Navigating a Slow Job Market: Strategies for Master’s Students During a Hiring Freeze
By David Shafiei, Esq. (Sc.M Biotechnology ’25)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the daunting task of applying for full-time positions? Maybe you’ve already sent out hundreds of applications with no bites. Unfortunately, the reality is that the job market is in a hiring freeze, recovering but at a frustratingly slow pace. But here’s the good news: there are ways to navigate this challenging landscape and potentially land your dream job. It may take a bit more creativity and effort, but we’re Ivy League students—navigating challenging situations is what we do best!
Cold Opens: Standing Out in a Frozen Market
One unconventional but effective way to break into an industry is by making a cold open, whether through cold emailing or messaging someone directly on LinkedIn. Instead of becoming just another number in a sea of applicants, you can connect with people already embedded in the industry. If you can make a genuine connection, you’re already a step ahead of the competition.
Cold opens work best when you’re not blatant about wanting a job. Instead, take the time to research the person’s role within the company, scour their LinkedIn profile or Brown Connects+, and find common ground. Engage meaningfully! For example, ask for mentorship or advice about their career path. Most people are happy to share their stories and offer guidance.
The key is to be personable yet professional—this isn’t a formal job application, but a networking opportunity. Let your personality shine while maintaining a respectful tone. This approach will set you apart from the crowd that relies on generic email templates. And when you cold email, aim for an actual contact within the company, preferably an alumnus or someone in a department of interest. Avoid generic company inboxes; your email might never reach anyone relevant. If you need a baseline to get you started, check out some of our networking prompts that we developed here.
Enhancing Skills: Staying Competitive During a Hiring Freeze
While waiting for the job market to thaw, consider using this time to enhance your skills. Certification programs, workshops, and even advanced degrees can give you a competitive edge. If your university courses didn’t fully prepare you for the industry, now’s the time to identify any gaps in your skill set. Look at job listings to see what technical or soft skills you might be missing and invest in learning them.
Short courses in coding, data analysis, or industry-specific tools can be quick wins. Just ensure the programs you choose are credible and well-regarded. For those considering further education, advanced degrees like an MBA, PhD, or even a professional degree (e.g., JD, MD) can set you apart from your peers.
Workshops and webinars are another great way to stay current with industry trends and build connections. They can help you tailor your resume, prepare for interviews, and expand your network—all essential tools during a hiring freeze. You can check out our Forage job simulations and/or LinkedIn Learning courses on our Master’s Career Website here.
Expanding Your Network: Leveraging Social Media and Professional Organizations
In a slow job market, networking is more important than ever. Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Handshake, and even Instagram can be powerful tools for staying connected with potential employers and industry professionals. Start by following companies and individuals in your desired field. Engage with their content—comment on posts, share relevant articles, and build your personal brand.
Your online presence should reflect both your professional aspirations and your personality. This balance is crucial: be formal enough to demonstrate your expertise, but personable enough to stand out. Consider writing op-eds, sharing insights, and staying active in discussions relevant to your field.
Beyond social media, joining professional organizations can open doors to new opportunities. These organizations often offer niche job boards, networking events, and industry conventions that aren’t accessible to the general public. They may also provide leadership opportunities, continuing education, and mentorship programs that can significantly boost your career.
Exploring Temporary and Contract Work: Gaining Experience and Building Connections
While waiting for full-time opportunities, consider taking on temporary or contract work. Although it may not be your ideal starting point, it provides valuable industry experience and a potential pathway to full-time employment. Temporary positions allow you to showcase your skills, build trust with employers, and expand your professional network.
If you excel in a temporary role, you may find that doors open to more permanent opportunities—either within the same company or through connections made during your time there. The key is to consistently exceed expectations, stay focused, and be patient.
Similarly, volunteering can be an excellent way to stay active in your field, develop new skills, and build connections. While it may not pay the bills, volunteering offers the chance to gain experience and demonstrate your commitment to your profession. Volunteering also introduces you to a broader community network, making it easier to find out about job openings before they’re advertised.
In addition to filling gaps on your resume, volunteering shows recruiters that you’re proactive and dedicated, which can make a strong impression when the job market picks up again.
Conclusion: Staying Resilient and Strategic During Uncertain Times
Navigating a hiring freeze is challenging, but it also presents an opportunity to differentiate yourself. By being strategic, proactive, and open to unconventional paths, you can build the skills and networks needed to succeed. Remember, this is a temporary situation—your persistence and adaptability now will pay off when the market rebounds.
Keep pushing forward, stay connected, and continue investing in your professional growth. Your dream job might be closer than you think!