Job Searching in 2025

Hunting for a job has always been a daunting process, but in the year 2025, it is even more so. Today, the workforce places greater and greater demands on potential employees. Standards are high, and the competition can feel overwhelming. So how can you, the job-seeker, help strengthen your chances in today’s market? By being educated. Know what resources are available to you, and take full advantage of them. The Mercer County Library System is an excellent resource to have at your disposal. We are happy to help!

One of the areas that people often struggle with when job searching is their résumé. To make yourself more desirable to the employer, your résumé should be tailored to the individual position for which you are applying. This can help you stand out in the crowd. How can you connect your résumé to the job posting? Look for keywords that stand out and phrases that are repeated. These are what the employer is stressing as desirable qualifications. If you have them, make them known. Reflect those keywords in your résumé, and use those phrases when describing your skills and abilities. If you’re struggling or are not sure you’re on the right path, take advantage of the Library’s résumé review service. You can submit your résumé and cover letter to us, as well as a description of the job you are targeting, and one of our librarians will review, proofread, and offer feedback. Need a few more pointers? Check out the Library’s great Career Prep and Job Seeking resource page for information you will need for a stand-out résumé. You’ll also find skill-building resources there, like LinkedIn Learning and LearningExpress Library Complete. In addition, MCLS offers technology instruction for both beginners and intermediate learner, English as a second language classes and citizenship exam practice.

Another area people can struggle with is the actual interview. Interviews can be scary and anxiety inducing. Our librarians are here to help with our interview practice service. We’ll schedule a real-life mock interview with you via GoToMeeting, the Library’s video conferencing platform, to help you brush up on the skills you’re going to need when you land that real-world interview.

Are you just not sure what jobs are in demand? Go to New Jersey’s Labor and Workforce Development website. They have great resources. This Labor Demand Occupations list highlights the jobs that are expected to have the most openings in the near future. Need help navigating the site? Stop in to your local MCLS branch and chat with one of our excellent reference librarians for help.

Job searching can be scary. But the staff at your local branch are at your disposal to help alleviate those fears. We’re here when you need us, and happy to be of service.

Don’t forget to check out these great print resources at Mercer County Library System:

The Job Seeker's Script: Tell Your Story and Land Your Dream Position
by Judith Humphrey

Get Hired Now! How to Accelerate Your Job Search, Stand Out, and Land Your Next Great Opportunity
by Ian Siegel

Next Job, Best Job: A Headhunter's 11 Strategies to Get Hired Now
by Rob Barnett

Where's Your Buffalo? A Recruiter's Guide to Getting the Career You Want, Earning What You're Worth, and Doing What You Love
by Tom Johnston

Start Now: Because That Meaningful Job Is Out There, Just Waiting for You
by Reynold Levy

 

 

 

• Megan, Twin Rivers Branch