According to the latest available public survey data (2019), the average person changes jobs 12 times in their lifetime. Employees don’t expect their jobs to last longer, and today’s employers often didn’t see their employees as lifelong commitments even before the pandemic hit.

COVID-19, a formidable challenge that officially arrived in the United States in February 2020, sparked a significant shift in the expected direction of the economy. Despite the unprecedented highs and lows of unemployment during the Pandemic months of 2020 and 2021, the workforce has shown remarkable resilience. We have witnessed unexpected change happen at an unprecedented pace, a testament to our collective strength and adaptability.

If you have survived so far and are employed, should you still should start looking for what your next job may need to be now? Even if your skills are a good fit for the current position and your employer and supervisor both see you as an excellent long-term fit, it would be wise to look, especially since the effects of the pandemic are still unclear. Of course, if you are still employed and your job seems secure, it is an excellent time to put in extra hours and do more than required. Make yourself the last one they would want to lose.

Traditionally, most job seekers have been passive, a strategic approach that allows for thorough research and networking. This method provides the luxury of time to be selective, ensuring the best match for your skills and strengths, and even uncovering jobs that aren't yet listed. It's a powerful position to be in, one that empowers you to make informed decisions about your career.

Potential employers, for the same reasons as you, want to find strong candidates whose experience, strengths, and skills match up with the job description, and often, they take their time passively looking. Good companies know that suitable matches result in motivated, happy employees who help build the company, so it pays to take some time with this decision. Use the time that you're employed to look at yourself and be honest about your strengths, abilities, and what you enjoy. The dividend you will gain is better job satisfaction and a better fit in the job you find. 

According to LinkedIn, 70% of the global workforce is passive talent, with the remaining 30% actively seeking jobs. Potential employers often see the passive-skilled candidates who are employed as more vital potential employees who are still valued by their past employer, not someone who was pushed out and considered weaker. As unfair as this is, being in a position where you don’t have to make an offer is an advantage.

Employers will generally bend to reach out for someone with the best job skills, experience, and knowledge, so find the best matches and be sure your resume shows skills and strengths that match those asked for on the job listing. 

Unemployed candidates can easily seem too eager to sell their experience and skills, even in some cases when they aren't the best match. Passion and excitement displayed for the new job can be misinterpreted as just needing a career rather than a genuine belief that a real contribution can be made.

Being actively employed not only keeps you in regular contact with your network but also provides more timely and accessible information about changes in the marketplace. This sense of security and confidence can be a significant advantage in your job search, allowing you to make informed decisions and stay ahead of the curve. 

A poor hiring decision is a costly mistake for the employer and employee, so both sides will likely take some time to research.