exhausting marathon often ends with no feedback or a generic rejection, leaving you feeling drained and discouraged.

Even if a company has dozens of jobs posted, it can pull the plug at any time. Concerns about the economy often lead to sudden hiring freezes or slowdowns.

Worse yet, some candidates have had job offers rescinded, as the freezes impact anyone who hasn't officially started their new role yet.

Technology is evolving at a breakneck pace, and job requirements are struggling to keep up.

A job description may require expertise in software or platforms that have only existed for a year or two. That same tech can become obsolete just as quickly. The result is a constant skills gap where it feels impossible to have the exact experience needed to get hired.

Now, here are seven ways you can stand out and land the job you're looking for:

To get past the AI robots, you have to play their game. You have to tailor your resume for the ATS that will evaluate it.

First, create a resume with basic formatting so that the ATS can easily read it. Look for keywords and phrases in the job description and strategically place them in your resume. This means reworking your resume for all jobs you apply for, but it will help your application reach a human in the HR department.

Don't just list your skills and the places you have worked. Create a section on your resume that describes your professional history, including specific tasks you have performed.

Try to quantify the results of your past work. For example, you might say, "I helped grow social media engagement by 40% in six months, resulting in a 15% increase in web traffic."

The idea that you have to sell yourself to potential employers is nothing new. The best way to do that today is to develop a personal brand.

Devote a paragraph on your resume to a concise story that explains your career journey, your future goals, and what only you can bring to the workplace. Creating a strong personal brand makes you more memorable and can even help avoid the dreaded "tell me about yourself" question in job interviews.

LinkedIn remains an excellent tool for job hunting and building a career — if you have a networking strategy.

Share articles on the platform that are relevant to your career field. Leave comments on posts from hiring managers and other VIPs. It's all about getting your name out there so that you're not just another random applicant.

Although top skills change frequently, the best way to become a sought-after candidate is to have the latest ones.

Currently, that means learning generative AI tools, data analytics, or cybersecurity. Read employment-focused articles to stay on top of hiring trends to ensure you always have some experience with the latest big thing.

As you probably know, most online job postings get hundreds or thousands of applicants. Many recruiters begin reviewing applications as soon as they arrive. By applying within 24 hours after a job is posted, you position yourself at the top of the pile.

On the other hand, if you wait, there's a good chance the hiring manager will never see your resume.

Just like in the days before AI and ATS scanners, following up after applying for a job is time well spent. It keeps your name at the top of a recruiter's mind and shows your interest in the job.

However, don't overdo it. Give the recruiter or hiring manager time to respond, and frame your messages around enthusiasm instead of a demand for an update.

The job search today is undeniably tough. It's filled with technological hurdles and market uncertainties. If it wears you down, don't feel bad about it. A study by Insight Global found that 55% of unemployed adults reported feeling "completely burned out" from the job hunt.

Many job seekers share the exhaustion and exasperation you feel. However, by knowing the cause of the problems and adjusting your strategy, you can position yourself as a standout candidate and secure the role you need to build wealth.