5 Ways to Become a ‘Career Daredevil’

Last week, amid stock-market instability, searches for the word “recession” tripled on Google. Naturally, most job candidates have decided to play it safe—to be more conservative about where they apply. But experts note that companies like Airbnb, Groupon, and Uber were all founded during the Great Recession, and that big risks can bring big rewards in moments of market uncertainty—for job applicants and careerists alike.

For sure, it’s a hirer's market. As companies become increasingly tech driven and specialized, experts counsel against sending out dozens or hundreds of résumés in the hope that they’ll get you where you want to go. “That’s insane,” says Chris Cantarella, global sector leader for the Software practice at Korn Ferry. “Stop posting your name and résumé on job boards.” Rather than relying on the ol’ “spray and pray” method to land your next gig, Korn Ferry’s experts say that now is the moment to make smart, big moves. Here are some of the ones they suggest.

Repackage yourself.

What problem do you help companies solve? What gap do firms have that you fill? You’re a product on the hiring market, and need to be marketed as such. Experts advise that you closely analyze industry dynamics, in addition to studying gaps at particular companies. Yes, this is time-consuming. “It’s very hard to know enough about what a company’s going through to be ready to talk about it in an interview,” says Cantarella. Still, that’s the main task when focusing on the product development of you.

Join a start-up.

Or start one. In downturns, talent is readily available at lower cost, operating expenses are lower, and competition is less intense—while seed funding often remains available. Whether you’re formalizing your side hustle or joining a fledgling tech firm, do yourself a favor and “be very clear about what roles you’ll play and not play,” says Patrick Reilly, an executive coach at Korn Ferry. For example, if you don’t like fundraising, make sure that’s not one of the many hats the job would require you to wear.

Focus on long-term compensation.

Cash is in short supply at many firms. If you’re keen to scoop up a salaried job, then trade short-term cash for longer-term incentives. “It will make you stand out as more appealing and aligned with the company’s goals,” says Maneesh Dube, senior client partner at Korn Ferry.

Volunteer in-house.

If you’re lucky enough to be employed, now is the moment to volunteer for a big in-house role that the organization needs. “Show your willingness to take one for the team, even if it’s not your biggest turn-on,” says Reilly. Whether you volunteer to be a cross-functional project lead or head an employee-resource group, taking on a big role brings visibility, learning, and job security.  

Learn more about Korn Ferry’s career-development capabilities from Korn Ferry Advance. 

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