hyrUP Hype

Miss us? Yeah, we missed you too. 

After a brief hiatus (because even recruiting rockstars need a second to breathe), we’re back in action, caffeinated to the max, and more pumped than a spin class instructor at 6 a.m. Let’s dive into what’s new, what’s hot, and what’s hilariously relatable in the world of executive recruiting.

Where Did We Go?

Let’s be real, we didn’t really go anywhere. We just took a breather to catch up on all the resumes, Zoom calls, and existential questions about how many cups of coffee are too many. But now we’re back and ready to crush Q4 like the overachievers we are.

Talent Demand: Like Pumpkin Spice in November, It's Everywhere

The job market is hotter than a $7 latte, and companies are scrambling to secure top talent before the year ends.

• Accounting & Finance Pros: Because someone’s gotta make sense of those year-end spreadsheets.

• IT Wizards: Still keeping us safe from hackers and your Uncle Steve’s questionable “password123” login habits.

• Sales Superstars: Closing deals faster than we can say, “budget approvals.”

Need help finding your next hire? We’ve got your back—and our database is ready to flex. Get in touch

📰 Trending News: What’s Shaping the Industry?

• Hasbro faces new challenges: Hasbro, maker of iconic toys like Nerf and Monopoly, is bracing for potential tariffs on Chinese imports under President-elect Donald Trump by cutting costs, redesigning products, and reducing reliance on China, aiming to lower China-made sales to 20% by 2027. While rising labor costs and shifting trade policies have driven a move to countries like Vietnam and India, challenges include training skilled workers and finding factories with comparable scale and quality. Amid layoffs and cost-saving efforts, Hasbro is focusing on high-margin products like Magic: The Gathering, its first billion-dollar brand, to offset industry slumps and trade uncertainties.

• Spirit Airlines Files for Bankruptcy Amid Financial Turbulence: Spirit Airlines has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing insurmountable debt and growing competition from larger carriers. The airline’s ultralow-cost model faced challenges as major airlines offered competitive fares, while rising labor costs and engine issues grounded part of its fleet. Spirit had pursued a merger with JetBlue Airways, but the deal was blocked by a federal judge over concerns it would hurt budget-conscious travelers. After failed attempts to address its debts and revive talks with Frontier Airlines, Spirit is now restructuring to stay afloat.

• Warner Bros. Discovery Secures New NBA Content Deal Amid Rights Shift

  Warner Bros. Discovery has settled its lawsuit with the NBA, securing an 11-year deal for international NBA content and the ability to develop new programming, even as TNT loses regular and postseason game rights next year. The agreement ensures $350 million in revenue through programming and marketing and extends digital NBA access for platforms like Bleacher Report and House of Highlights. Additionally, Warner Bros. Discovery will air Big 12 college sports games via a new partnership with ESPN and move the popular “Inside the NBA” show to Disney networks, filling the programming gap left by the NBA’s departure.

🔥 Companies to Watch

1. xAI

Industry: Artificial Intelligence

Overview: Founded by Elon Musk, xAI focuses on developing advanced AI technologies. In May 2024, the company raised a $6 billion Series B round, valuing it at $24 billion.

2. AlphaSense

Industry: Market Intelligence

Overview: AlphaSense offers a platform that provides market intelligence and research tools. In June 2024, the New York-based startup raised a $650 million Series F round, bringing its total funding to over $1.4 billion and valuing the company at $4 billion

3. Etched.ai

Industry: Artificial Intelligence

Overview: Etched.ai, based in San Francisco, specializes in AI-driven software solutions. In June 2024, the company raised a $120 million Series A round, indicating strong investor confidence in its technology and market potential.

Career Strategies for Those Affected by Layoffs

Layoffs can be overwhelming, but they also present an opportunity to pivot, grow, and redefine your career. Here are actionable strategies to help you navigate this transition and position yourself for success:

1. Take Time to Process and Reflect

Layoffs can feel personal, but they’re often a result of broader market conditions. Give yourself time to process the change and reflect on what you want in your next role.

Ask yourself: What skills did I enjoy using? What kind of work environment suits me best?

2. Revamp Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Update your resume to showcase your most recent accomplishments. Highlight measurable results, leadership experiences, and adaptability.

• LinkedIn Tips:

  • Enable the “Open to Work” badge (if comfortable).

  • Network actively by engaging with posts, joining groups, and reconnecting with contacts.

3. Upskill and Stay Relevant

Use this time to develop new skills or deepen existing ones.

• Free Resources: Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Khan Academy offer courses in high-demand areas like data analysis, coding, and digital marketing.

• Certifications in fields like project management, AI, or cloud computing can make you stand out.

4. Tap Into Your Network

Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and friends to let them know you’re exploring new opportunities.

• Be specific: Share the type of role, industry, or company you’re targeting.

• Attend networking events or virtual meetups to expand your connections.

5. Consider Freelancing or Contract Work

Short-term projects can help bridge the gap and showcase your skills to potential employers. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal can connect you with opportunities in various industries.

6. Work with Recruiters

Partnering with recruiters at hyrUP can open doors to unadvertised opportunities. Share your updated resume and be clear about your goals to help them match you with the right roles. Get in touch with one of our team members.

Experiencing a layoff is never easy, but it can be an opportunity to pause, reset, and refocus on what truly matters in your career. Use this time to explore your passions, build new skills, and reconnect with your network. Remember, every challenge comes with the potential for growth, and this could be the perfect moment to reengage with your goals and chart a fresh path forward. Stay positive, believe in your abilities, and trust that new opportunities are just around the corner. You've got this!

Closing Note: Keep the Momentum Going

That’s a wrap for this edition of hyrUP Hype! Whether you’re navigating market changes, hiring top talent, or planning your next big move, we’re here to help you stay ahead. Remember, success is built on bold decisions, innovative thinking, and great teams—and hyrUP is here to make sure you have all three. Let’s tackle the challenges, seize the opportunities, and keep building something extraordinary together. Until next time, keep the momentum going! 🚀

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