What’s In (and Out) for Your 2026 Job Search
2026 hiring is already moving at full speed. Searches are launching, interviews are happening, and offers are being made. I’m especially energized this month because we have so much going on to support jobseekers in this current moment (see them in the events section below).
Our newsletter this week is about 2026 “ins” and “outs” for a job search. I saw so many people making these lists for their New Year’s resolutions — so I made one for your search. Here’s what I’m seeing across mission-driven hiring spaces and what it means for you as a jobseeker.
What’s IN for your 2026 Job Search
Networking & Relationship-Building
I’ll say it again and again. This is the most important part of your job search. The best hires come from conversations, referrals, and trusted relationships. To be clear, networking doesn’t mean awkward or transactional outreach. Meaningful networking looks like:
Catching up with former colleagues
Reaching out to people doing work you admire
Letting folks know you’re exploring what’s next
Want help getting started? Check out our networking toolkit. It gives you a suite of tools to develop your networking strategy: set your goals, identify who you’ll reach out to, draft your messages, and track your progress. If you don’t have it yet, just join the NRG Talent Network, and we’ll email it to you.
A Clear Pitch
Hiring teams respond to candidates who know what skills they bring, know “why this role, why now,” and know what they’re looking for in their next chapter.
Finding this clarity early can really set you up for success throughout the process. So at the start of your search, shoot for clarity over perfection. You don’t need to spend hours crafting the “perfect” resume. Instead, invest your time in finding clear direction and honing in on your story.
Resumes That Showcase Impact
Recruiters want the basics: where you worked and when, ideally a through-line of time that walks them through your career chronologically. But what really sticks is impact.
Instead of listing tasks and responsibilities, focus on what changed because you were there. This is where the outcomes and numbers come in. Impact tells a story, and stories are what people remember.
Strong Communication
Candidates who move forward tend to be responsive, prepared, and honest.
That means being thoughtful (and realistic) about compensation, start dates, preparing for interviews, and sending thank-you notes promptly. Throughout the process, hiring teams are paying close attention to how you communicate.
What’s OUT for your 2026 Job Search
Easy Apply As A Strategy
Easy Apply feels productive, but for most mission-driven roles, it’s not where hires are coming from. Another way to look at it is that if you’re applying without context or connection, you’re competing in the hardest lane.
Instead, apply less and network more. Focus on roles that truly fit what you’re looking for, and be strategic about your resume, application materials, and outreach.
Waiting For The “Right” Time
Interview processes can feel slow, but application timelines move fast. Waiting for the “right time” often turns into, “I’ll do this next week when I’m less busy.” And next week becomes the next week.
Instead, block out time for your job search throughout each week, and stick to it.
Doing It Alone
Job searching solo is harder, slower, and more discouraging. Community makes this process easier and more effective.
Know someone on the search? See if they’ll be your job search buddy – set up weekly check-ins, share each other’s goals, and hold each other accountable. Looking for more support? We start our Launch Your Search Cohorts later this month, and we have a couple spots left.
Executive Director @ Anonymous Organization | Remote | $220K-$240K
Development Director @ Upstream | Remote | $120K-$130K
Development Director @ PowerSwitch Action | Remote | $91K-$114K
Campaign Director @ Pramila for Congress | Remote, Seattle Preferred | $110K-$120K
Manager, Executive Office @ Growald Climate Fund | Boston Preferred or Remote | $117K-$140K
Senior Portfolio Manager, Field Innovation @ Growald Climate Fund | Boston Preferred or Remote | $120K-$140K
Policy & Advocacy Director @ Protecting Immigrant Families Coalition | Remote in DC | $120K-$130K
Rapid Response Writer @ Freedom Forum | Remote | $115K-$120K
Business Development Director @ Cooperative Home Care Associates | Bronx, NY | $115K-$140K
Media Director @ Working America | DC | $155K+
That’s not all! We’re hiring for additional jobs and you can see all of them on the NRG website.
Upcoming Programs & Events
1/28 Launch Your Search Cohorts
On January 28, 2026, we’re kicking off our pilot Launch Your Search Cohorts. Sign up for coaching, accountability partners, and a networking community.
2/5 NRG Networking Hour
On February 5, 2026, join our pay-what-you-can virtual networking hour. Whether you’re actively job searching, exploring your next move, or simply looking to expand your network of like-minded professionals, this session is for you.
Part Time Opportunity
Two organizations in our network are seeking part-time scheduling support right now. We’re looking for an experienced scheduler for this opportunity to assist with executives with calendar management. If that’s you (or someone you know), fill out this quick form to raise your hand.
📢 Follow NRG on LinkedIn to stay up to date on the roles we’re hiring for.
📬 Not a member of the NRG Talent Network yet? Fill out a quick form and let us know you're thinking about your next role.
Let’s move,
Naomi
P.S. If you’d like a partner to help you with your job search strategy, learn how NRG’s coaching programs can help you.
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