Job Search & Applications: Cover Letters, CVs, LinkedIn & Networking

We all know it is tough out there right now. The job market is tight, competition is fierce, and opportunities might seem few and far between. While we can trust that things will improve (because economic cycles always turn), we also must be pragmatic. That means dealing with what is, not what was, and staying hopeful that the maybe ahead is better than right now.

A Lesson That is Stuck with Me

When I started out in HR management consulting, working alongside some of the biggest employer brands in Aotearoa and supporting people through career transitions, the very first thing my new boss handed me was a book.

It was the go-to guide for job seekers and career changers back then, and in many ways, it still is today:

What Colour Is Your Parachute?

One insight from that book has stuck with me for over two decades….

The Power of Networking

Even then, we knew that 75–80% of job opportunities sit in the “hidden job market.” That means they are not advertised, not posted online, and not part of your typical job-hunting routine. So how do you tap into those opportunities?

You guessed it: Networking.

Why Networking Still Matters (and Always Will)

Whether you are new to the workforce, facing redundancy, or looking to pivot yourself into something new, your network is one of your most valuable assets. This is not about who you know, it is about who knows you, what you are known for, and how you stay connected.

An effective networking strategy is not about asking people for jobs, it is about building relationships, sharing your story, and staying visible. Many of the best opportunities come through conversations, not job boards.

LinkedIn: Your Online CV (and Much More)

In today’s market, your LinkedIn profile is more than a digital CV. It is your personal brand, your online shopfront, and a real-time networking tool. Employers and recruiters use it to:

• Verify your experience.

• See what others say about you.

• Understand your values, interests, and career trajectory.

A strong, well-optimised LinkedIn profile helps ensure that you are findable, relatable, and credible—even before you have submitted a job application.

Final Thought

An effective job search is more than just sending out CVs and writing cover letters. Yes, those things matter—but do not overlook the power of people.

Talk to others. Be visible. Stay curious. Build your Network.

The job market may be tough right now, but with the right strategy, especially around networking and LinkedIn, you are already ahead of the curve.