We all know someone who is out of work, it’s tough right now. The job market for senior communications professionals is more challenging than ever. Triple-digit applications are now the norm, AI bots are screening CVs, and algorithms are serving mismatched roles. In this noisy, crowded space, how do you cut through and land the right opportunity? And how much time should you be spending on LinkedIn, what else could you be doing to secure your next job. We know, a job search is exhausting and it can easily wear down your emotional resilience.
As executive search consultants specialising in senior corporate communications roles, we've seen what works - and what doesn't. Protect your emotional resilience and follow the 10 golden rules to help you manage your job search with strategy, not stress.
Most roles in comms come through word of mouth, not the "Apply" button. Think of three well-networked individuals who rate you highly and would be willing to help. Not ten, not fifty, just three key contacts - we call it the magic three who understand your value and have strong connections. They will introduce you to opportunities and people – both in your network and beyond it – who may be able to help you.
Arrange to meet your magic three for a drink or breakfast. Prepare your elevator pitch: what you're looking for, what you bring, and how they might help. Be genuine, not transactional. As one Group Head of External Affairs we spoke to put it: "99 times out of 100, people are happy to meet and help. View each conversation as positive progress."
Your professional family wants to support you - let them.
When someone offers to help, feel free to send them an email after the meeting. If you don’t hear back for a week, following up. People are busy, and a gentle reminder keeps you on their radar without overwhelming them. A simple message such as: "Just checking in, any thoughts?" is often enough.
Persistence matters - be bold and brave and even when you are worrying that you’re being a pest, it will be persistence that will get you your next role.
Companies often list specific criteria to help filter the volume of applicants. But if you have 70-80% of what they're asking for, apply anyway. Hiring managers often prioritise cultural fit, transferable skills, and potential over ticking every box.
Communications is a discipline built on nuance - tone of voice, stakeholder management and the ability to craft messages that resonate. These qualities matter far more than a perfect keyword match. If you've led crisis comms in financial services and the role is in reinsurance, your experience is relevant. Don't filter yourself out.
LinkedIn job ads attract hundreds of applications, many of which are irrelevant or AI-generated. To cut through, consider alternative routes:
Even a simple note such as: "I've applied for the [role title] and wanted to reach out directly as I'm genuinely excited about this opportunity" can make you memorable among a sea of faceless applications.
Don't be shy about contacting the named recruiter either. One message could save you hours of effort and give you valuable intel about what they're really looking for.
Your CV should work for most roles. Yes, you might need two versions - one tailored for in-house roles, another for agency positions - but resist the urge to obsessively customise every application, it’s exhausting. Say your precious energy for something else.
Focus your energy on networking and strategic outreach, not on perfecting bullet points for the hundredth time. Remember: clarity often comes through action, not before it.
We have collated all of our best advice and built an AI prompt to overhaul your CV, giving you a great base to work from for most job applications.
One page maximum, or even just a strong paragraph summarising why you're suitable for the role. The main details should be in your CV, which should highlight standout achievements, not just a list of tasks.
Think impact, not activity. What did you deliver? What changed because of your work? That's what hiring managers want to see.
In both your LinkedIn profile and CV, use keywords so you get noticed by AI scans in applicant tracking systems. Be mindful that many applications are initially screened by bots, not humans.
But here's the irony: even when you pass the bot, a junior HR assistant or overwhelmed hiring manager may be reviewing your application - and they may not know what great looks like in your industry. They are unlikely to know the difference between any of the comms agencies (sorry!). That's why golden rule number 4 (going around the system) is so important.
Applying for jobs on LinkedIn has become exhausting. 80-90% of applicants for any given role won't be relevant for the level or experience required. Hiring teams are overwhelmed, and candidates are frustrated by the silence.
Be deliberate about where you apply. Ask yourself: Is this genuinely a good fit? Do I meet most of the criteria? Is the company one I'd actually want to work for?
Quality over quantity will save you time, energy, and your sanity.
Bite the bullet and enable LinkedIn's discreet "open to work" setting as it makes you visible without broadcasting your status to your entire network. This won’t activate the hideous banner around your face, but it does allow recruiters and HR people to find you. We use LinkedIn like a database and the people who are ‘open to work’ in their settings are most likely open to our opportunities. It will push you to the top of the list.
Update your profile to reflect your achievements, not just job descriptions. Share insights, comment thoughtfully on industry topics, and stay engaged. Visibility keeps you on the radar and, often, that's where opportunities come from.
Job searching can feel like a full‑time job, but burnout won’t get you hired. Set boundaries: dedicate specific hours to applications and networking, then switch off. Balance the grind with activities that restore you such as exercise, family time, or creative outlets. Treat progress in small wins: a new connection, a recruiter reply, an interview scheduled. Protecting your energy ensures you show up as your best self when the right opportunity comes along.
Yes, job searching is exhausting, but it doesn’t have to drain you. Protecting your energy and pacing yourself means you show up at your best when the right opportunity comes along. The best opportunities often come through relationships and referrals, not just the "Apply" button. Building these connections allows you to be proactive rather than passively waiting.
So be strategic, stay resilient, and lean on your professional family. Your next role isn't just waiting - it might be better than you imagined.
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The Works Search: a search consultancy specialising in PR and corporate communications. We have unrivalled matching abilities and are known for finding the top 5% performers in the industry - the ones who deliver and make your reputation great. For more advice or market insights, do get in touch with us on 0207 903 9291 or email: sarah@the-works.co.uk.
