Some economists say we are in a white collar recession. Some blame AI for filling in for roles once held by humans. Others believe that companies aren’t hiring because they’re waiting until after the election to see how the market responds. Whatever the reasons, many talented editors are out of work, especially at the senior and executive level. And many content leaders in full-time roles (within media and outside) are losing the resources to hire talent or invest in the high-quality content they were brought on to create.
Of course, the media (and marketing) industry has never been a stable one. And I’m willing to bet it never will be. To survive, you have to be a surfer willing to ride the waves, get pummeled, and get back up! This is the nature of our business and the price we pay for being in a creative, dynamic industry. If you feel like you or your business is facing a crashing wave, keep these things in mind.
- Storytelling — good storytelling — is a skill that has been in demand since our ancestors told tales around the fire, and it will always be needed in society and in business. Don’t believe me? Listen to Scott Galloway.
- Communication, the grandparent of storytelling, is absolutely crucial in today’s marketplace. Linked In listed it as the #1 skill of 2024 and one of the six most crucial skills in the age of AI.
- Adaptability is the key to longevity. I found this article by Josh Bersin as scary (he says we’re looking at long-term labor shortages) as it is hopeful. His advice: “If you — as a professional, a manager, or a leader — really know how to ‘drive and execute change,’ these economic cycles are just ‘blips’ in your career.” If you embody the above three traits, foster them in your team, and prioritize them in the talent you hire, you will ride out this storm, too. Hang tough, my friends.
Chandra Turner is a recruiter and career coach who specializes in connecting editorial and content marketing talent with brands, nonprofits and startups. #editorsmakethebesthires
Where Are The Editorial Jobs?
»