Thrive during a hiring freeze

Over the last few weeks I've had a range of conversations about surviving hiring freezes within their organisation. People are searching for answers to things such as:

Staying sane when they are savagely short staffed
Tampering frustrations when expected roles aren't being advertised
Feeling even more stuck in poorly fitting roles
Being undecided about moving on
Feeling fear they will miss out on opportunities

A hiring freeze can be a challenging time when you are looking to further your internal career, creating uncertainty and additional stress. However, it is a mistake to focus only on the negatives. It can also be an opportunity to grow professionally, strengthen relationships, and explore new possibilities. Below are some thoughts.

Staying Emotionally Strong

Maintain a Positive Mindset - Hiring freezes are out of your control so don't sweat the things you can't change. Focus on what you can control—your performance, attitude, and professional development.
Practice Self-Care - Increased workloads during a hiring freeze can lead to burnout. Prioritise mental and physical health by setting boundaries, taking breaks, and engaging in activities that help you recharge. It might be a good time to do something like my Mental Fitness training.
Don't Trash Talk - It doesn't help you, or others, survive when you get in a negative conversation loop about what is happening. It is a good time to practice your skill in shifting conversations to topics that are more constructive.

Supporting Those Around You

Foster Team Collaboration - With fewer resources, teamwork becomes essential. Offer support to colleagues overwhelmed by additional responsibilities and encourage cross-functional collaboration to share the workload effectively. Others will be watching and noting what you do.
Celebrate Small Wins - Be part of noting team achievements, no matter how small. Celebrating milestones boosts morale and strengthens camaraderie during tough times.
Be a Source of Positivity - Your attitude can influence others. By staying optimistic and solution-focused, you can help maintain a positive workplace culture.

Looking for Hidden Opportunities

Explore Internal Mobility - There will be temporary leadership roles or project opportunities that open up due to a hiring freeze. Let people know you are keen to step into these. It shows you have initiative and positions you nicely when hiring resumes.
Up-skill Strategically - Use this time to enhance your skills through online courses or certifications relevant to your role or desired career path. This not only makes you more valuable but also prepares you for future opportunities.
Network Proactively - Strengthen relationships both within and outside of your workplace. Attend industry or association events (virtual or in-person), connect with peers on LinkedIn, and engage in professional communities to uncover hidden job opportunities. (Connect with me on LinkedIn here)

Consider Outside Jobs

Expand Your Job Search - Don't be blind to other industries or companies that are stillbe recruiting. Broaden your search geographically or across sectors to find opportunities that align with your skills.
Freelance or Consult - If you're worried about job security, consider taking on freelance work or consulting projects to diversify your income streams while keeping your skills sharp. Start a side hustle.
Build Your Personal Brand - Update your LinkedIn profile, share industry insights, and demonstrate thought leadership online. A strong personal brand can attract recruiters even during a hiring freeze.

Here is a checklist of things to do today

Up-skill Yourself: Enrol in an online course or certification program that aligns with your career goals.
Strengthen Relationships: Schedule one-on-one check-ins with colleagues and set up some coffee catch ups with people in your network.
Explore Opportunities: Research freelance projects or roles in industries less affected by hiring freezes while keeping an eye on internal mobility options.

By staying proactive and resilient, you can turn a hiring freeze into an opportunity for personal growth and career advancement.

As always, wishing you a flourishing career.

Katherine

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