Staying Focused on Your Career During Down Times is Critical - Here's Why

Based on what you’re reading and hearing, it may seem like the outlook for hiring right now is bleak.

If you're currently job searching, this might be creating anxiety and making you wonder how long it may take to land something new, or how much you'll need to compromise.

And if you're unhappy in your current role, you might be thinking it makes sense to stay put until the economy improves, instead of looking for something new.

These are valid concerns during challenging job markets. And the reality is that despite all the predictions out there, no one knows for sure what’s ahead.

And for those of us in the social impact sector, this uncertainty feels especially stark as so many organizations are navigating funding shifts, increased community needs, and tighter resources.

When times are tough, it can seem logical to put off thinking about your career and just focus on getting through.

But downturns are actually the most important times to be thinking strategically about your career.

In this post I'll share more about why that is, and some ways to take action as we continue to navigate a challenging and rapidly changing hiring landscape.

First, a few reminders to ground us: 

• Acknowledge that this is a tough moment. Whether you've been directly impacted by layoffs or not, economic downturns are anxiety-provoking for many reasons. Take a breath, remember that macro factors are not something you can directly control, and re-focus on the things that are within your control, like your mindset, how you spend your time and energy, and how you plan for the future.

• Consider the opportunities. As hard as it may be, all change brings opportunity. What opportunities could this time create for you? For example: if you’re job searching now, how can you use some of the extra time you have to build new skills, take on side projects, or explore starting your own business? If moving to a new organization right now isn't in the cards, how might you shift your current role to align more with what you want? If you're concerned about potential cuts at your organization, how can you proactively warm up your network and start surfacing new opportunities, so you feel more prepared to make a move?

Next, some context on why now is an important time to focus on your career strategy: 

• Hiring is cyclical, and things will get better. That doesn't mean this period won't continue to be tough, for many reasons. But the economy and hiring will rebound eventually. This is the time to be thinking strategically about what you want and how to get there, so you'll be prepared for that upswing when it does eventually come. The challenges we’re navigating now will create new opportunities: new programs, partnerships, and roles will emerge as organizations adapt and respond.

• Hiring never stops. Hiring didn't stop during the economic downturns of 2000 and 2008, or during the height of Covid. This is not to minimize the very real hardship for people who lost their jobs then and now, but to remind us that even during the tough times, people are still getting hired. While it’s definitely a more competitive market right now, we're still seeing great opportunities being shared across philanthropy, larger nonprofits, state and local government, and impact-focused businesses.

Finally, here are some ways to take more ownership of your career right now: 

• Build your skills as a consultant. While organizations may be more hesitant to commit to hiring full-time employees during tough economic times, they often lean into the flexibility of hiring consultants or freelance workers. Even if it isn't something you want to do long-term, learning how to put out your shingle for consulting opportunities is a valuable skillset that will help you build a resilient career that can withstand future economic downturns.

• Get creative and map out interim steps. If you are currently looking for a new job, you may need to adjust your strategy, timeline, and expectations around what kinds of roles to target and how long your search may take. Maybe now is not the time to make a huge leap, but what's the in-between step that could help you get to where you eventually want to go? And if you have to take a role that's not ideal in the short-term, what can you learn or gain from that experience to set you up for what's next?

• Use this time to "recession-proof" your career. What would you do if your job disappeared tomorrow? How clear are you on your bigger picture career strategy and direction? How strong is your network? How up to date are your resume and LinkedIn profile? Do a quick self-assessment and pick one of these areas to focus on. Even if your current role feels safe, no job is ever guaranteed and you should always be prepared to pursue a new one, whether that's because a great opportunity pops up or something unexpected happens to your current job or organization.

• Stay tuned in to tech and sector trends. One of the best ways to future-proof your career is to embrace ongoing learning. Technology, especially AI, is rapidly changing how we work and the kinds of jobs we’ll be doing in the near future. Experimenting with new tools will keep your skills fresh and ensure you’re prepared for the opportunities these shifts will create. And staying attuned to bigger sector trends, including where funding is flowing and growth is happening, will help you be strategic about future career moves.

• Last but not least: get and give support. One of the greatest assets of working in social impact is the strength of our communities. This is a time to lean into those networks and connect with peers who can help you process uncertainty and mentors who can champion you. Remember that you can help others too; it’s one of the best ways to shift your mindset and it will make you feel great too.

Finally, remember that this time is temporary, you are resilient, and you've navigated tough times before. There are amazing professional opportunities in your future, and by continuing to prioritize your career goals now, you'll be ready to pursue them.

And most importantly, remember that the work you do matters. Even when resources are constrained or the headlines feel discouraging, the social impact sector needs committed, thoughtful leaders like you.

By investing in your own clarity and growth, you’re not only building a stronger career for yourself — you’re also positioning yourself to create the kind of change our communities and world need.

If you'd like coaching and support as you navigate your career strategy, we’re here to partner with you through our events, group coaching programs, or individual coaching.