Key Strategies for Finding a Job in a Tough Economy 

It’s no secret that 2025 has been a challenging year for job seekers. While industries like controlled environment agriculture (CEA) have already experienced downturns after years of over-expansion and unprofitable models, the issues with the hiring market in 2025 are deeper and vaster. For anyone finding a job in a tough economy, success requires persistence, strategy, and a willingness to adapt.

Although layoffs and hiring downturns are nothing new, the combined effect of several market pressures has led to a very unique climate:

• Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation
• Tariffs and trade wars between the United States and other nations
• Shifting consumer demands 

At M&F Talent, we talk with many professionals who are discouraged by how tough the job market feels right now. We can’t guarantee a placement for everyone, but we can offer guidance to help you stand out and succeed in your search.

Factors Shaping the 2025 Job Market  

With so many variables at play, from geopolitical uncertainty to disruptive technologies, many companies are struggling to set reliable budgets and develop clear hiring plans. Within M&F Talent’s core industries of agriculture and food production, this holds true for both producers and manufacturers.

Automation

With the advent of AI and other emerging technologies, the U.S. labor market is rapidly evolving in both how people work and the types of jobs they pursue. According to the McKinsey Global Institute, “By 2030, activities that account for up to 30 percent of hours currently worked across the US economy could be automated.” With a total workforce of 170 million people, AI may potentially impact over 50 million jobs in the US.

Trade Tariffs

Trade tariffs have introduced significant uncertainty, leading many manufacturers to delay or scale back hiring. Meanwhile, increased costs for key materials such as steel and copper have added pressure on U.S. producers, challenging growth and long-term planning across key industries like construction, automotive, energy, and consumer goods. Due in large part to global trade wars, CNN reports that job growth in the US dropped off by nearly 75% between Q2 and Q3 2025. 

Shifting Consumer Demand

In 2025, shifting consumer behavior is also reshaping the job market. As people spend more cautiously and place greater value on digital convenience and affordability, sectors like retail and hospitality are experiencing slower growth and workforce reductions. For example, many traditional brick-and-mortar retailers continue to downsize in response to rising demand for online shopping.

Tips for Job Searching in Uncertain Times  

While the 2025 job market presents its share of challenges, you can still stand out by approaching your search strategically. Finding a job in a tough economy often means going the extra mile and finding creative ways to set yourself apart from other candidates.

1. Clearly Market In-Demand Skills  

One trend our recruiting team has noticed is that fewer positions now require a bachelor’s degree, signaling a broader shift toward skills-based hiring. In other words, employers in 2025 tend to value practical experience and measurable results over formal education. To account for this trend, we recommend highlighting specific, in-demand skills in your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile. 

• Tip: Always clearly quantify your impact at past jobs on your resume. To illustrate, stating “reduced costs by 15%” is much more informative than simply stating “helped manage budgets.” 

1. Double Down on Networking  

While it may sound simple, networking is still one of the most effective ways to find work in a competitive job market. It doesn’t always come naturally for people in technical or hands-on roles—like engineers, scientists, or production specialists—but building connections is just as important for uncovering new opportunities in these fields.

Leading career coaches note that about 70% of job seekers find their next role through networking, often not through direct contacts but through second or third-degree connections.

• Tip: Building momentum in your job search requires steady interaction with your professional network. Aim for about 5 meaningful connections each week, such as attending networking events, engaging on LinkedIn, or reaching out to former colleagues. 

1. Tailor Every Application  

As tedious as it may feel, customizing every application is worth the effort. In a world overwhelmed with information and AI-generated content, taking the time to write a thoughtful cover letter and align your resume with the job description can set you apart from other applicants. Before tailoring your application, take the time to thoroughly research each company by reviewing its website, LinkedIn page, and recent job postings.

• Tip: Include specific details about recent company news in your cover letter to show that you have been doing your homework. For example, you might write, “I saw your company’s recent expansion into sustainable packaging. I’m eager to apply my experience in supply chain optimization to support that initiative.”

1. Stay Open & Flexible  

In today’s highly competitive market, you may need to be more flexible with certain job requirements than in the past. While the COVID-19 era emphasized work-life balance across many industries, 2025 has seen a shift in the opposite direction. Many employers are once again focusing on in-office collaboration, longer hours, and increased productivity as economic pressures and performance expectations rise.

• Tip: List the perks and benefits you want in your next role, such as location, salary, and flexibility, then decide which ones you’re willing to compromise on. Knowing your true deal breakers upfront can help you stay focused and avoid disappointment later in the interview process.

1. Lean on Industry-Specific Recruiters   

Partnering with an industry-specific recruiter like M&F Talent is one of the best ways to gain an edge in your job search. Experienced niche recruiters maintain long-standing relationships with employers who reach out to them before posting jobs publicly. A skilled recruiter can also help you strengthen your resume, refine your cover letter, and prepare for interviews.

• Tip: Staying on a recruiter’s radar with an occasional email or text shows that you’re serious about your job search and helps you stay top of mind. At M&F Talent, we sometimes stay in touch with candidates for years before ultimately finding the right opportunity for them.

Summary: Finding a Job in a Tough Economy Requires Strategy & Support  

As we approach the end of 2025, the challenges facing job seekers are among the most complex in U.S. history. With a $36 trillion national debt, rising tariffs, AI-driven disruption, and shifting consumer demands, today’s workforce is under immense pressure to adapt and protect their careers. While many job search fundamentals remain the same, the urgency behind these actions has never been greater. If you’re focused on finding a job in a tough economy, remember that creativity, persistence, and the right partnerships can make all the difference.

With so much uncertainty ahead, the recruitment team at Mac & Fulton Talent Partners encourages you to get creative with your job search. If you have the chance to meet someone in person at a networking event or trade show, take it. Nothing leaves a stronger impression in today’s digital hiring landscape than a face-to-face conversation. Likewise, partnering with a specialized recruiter like M&F Talent can give you a competitive edge.

Find Your Next Job Opportunity with M&F Talent

Job markets are constantly changing. With the right strategy and support, you can be successful with finding a job in a tough economy. If you’re pursuing new opportunities in agriculture, food production, or CEA, M&F Talent can give you the guidance and connections to make career moves in 2025 and beyond. 

Need more info on finding a job in a tough economy? Contact us today!