Despite a low unemployment rate of 3.5% in Australia, many industries (but especially Tech businesses) have gone through periods of laying off thousands of employees recently.  Businesses such as Meta, Google, Amazon, Lyft and many others have cited the macro environment as the reason for considerable job losses both in 2022 and 2023. Businesses are bracing for tougher conditions and focus on the path to profitability by reducing their overheads, resulting in once-safe jobs in Tech businesses, bearing much of the brunt.

While many blogs have written about job hunting strategies, we wanted to focus on more ‘out-of-the-box’ thinking.  Job hunting can be a stressful process, and many job seekers find themselves frustrated by the traditional application and interview process. However, there are many unconventional ways to land a job, and some of these methods may surprise you. 

Tip 1: Use social media to your advantage

Social media can be an excellent tool for job seekers if used correctly.’ – Matt Barrie, CEO of Freelancer.com

Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter can be a great way to connect with potential employers and showcase your skills and experience. According to Barrie, it’s recommended t ‘engage with people in your industry and share your thoughts and ideas. You never know who may be looking for someone with your skills.’

Tip 2: Take on Freelance work

‘Freelancing provides opportunities to build skills, experience and reputation’ – Karen Lawson, CEO of Slingshot Accelerator.  As well as a great fractional opportunity to increase your income, Freelancing enables you to work on different projects and develop new skills, making you more marketable to potential employers.

Tip 3: Cold-email potential employers

“Sometimes, you have to be bold and take a risk to land the job you want.” – Emily Rich, Managing Director of Microsoft for Startups Australia

Sending cold emails to potential employers may seem daunting, but it can be an effective way to get noticed. According to Rich, ‘”Craft a compelling email that showcases your skills and experience, and explains why you are interested in working for the company. You never know where it may lead.’

Tip 4: Use a creative job application

“Creativity can help you stand out from the crowd.” – Craig MacDonald, CEO of Macquarie Telecom Group

Using a creative job application can help you stand out from other candidates. According to MacDonald, ‘Think outside the box and create a unique application that showcases your skills and experience in a memorable way.’

Tip 5: Volunteer your time

‘Volunteering can help you gain experience and build connections in your industry.’ – Justine Teggelove, CEO of Social Traders

Volunteering can be an excellent way to gain experience and build connections in your industry. Says Teggelove, ‘Volunteering can also help you develop new skills and demonstrate your commitment to your industry.’

Landing a job in any market can be challenging, but there are many unconventional ways to make it happen. Whether you’re using social media to your advantage, sending cold emails, using a creative job application, or volunteering your time, taking a different approach can help you stand out from the crowd. As Matt Barrie reminds job seekers, ‘Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and take a risk. You never know where it may lead.’