How I landed a new job in a saturated market?

Are you trying to break into your first job or make a career switch? Still searching? I get it — it’s tough out there! Earlier this year, in January 2024, I decided to switch from my first company. I wanted to join a team with fellow designers where I could learn, grow, and find inspiration alongside others. But the reality? The market was crowded, and the competition was intense.

Like many, I had heard all the advice: “Post your work on LinkedIn, share what you’re working on, get yourself noticed.” At first, I wasn’t too enthusiastic. I started posting casually on LinkedIn, not really expecting much, just testing the waters. Little did I know where it would lead.

The game-changer: Why I turned to LinkedIn?

One day, I received a message on LinkedIn from someone who owned a service-based company in my city. He promised a great team of designers, an environment full of creativity, and the chance to collaborate and grow. It sounded like just the right move, so I decided to give it a shot and joined in April.

But the reality was quite different from what I’d imagined. Instead of a team of designers, I found myself as the only one. I spent most of my time redesigning websites, which was interesting at first, but over time, I felt a nagging sense of imposter syndrome creep in. By August, I realized it was time for a change, so I handed in my resignation (the best thing I did this year).

Creating a digital presence: Posting consistently to get noticed

When I left that second job, I decided to take social media posting more seriously. This time, I wasn’t just going to test it out; I was going to commit. I shared everything I created, no matter how small or simple it seemed. I connected with people, applied to companies on various job platforms, and took every interview I could get.

I’ll be sharing some of the top platforms where you can showcase your work. Some of these have worked for me, and others might be perfect for you!

I faced rejection after rejection. Companies, startups, agencies — you name it. And though each rejection stung a little, I kept pushing, connecting with people, and staying active on LinkedIn.

From posts to opportunity: How this strategy worked for me?

Then came a breakthrough. One day, someone reached out to me on LinkedIn with an unusual offer: a project they needed help with. The catch? It was unpaid. I was hesitant but decided to hear him out, and after we had a call, I agreed to work on it.

As we worked together, I poured my best into the project, and before long, he made me a surprising offer — he wanted me to join his company as a founding designer! And that was it — my third role, a full-time position I could genuinely be excited about.

This opportunity came directly from my LinkedIn activity, from putting my work out there, getting feedback, and making real connections.

Key takeaways: What worked and why it matters?

This journey taught me a lot about job hunting in today’s market, and I want to share these takeaways with you:

• Consistency is Key: Posting regularly helped keep me visible. Even if people didn’t respond immediately, it allowed my network to see my growth and progress over time.

• Connections Matter: It’s not just about posting; it’s about connecting with others. Reach out, engage with others’ posts, and join conversations.

• Taking a Leap of Faith: Sometimes, opportunities come in unexpected ways. Be open to projects and connections that might seem small — they can lead to bigger things.

• Patience and Resilience: Rejections can be tough, but every ‘no’ brings you closer to a ‘yes.’ Keep going.

Ready to stand out? Here’s what you can do — 

So, if you’re navigating a saturated market, my advice is simple: give yourself a voice online. Share what you’re working on, reach out to people, and stay consistent. Even when it feels like no one’s watching, remember that every post adds to your presence.

You might just find, like I did, that the right opportunity comes when you least expect it.

Some of the platforms where you can post your work — 

1. Peerlist

2. Behance

3. Dribbble

4. Pinterest