According to Investopedia, job openings declined in November, signaling a more competitive job market as employers slowed hiring toward the end of the year. While fewer openings can feel discouraging, especially for people who already face barriers to employment, this data does not mean that finding a job is impossible.
For many people who are blind or have low vision, the job search already feels harder than it should be. When opportunities shrink, it’s normal to feel anxious or uncertain. The good news is that there are steps you can take to strengthen your chances and stay competitive, even in a tighter market.
Fewer Openings Can Mean Fewer Choices—But Not No Choices
When jobs are plentiful, applicants often have more flexibility and more options to choose from. When openings become scarcer, employers may receive more applications for each role. This can make the process feel more frustrating, but it doesn’t eliminate opportunity.
A slower job market is a reminder to be strategic, persistent, and prepared.
Keep Your Resume Current—and Tailored
One of the most important steps you can take is making sure your resume is up to date and reflects your current skills, experience, and accomplishments.
- Have your resume reviewed by an experienced hiring professional if possible.
- Customize your resume for each job you apply for.
- Use keywords from the job description so your resume aligns with what employers are looking for.
- Be honest—never claim skills or experience you don’t actually have.
Tailoring your resume shows employers that you understand the role and have taken the time to apply thoughtfully.
Practice Interviews to Reduce Anxiety
Interview anxiety is real, and it affects many job seekers—especially when the stakes feel high.
Practicing your interview responses ahead of time can make a big difference. Consider:
- Doing mock interviews with vocational counselors, career coaches, or trusted professionals.
- Asking hiring managers if they would be open to informational interviews.
- Practicing common interview questions out loud so your answers feel natural.
Preparation helps you feel more confident and focused when the interview actually happens.
Use Interviews as Learning Opportunities
Every interview can teach you something—even if you don’t get the job.
At the end of an interview, consider asking a question like:
“What could I have done better in this interview?”
Not every interviewer will provide feedback, but many will. This shows that you’re open to constructive feedback and committed to improving. Any insights you receive can help you perform better in future interviews.
Stay Encouraged and Keep Moving Forward
A slower hiring market can feel discouraging, but it doesn’t define your ability or your future. Staying prepared, flexible, and proactive can help you stand out, even when competition increases.
At Penny Forward, we believe that access to accurate information and practical strategies empowers people to move forward with confidence—no matter what the job market looks like.
Source:
This post is based on reporting from Investopedia: “Job Openings Were Scarcer In November”
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