Job Search During Layoffs

Layoffs are continuing into 2025. Major behemoths like Starbucks, Boeing, Warner Bros and UPS have announced massive layoffs at the national level. Nationally, it’s grim—1.8 million layoffs hit in December 2024 alone – heading into 2025 (BLS, Feb 2025). Tampa Bay is feeling the heat with cuts at major local employers like Pfizer, Coca Cola, e-Telequote and Stryker among others. For CPAs and finance pros I work with here in Tampa Bay, this isn’t the end; it calls for a pivot and focus on good strategy. A smart job search goes beyond banging your head against the computer looking at job postings all day—here are just a couple ideas. 💡

Networking is your anchor. CareerBuilder’s 2025 survey says 70% of jobs never hit public boards—relationships uncover them (CareerBuilder, 2025). Popular and engaging methods include LinkedIn DMs and local meetups over submitting endless applications to the black holes of job postings. Tampa Bay’s finance & accounting circles are tight; tap them with a coffee invite, happy hour or a quick note. 🍵 🫱🏻‍🫲🏻🍻

Make interview prep your edge. With 60% of candidates bailing on clunky processes (SHRM, 2025), firms prize interview readiness. Master STAR responses—my candidates are coached to shine by linking previous quantifiable wins to potential employer needs and situations. Korn Ferry notes 67% of recruiters see AI aiding prep, but human finesse closes the deal (Korn Ferry, 2025). Practice interview prep with a mentor or a coach; it can be a game-changer. 🧮

Chasing job postings alone won’t cut it. While allocating time to evaluate online postings, that strategy alone can be a frustrating exercise. Many gripe about “ghost jobs” or postings. Alternatively, 39% of seekers find gold via company sites or direct contacts (Miami Daily Life, Dec 2024). I help job seeking candidates land faster by coaching the full playbook. In this layoff storm, strategy beats panic. Ready for your Tampa Bay move? Let’s talk. 🪙

#cpacareers #careers #jobsearch #networking #jobinterviews