Today’s job market can confuse the most seasoned job seekers and those seeking a first-time employment opportunity. Breona Larmore, owner and career services consultant at B. Larmore Professional Services, possesses over 10 years of experience helping individuals strengthen their resumes and other career documents. The Anne Arundel County, Maryland resident supports individuals navigating the job market through resume writing, career document support, interview preparation, and building their confidence to effectively communicate their value to employers, from the start of the application process to the thank-you email after the interview. Larmore also provides services after a job offer is received. She stated that the current job market is mixed.

“According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, payroll employment increased by 57,000 jobs in June 2026, while the unemployment rate remained relatively low at 4.2%. At the same time, there were approximately 7.6 million job openings in May, but the hiring rate was only 3.3%. This suggests that opportunities are available, but job seekers may still face increased competition, slower hiring decisions, and longer hiring processes (https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm).

In-demand Industries

According to Larmore, industries connected to essential services and continued innovation are likely to remain in demand.

“Healthcare is one of the strongest examples because an aging population and increasingly complex patient needs continue to increase the need for care. The Association of American Medical Colleges projects a physician shortage of up to 86,000 by 2036, driven in part by population growth, an aging population, and physician retirements,” said Larmore.

Technology-related careers are also expected to remain in demand as artificial intelligence, data, cybersecurity, and digital systems become more integrated into everyday business operations. The World Economic Forum identifies artificial intelligence, big data, software development, and fintech among the fastest-growing occupational fields through 2030, while also projecting continued growth in care-related roles because of demographic changes.

Overall, healthcare and technology are likely to continue offering strong career opportunities, although demand will vary by occupation, location, and skill set.

How Job Applications are Screened

Many employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to help manage and screen job applications, although practices vary by organization.

 “These systems do not ‘hire’ candidates, but they can organize resumes, screen responses to application questions, and help recruiters identify applicants whose qualifications most closely align with the job requirements. In many cases, a recruiter still reviews the resumes that make it through the initial screening,” said Larmore.

Tailor Your Resume

“One trend I've noticed is that many job seekers tell me, "I'm applying for anything at this point." I also laugh at the social media memes showing someone with grocery-bagging experience applying to operate a complex machine. While they're meant to be funny, they highlight a real issue. Applying for positions that don't align with your skills or experience often leads to an early rejection,” Larmore noted.

What captures attention is a resume that clearly demonstrates alignment with the position.

“That means tailoring your resume to the job description, using relevant industry terminology when appropriate, and highlighting measurable accomplishments rather than simply listing responsibilities. Employers want to quickly see that you have the skills and experience needed to succeed in the role,” she continued.

Translate Your Experience

When a job seeker seeks to demonstrate a transfer of skills on a resume, Larmore tells them to start by identifying the skills required for the job they want, then to identify where they have already used those skills in previous roles.

“The key is to translate their experience into language that makes sense for the new field. Employers are often less concerned with where you gained a skill than they are with whether you can demonstrate it,” she explained.

The Emotional Impact of Unemployment

Larmore explained that a lot of time is spent talking about resumes, interviews, and job search strategies, but what job loss does to a person’s confidence, identity, and mental health is not always discussed. She believes that it is important for career professionals to acknowledge those emotions while also helping people move forward.

“Losing a job does not diminish someone’s value or erase years of experience. Sometimes people need encouragement just as much as they need help updating their resume. My goal is to help job seekers rebuild their confidence, recognize the value they still bring to the workforce, and position themselves for the next opportunity,” said Larmore.

Larmore Professional Services can be found on Facebook at:https://facebook.com/BLarmoreProfessionalServices and reach Larmore by calling 667-232-0095.