STOP ASKING “IS NOW A GOOD TIME TO JOB SEARCH?”

If I had a dollar for every time someone asked me, “Shub, is it a good time to look for a job?” I would probably have a whole new income stream by now. 

Here’s the truth most people don’t want to hear: 

There is no “good” or “bad” market - only good and bad job searches.  

I have seen people land incredible roles in tough markets. And I have seen others struggle even when hiring was booming. 

The difference? It’s never the market.

It’s the mindset and method of the job seeker.

Let’s break it down:

1. Self-belief 

This is the biggest predictor of how fast you will get a job. 

If you believe you are too young, too old, too foreign, too local, or “just unlucky”… you will subconsciously act in ways that confirm that story. But if you truly believe you bring value, that any company would be lucky to have you, you will show up differently.

You will network more. You will reach out with confidence. You will prepare harder. Your beliefs shape your actions. Your actions shape your results. And your results reinforce your beliefs.

That’s the success cycle and it starts in your mind.

2. Self-Awareness

You can’t fix what you can’t see. 

Most job seekers blame the market, recruiters, or competition. But the real power lies in asking, “What could I be missing?” 

Maybe your résumé isn’t communicating your value. Maybe your interviews are too tactical and not strategic. Maybe your network isn’t wide enough. 

Humility to say, “I don’t know what I don’t know,” is the first step to getting unstuck. And no, you don’t need a coach immediately. You can start with free resources: YouTube, LinkedIn posts, and professional communities (hint: like the one I share daily insights in.)

3. Network (the right way)

Networking isn’t about asking your best friend for a referral. 

Your next opportunity is more likely to come from weak ties - former colleagues, suppliers, vendors, clients, or even people you met at a conference years ago. These are the people outside your daily circle who can open new doors. 

Start building those bridges before you need them. 

When you take care of these three — self-belief, self-awareness, and networking — the market becomes irrelevant. 

Because a well-prepared job seeker doesn’t wait for the right time. They create it.

With confidence and clarity,

Shub

Your Career Growth Partner