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September 2024

  /  2024

Most Kiwi job seekers are poorly prepared to navigate the New Zealand job market because they aren't aware that the local employment landscape has changed, meaning that we must take a different approach to job search.   Here at Move to More (M2M) (where we are a recruitment company and coach people in their careers and job hunting) we see many candidates who seem to think that we are in a 'candidates’ market' and that jobs are easy. As a result, candidates use the same CV and the same cover letter to apply for multiple jobs. However, the cover letter should be specific to each role to stand out. Use the cover letter to position yourself better because the cover letter is the first thing a recruiter reads. Employers are looking for specific attributes in candidates that can be difficult for a candidate to fulfil without preparation.   The skills market goes in cycles. With trends like the tech industry downsizing overseas, we see more caution locally—particularly considering recession warnings—so there will be heaps of people out looking for jobs. I think the local job market is going to be tougher. Job seekers will be challenged moving forward, particularly experienced people, because they may take for granted that they

Lately, I've noticed a concerning trend with New Zealand's employers. Job interviews, once a platform for connection and mutual evaluation, have morphed into a mere checklist exercise. And it's not just me observing this; countless candidates echo the sentiment.   Here's my take: while checklists cover essential points—like flexibility, no bullying policies, diversity and inclusion, and certification—much of this is becoming lip service. Don't get me wrong, these are all critical things. But selecting the right person for a role should go beyond mere compliance.   With our ever-growing culture of 'busyness', many organisations need to take the time to reflect and truly understand what they need from a candidate. It's like everyone's on this relentless time dollar clock. And I get it. In many ways, relying on a checklist is