Why the Job Market Is Forcing a New Career Strategy
Before we start, I want to acknowledge the moment we’re in. The world feels heavy right now, and I’m not ignoring that. I’m choosing to show up intentionally to offer perspective and support as you navigate your career. Please be kind to yourself and others.
The December employment reports are in, and if 2025 taught us anything, it’s this: the job market refuses to follow a neat, predictable storyline.
Here’s what the final data of the year tells us.
What the December Employment Reports Show
The ADP Report
According to ADP, 41K new jobs were added in December, with mid-sized firms (50–249 employees) leading the way and accounting for 29K of those roles.
Sector highlights include:
Education and health services: +39K jobs
Leisure and hospitality: +24K jobs
These gains helped offset notable losses in other areas:
Professional and business services: −29K jobs
Information: −12K jobs
The BLS Report
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that nonfarm payroll employment increased by 50K jobs in December.
Breakdown by sector:
Food services: +27K jobs
Health care: +21K jobs
Retail: −25K jobs
Different reports. Different methodologies. A familiar theme by now.
Zooming Out on the Job Market
2025 was a wild year for the job market.
And to be clear, I’m not an economist. Not at all.
What I am is someone deeply immersed in the job market through my work every day. And what I can say with confidence is this: things are changing.
The job search you conducted in 2019 is not going to work today.
The job seeker market of 2022 to 2023 is firmly behind us.
So the real question becomes: what does 2026 require?
What Will Matter Most in 2026
Opportunities Will Come From Relationships
Referrals, conversations, warm introductions, and genuine connections will continue to outperform cold applications. And dare I say, if you are not in an active job search, it is even more important to build, nurture, and maintain relationships now.
The strongest opportunities are often created well before you need them.
Growth Will Set You Apart
Those who invest in learning new skills, new tools, and new ways of thinking will separate themselves in a crowded and cautious market.
Standing still is no longer neutral. Growth signals relevance, adaptability, and long-term value.
Visibility Will Be the Differentiator
If people don’t know what you do, how you think, or the value you bring, opportunities will pass you by.
Being excellent is no longer enough. You must also be visible, sharing your perspective, expertise, and impact in ways others can see and remember.
What This Means for You
If you’re heading into 2026 relying on the same career habits that have built your career so far, the same positioning, and the same level of visibility, it’s time to reassess.
This isn’t about panic.
It is about preparation.
If you want help pressure testing your approach, strengthening your strategy, or positioning yourself for the kind of opportunities you actually want, my virtual Zoom door is open.
Let’s break down your options, identify what will move the needle most, and take intentional steps forward as we head into the new year.
Book your →free strategy session← today.
