O’Donnell: What do I really need to get hired in 2025?

I’m feeling stuck in my job search. I’ve applied to dozens of roles online with barely any responses. It’s starting to feel hopeless. Can you tell me what I’m missing? What does it really take to get hired in 2025? — Emily

J.T.: Emily, I hear this exact frustration from so many smart, capable professionals right now — and you’re absolutely not alone. The job market in 2025 is nothing like it was even a few years ago. The rules have changed and success now hinges on seven key things. Let me walk you through each one so you can get back in the driver’s seat and feel confident again.

1. A job search strategy that actually works. First, the “spray and pray” method of applying to tons of jobs online doesn’t work anymore. Most online job listings are overwhelmed with hundreds — sometimes thousands — of applicants. The key now is to build a job search strategy that flips the script. That means identifying target companies that align with your values and skills, learning about their challenges and then finding ways to connect with people inside those companies. When you approach your search strategically and with purpose, you dramatically increase your chances of getting noticed.

2. A “six-second” skimmable resume. Did you know recruiters spend about six seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to keep reading? That means your resume must be clean, easy to scan and laser-focused on the value you offer. Lead with a strong headline, follow with measurable achievements and skip the fluff. Your resume isn’t a history report — it’s a marketing tool. Make it about what you’ve done for the companies you’ve worked for, not just the tasks you were assigned.

3. A keyword-optimized LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is the new Google for recruiters. If your profile isn’t optimized, you won’t even show up in searches. You need to include the right keywords in your headline, summary and experience sections — ones that match the roles you’re going for. But beyond keywords, your profile should tell a cohesive story. Why do you do what you do? What kind of problems do you solve? Help recruiters and hiring managers see your value before they even meet you.

4. A regular posting routine on LinkedIn. This one surprises people: In 2025, your LinkedIn activity plays a big role in your visibility. Posting once or twice a week — whether it’s an article you liked, a thought about your industry or a simple career lesson — keeps you top of mind. When recruiters and hiring managers visit your profile (and they will), they see someone engaged, thoughtful and current. That gives you credibility, and credibility leads to opportunity.

5. Mastery of behavioral interview questions. Even if you make it to the interview, a lack of preparation can trip you up. Companies are relying heavily on behavioral interview questions to assess how you think, act and grow from experiences. You need a structure to tell your stories with impact. Don’t just share what happened — explain what you learned and how you’ve applied that insight since. That’s what shows emotional intelligence, adaptability and value.

6. A follow-up strategy that keeps you in the running. A lot of candidates think a simple thank-you email is enough after an interview. While it’s a good start, the real magic is in strategic follow-up. That means sending a personalized thank-you that reinforces how you solve the company’s pain points. If there’s a delay in hearing back, don’t panic — but do check in with polite persistence. Companies want to hire people who are enthusiastic and professional, not passive.

7. A personal brand that makes you memorable. Finally — and maybe most importantly in today’s market — you need a personal brand. It’s what people remember about you after you leave the room. Your brand should clearly communicate your unique strengths, your values and the impact you make. This isn’t about self-promotion or being flashy; it’s about consistency. The same story should be reflected in your resume, your LinkedIn, your networking conversations and your interview responses. When your brand is clear, people remember you — and they trust you.

So Emily, to get hired in 2025, it’s not just about being qualified — it’s about being seen, remembered and respected for your value. When you align these seven things, the job search becomes a whole lot less mysterious and a lot more empowering.