How to stand out in the 2026 comms job market
Communications professionals seeking a new role in 2026 will know the current job market is tough, especially at senior levels.
Matt Harrison, Founder and Director of Hope & Glory, a Melbourne-based specialist recruitment firm focused on marketing, media and communications, shares his expert insights on how you can stand out.
Be proactive
Use every trick in the book to get noticed and find opportunities. From coffee catch-ups, engaging on LinkedIn, to picking up the phone – contacting the hirer before you apply is well worth the effort, as well as sending a thank you email after an interview. And your resume needs to be outstanding.
“When the market softens, the smart job seekers don’t wait for things to lift - they adapt. Meet the job market where it’s at, not where you wish it was. Right now, it’s super competitive, and those who lean into that competition - rather than just passively participating - will be more likely get interviews,” says Matt.
“Your CV remains a critical document - it deserves a full stress test. Look at it every which way: visual appeal, clarity, hierarchy of information, career narrative and so on. It should be a compelling read, look sharp, and make sense to someone who knows nothing about you yet has a hundred, maybe two hundred others to compare. That’s the reality of how decisions are often getting made right now.”
Leverage your skills
Many marketing, media and comms professionals are more comfortable talking up other people than themselves, but when applying for jobs, you have to harness those skills to sell yourself.
“The best comms candidates are great storytellers. They bring their experience to life in ways people genuinely remember and care about - with energy, colour, and clarity. If you’re not energised by telling your own story, it’s unlikely anyone else will be excited to hear it,” says Matt.
“Every message you send - whether it’s your CV, your cover letter or a LinkedIn post - should pass the WIFM test: what’s in it for them? The focus should always be on what the reader needs to know, not just what you want to say. Many people lose sight of this - the best job seekers always use this lens.”
Have hope
“After twenty years in recruitment, I’ve seen the highs and lows - but not a market that’s stayed this subdued for so long. But it will lift again at some stage, it always does. Here’s hoping 2026 brings a bit more energy back to Victoria’s comms employment scene.”
Joining a professional community such as IABC Victoria can be a great source of moral support, inspiration and new connections. We hope you’ll consider attending one of our events or becoming a member in 2026, and we wish you all the best with your job hunt!
