1M Unemployed? Let us Help One Another: As CBS News reported January 14, 2021, first-time jobless claims jumped to ~965,000—a stark reminder of how fast conditions can change. YouTube
More recently, October 2025 saw the highest October layoffs in 22 years, underscoring ongoing volatility. CBS News
I read the news today oh boy. Nearly a million folks will not get paid. And though the news was rather bad. I saw the chance for grace, by helping our neighbor’s case.
Jobless claims surged by 1 million last week, indicating that jobs are being again impacted by domestic terror and the coronavirus. Times are challenging for sure.
Yet, We Move: Community, Networking, and Mutual Aid
Even in hard times, we can act—together. And networking still moves the needle. Estimates from career experts and surveys consistently show a large share of hires flow through relationships (often cited in the 70–85% range). Payscale+1
Quick Ways to Help Each Other (Right Now)
- Write (give) and receiving amazing LinkedIn Recommendations
- Vouched skills: be both a giver and receiver of skills endorsements
- Share Best Practices Networks to keep current, industry skills
- Join the big connect on Professionals: Jobs n Career Success Network
Scripts You Can Reuse (Active Voice, Easy to Send)
Ask for a Recommendation
“Would you be open to a brief LinkedIn rec? Perhaps note [project/result], [skill], and the outcome ([metric] or stakeholder feedback). I’m happy to draft a starter if helpful—thank you!”
Offer a Recommendation
“I’d love to write you a quick rec highlighting [skill/impact]. Anything specific you want emphasized for your search?”
Request Skills Endorsements
“I’m targeting roles in [focus]. If you’ve seen me use [skills], would you mind endorsing those on LinkedIn? I’ll gladly endorse your top skills too.”
Smart, Compassionate Job Search: A Mini-Playbook
- Optimize profile weekly: headline, About, skills, projects.
- Activate #OpenToWork (recruiters-only if you need discretion). LinkedIn
- Network with intent: 5 value-first messages/day, 2 warm intros/week. Wall Street Journal
- Show proof: posts, mini-case studies, and before/after metrics.
- Trade support: recommendations, mock interviews, referral swaps.
A Note of Grace—and Grit
Yes, the headlines can hit hard. And still, we can choose connection, share referrals, and create momentum for one another. If you’re #OpenToWork, drop your focus roles below. If you’re hiring, tell us what you need. Together, we’ll help neighbors land faster.
References: CBS unemployment coverage (historic), recent layoff trends, networking impact research, and LinkedIn #OpenToWork help. LinkedIn+4YouTube+4CBS News+4
#OpenToWork, Done Right (LinkedIn Feature & Strategy)
What it is: LinkedIn lets you signal you’re open to opportunities—publicly (with the green photo frame) or discreetly to recruiters only. LinkedIn
How to turn it on (fast):
- Go to your profile → Open to → Finding a new job.
- Add roles, locations, and work preferences.
- Choose visibility: Recruiters only (discreet) or All LinkedIn members (green frame). LinkedIn
Why it helps: Recruiters filter for candidates marked open, which can raise your visibility in searches—especially if your profile is optimized. Huntr
Beyond #OpenToWork, LinkedIn enabled additional New Features that allow people to Give and Receive Help . If you are seeking work, consider enabling the feature. Then Notify your network.
A-Z | Employment Taskforce | Recruiting Network | Jobs N Career Success Networks – Facebook | LinkedIn