Navigating the “Big Freeze” Job Market: How to Keep Your Competitive Edge

Today
Grace Adams

In his February 26, 2025, article "The Job Market Is Frozen," Rogé Karma examines the current paradox in the U.S. labor market: despite historically low unemployment rates, hiring has decelerated, and voluntary job quits have significantly declined. This phenomenon, termed the "Big Freeze," presents unique challenges for job seekers, particularly recent graduates entering the workforce.

As graduation approaches, many students are preparing to transition into their careers. The "Big Freeze" implies that traditional indicators of a healthy job market may no longer guarantee ample opportunities. Consequently, graduates must adopt proactive strategies to distinguish themselves in this competitive environment.

A group of individuals in business professional clothing sit with resumes in hand.

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Implications for Graduate Students 

The cooling job market affects both master’s and doctoral degree holders, with the most significant impacts seen in academia. Tenure-track and non-tenure faculty positions, postdoctoral roles, and grant-funded research positions are facing hiring slowdowns due to a combination of economic and institutional factors.

At the same time, career transitions are reshaping competition in certain fields. Professionals shifting industries are increasingly targeting roles in communications, media, and technology — sectors that already have limited openings, further intensifying the job search. Additionally, there is a growing shift towards skills-based hiring where employers prioritize demonstrated expertise, opening positions up to applicants without degrees. This trend underscores the importance of showcasing practical skills in applications and interviews.

Despite the overall slowdown, opportunities are expanding in specific fields such as healthcare-related industries and project management. While recent reports indicate that young college graduates now face a higher unemployment rate than the overall workforce for the first time since 1990, advanced degree holders still maintain stronger long-term job prospects and earning potential.

In such a shifting landscape, adaptability is key. Graduate students who take a proactive approach will be better positioned to navigate these challenges and find meaningful opportunities.

What Should You Do? 

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Adobe Stock.

While the current climate of the job market may be daunting, there are a few key things you can do to help your chances of securing a position. 

  • Focus on Networking: Building both an internal and external network is important in times like these. Many employers are looking to fill positions internally before posting them to the public. Build relationships with different departments at your current company and get your name out there. Additionally, reach out to individuals at potential employers and get to know what they do and who they are. 
  • Develop In-Demand Skills: Keep an eye out for skills in job descriptions that you haven’t seen before—the skills employers are looking for in candidates are changing. For example, as AI becomes more prevalent in all industries, employers are looking to hire individuals who know how to apply it in their field. Develop general knowledge about AI including terminology and key concepts. Then learn how to apply AI technologies to challenges in your industry.  
  • Have an Open Mind: It takes time to find your dream job. Don’t be afraid to have an open mind and explore positions and opportunities outside of your current industry—a winding career path is more common than a straight one!
  • Spend Your Time on High-Quality Applications: While it may seem intuitive to cast a wide net and submit many applications without editing each one to the job description, oftentimes submitting fewer high-quality applications tailored to the job description yields better results. 
  • Book an Appointment with Graduate Career Services: The Graduate Center’s Graduate Career Services (GCS) team offers one-on-one appointments to help you gain a competitive edge in the market by highlighting your unique skills and experiences. These appointments provide tailored guidance to enhance your job search and application process.

Conclusion

Job seeking in the “Big Freeze” requires adaptability and proactive engagement. While the current job market may feel uncertain, it also presents an opportunity to refine your approach, expand your skill set, and build meaningful professional connections. The most successful job seekers are those who take initiative—leveraging networking opportunities, tailoring their applications, and embracing flexibility in their career paths.

Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. The Graduate Career Services team is here to support you with personalized guidance, strategic job search techniques, and expert insights to help you stand out. Whether you're exploring career options, refining your resume, or preparing for interviews, GCS can equip you with the tools to thrive in today’s evolving job market.

Book an appointment today by visiting the Graduate Career Services webpage.