Are you feeling the tension in today’s job market?

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve sensed the shift. Roles are disappearing. Competition is fierce. And it’s not just about finding work anymore; it’s about staying relevant, resilient, and ready. As someone who’s navigated these waters both in the public sector, I can tell you: that not everyone is going to make it. But you? You absolutely can.

In this article, I’ll walk you through what’s really happening in the UK job market, how I’ve personally adapted, and what steps you need to take if you want to stay ahead in 2025 and beyond.

Let’s get into it.

1. The Harsh Truth: The Market Is Saturated and Shrinking

It’s no secret. We’re in a candidate-heavy market.

That means job listings are sparse while applicants are overflowing. The job market has become brutally competitive. Recruiters and hiring managers are overwhelmed, often bypassing even the most qualified applicants simply because they don’t have time to filter properly.

But here’s the kicker: it’s not just about applying anymore. It’s about understanding why you’re not getting traction; and doing something different.

My experience:

In 2024, I realised that if I wanted to secure top-tier consulting contracts, I couldn’t rely on job boards alone. So I leaned into relationships, created a solid CV, built my visibility, and refined my positioning. That made all the difference.

2. Recruiters Are Ghosting: Here’s Why (and What to Do)

Ever felt like you’re sending applications into a black hole?

You’re not alone. Recruiters are under immense pressure. Many are facing redundancies themselves. The few who remain are swamped, and as a result, they’re not engaging the way they used to. It’s not personal; it’s structural.

I’ve seen this firsthand. Some recruiters I used to work closely with have gone quiet; not because they’ve changed, but because the system has.

What you can do:

• Stop relying solely on recruiters. Build direct relationships with hiring managers and decision-makers.
• Use LinkedIn strategically. Position yourself as a thought leader in your space. Don’t just lurk; comment, create, connect.
• Reassess your CV and online presence. Are you showcasing transformation and results, or just responsibilities? 

3. Stand Out by Articulating Real Value (Use the PAR Model)

Let’s talk about value.

The truth is, many professionals can’t clearly articulate the real difference they’ve made in their roles. And in a market this tight, being vague just won’t cut it.

Here’s where my PAR model comes in:

This model changed how I present myself, on paper and in conversation. Rather than saying “I led a team to deliver projects,” I’d frame it as:

“The department was failing to deliver strategic programmes on time. I created a delivery framework, trained the team on MSP and Agile principles, and improved project velocity by 60% within four months.”

That’s not fluff. That’s impact. Problem. Action. Result.

Action step:

Go through your CV and LinkedIn profile and reframe each bullet using the PAR model. Focus on outcomes. Employers want people who solve problems and drive change.

4. Use AI and Tools to Your Advantage, But Stay Human

I won’t lie, I’ve embraced ChatGPT, Google Docs, and Toggl like old friends.

These tools have helped me:

• Structure project case studies.
• Prepare for interviews with realistic Q&A simulations.
• Track time and measure productivity during consulting engagements.

But let me be clear: tools are only as effective as the person using them. Don’t get caught up in AI and automation without authenticity.

My tip:

If you’re using ChatGPT to prep for interviews or refine messaging, layer it with your personal story. That’s the magic. The tech provides the frame, but you are the substance.

5. Shift Your Identity From “Jobseeker” to “Independent Consultant”

Here’s a mindset shift that changed the game for me.

When you see yourself as a job seeker, you wait for opportunities. You react.
But when you position yourself as a consultant, even if you’re in between roles; you lead with solutions. You initiate conversations. You start thinking like a business, not just a professional.

I branded myself as an independent programme management consultant, and that subtle change opened doors I never expected. People started asking how I could help, not just if I was available.

Ask yourself:

Are you positioning yourself as someone looking for a job; or someone who can solve real business problems?

Bonus: The 3-Point Framework for Career Readiness

If I had to break down career sustainability into three key actions, it would be this:

1. Audit Your Assets – Skills, experience, network. Where are the gaps?
2. Adapt to Change – New tech? Learn it. Market shift? Adjust fast.
3. Articulate Value – Always communicate transformation, not just tasks.

Repeat this cycle every quarter. The market will respect your readiness.

Conclusion: Only the Strategic Will Survive

Look; I know this isn’t the most uplifting message at first glance. The market is shrinking. The rules have changed.

But that doesn’t mean you’re powerless.

If anything, now is the time to sharpen your edge… To lead with value… To position yourself with purpose.

You don’t have to be the loudest or most experienced, just the clearest and most consistent.

So, ask yourself:

Are you waiting for someone to choose you… or are you choosing to show up as the solution?

Let’s not just survive 2025; let’s thrive in it – even if Donald Trump is crashing the market!

Understand, reach, and expand. Peace.