Essentials: Breaking Through a Frozen Job Market

There are 7 million-plus open roles in the US alone, and experts say savvy candidates are making the right moves to land those roles. 

October 15, 2025

It’s easy to feel dazed and confused in the current job market. The number of open roles has declined by 40% from three years ago, and many companies that have them aren’t in a rush to fill them. Plus, the process of finding, applying, and interviewing for a job seems so much more complicated than it did a few years ago.

Still, there are 7 million-plus open roles in the US alone, and candidates who are diligent and patient can find one they want with compensation they can live with. A few of the tips suggested below could help too. In this version of Korn Ferry’s Essentials, our experts highlight the things to do—and avoid—to make a modern job search easier.

5 Résumé Resolutions for Right Now

The average time needed to find a job is half a year. Experts say candidates need to revamp this document to squeeze past automated job trackers and human hiring managers.

5 ‘Skills’ to Hone for a Job Interview

The competition to even land an interview is getting tougher in 2025. “Sometimes, great candidates just don’t interview well.”

5 Tips for Giving off the Right Interview Vibes

Poor chemistry, going off script, or bad vibes can derail an interview. Our experts share their advice for creating a better atmosphere. 

6 Questions to Ask the Job Interviewer

Being curious about a potential employer may not only improve your chances of landing the role, but also help you decide whether you want to take it.

5 Ways to Land a New Role at Your Company

Many people who resolved to find a new job at the beginning of the year are still searching. But there’s one place they may have overlooked: their own companies.

5 Ways to Self-Improve While Unemployed 

Job hunters should expect long waits to find a role—and use that time to do more than search.

The Best Types of Job References

In a difficult job market, our experts explain which testimonials you really need.

 

Learn more about Korn Ferry’s Leadership and Professional Development capabilities.