New Focus New Zealand director and senior career practitioner Muriel Willem was not surprised by the statistics.

“There have been many redundancies, especially in the health sector, but also in the primary sector and manufacturing industries, due to the increase in electricity costs.

We have seen factories significantly reduce operations or temporarily stop production both locally and in other regions, and unfortunately a few have closed for good. As a result, we have seen job seekers move to the Northland in search of more affordable housing and a lower cost of living.”

She described a “significant decrease” in the number of advertised vacancies, despite an increase in the number of people looking for work.

“While casual and part-time opportunities are increasing, the number of permanent positions is decreasing, creating challenges for jobseekers facing rising living costs and higher loan repayments mortgage.”

She said New Focus clients often struggle to find long-term employment since the disruption caused by Covid-19 and many businesses have not fully recovered.

The longer people stayed out of work, confidence fell and created a “challenging cycle” where job seekers felt anxious about applying for jobs, doubted their skills and feared disappointment, a she said.

People potential chief executive Bronwyn Ronayne said that in times of economic trouble, employers are less likely to take a risk on someone or hesitate to hire at all.

“I think the Northland is the most beautiful place in the world to live, but I think the downside is that when the economy is said to be in trouble, we’re the first to feel the effects and the last to get out of it. “

Companies being cautious about spending equated to more cautious hiring, she said.

The region has been home to many small and medium-sized businesses and when times are tough financially, it can be a “fine line” between keeping the doors open.

Ronayne said People Potential had seen an increase in young people wanting to develop, but it was a common misconception that the agency was only there for young people.

“If you’re actually out there applying for jobs and getting rejected, it can be really discouraging, but if you’re doing something in the community (like) doing a program with us, it’s still going forward.”

At a time when layoffs are common and companies are tightening their pockets, people in the region are finding themselves out of work. So how do you get out of a slump?

Muriel Willem from New Focus shares some tips.

Seek career support

Being between jobs offers a unique opportunity to engage with a careers practitioner who can assess jobseekers and review their transferable skills.

Reflecting on work values ​​can also help identify what matters most in a workplace, whether it’s opportunities for growth, company culture, or work-life balance.

“These invaluable services are offered free of charge through Direct Career Services, making them accessible to everyone in the community and across the island. No one should go through this challenging time alone,” says Willem.

Add to your skills

Adaptability is crucial in a challenging job market.

“Many clients take advantage of this time to improve their skills by pursuing micro-credentials in areas of interest.

“These short courses can significantly improve your employability and make you a more attractive candidate in today’s competitive job market.”

Investing in professional development can also boost your confidence and equip you with the latest knowledge and skills.

“Practice and training are essential to standing out in a competitive job market. Job seekers should seek support in creating a professional CV and cover letter,” says Willem.

Volunteering is a good way to not only gain new skills, but to pad your resume with meaningful community involvement instead of leaving an unexplained void.

Prepare, prepare, prepare

LinkedIn can be a valuable tool to connect with others in your field and showcase your skills.

If you’re using Facebook for applications, make sure your profile is professional – review your photos, as employers can use your page to gauge your character and fit for the company.

Practice and preparation are also key to standing out—and that includes crafting a professional resume and cover letter.

“Creating a resume is an art; each should be tailored to the specific role you’re applying for – generic versions won’t do. If you’re not sure, get professional help.”

Practice self-care

“Being a job seeker can be extremely stressful and sometimes demoralizing, so prioritizing self-care is crucial. It’s important to take care of your mental and emotional well-being during this transition, as it can take days, weeks or even months to secure a job,” says Willem.

It’s a good time to reflect on any challenges you’ve faced in previous jobs so you can prepare yourself with the tools and information you need to navigate new challenges.

Use your network to let others know you are looking for a job and surround yourself with trusted people who can support you.

Taking time for self-care and personal growth can make a difference in your job search experience and overall job satisfaction, Willem said.

Brodie Stone is a education and general news reporter at Lawyer. Brodie has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into the issues that matter to those in Northland and beyond.