Find a Job in Vietnam’s Recession: Tips & Resources

How to Find a Job During an Economic Downturn — Especially in Vietnam

1. Focus on Industries That Are Still Growing or Less Affected

Even during a downturn, certain industries remain stable or continue growing:

• Information Technology (AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, e-commerce)

• Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals

• Supply Chain & Logistics (especially e-commerce-related)

• High-tech Agriculture and Food Processing

• Online Education and Skills Training

• Export and FDI – Foreign companies looking to shift operations to Vietnam

2. Revise Your CV to Show Flexibility and Problem-Solving

• Emphasize transferable skills: Risk management, cost optimization, process improvement, multitasking...

• Show how you can help the company cut costs or operate more efficiently – a major concern for employers in tough times.

3. Leverage Personal and Professional Networks

• 70–80% of job opportunities come from networking.

• Attend industry conferences, workshops, and meetups.

• Proactively connect on LinkedIn and introduce yourself to people in your field, including headhunters.

• Ask friends or former colleagues to share leads or refer you.

4. Continuously Upgrade Your Skills

• Take online courses in critical areas: Advanced Excel, data analysis, project management (Agile, Scrum), B2B sales, foreign languages (English/Chinese/Japanese)...

• Earning certificates from Coursera, Google, HubSpot, Harvard Online, etc., can boost your profile.

5. Be More Flexible in the Short Term

• Consider freelance, part-time, project-based, or short-term contract work.

• Be open to roles slightly below your previous level or in adjacent industries if you can still apply your skills.

• The goal is to stay active and earn income during this difficult period, then realign your career path once the market recovers.

6. Understand Employer Mindset During a Downturn

Recruiters tend to prioritize candidates who:

• Can handle multiple responsibilities

• Are self-sufficient and require little training

• Can start immediately and accept challenges

• Show long-term commitment and don’t job-hop

• Have salary expectations aligned with the job role

7. Work with Recruitment Specialists

Reach out to headhunting firms such as Invest Talent or specialized recruitment agencies for better access to hidden job opportunities.

✅ List of Effective Job Boards in Vietnam

I. General & Multi-industry Job Boards

II. Job Boards for International Jobs, Expats, or FDI Companies

III. For Students and Fresh Graduates

IV. Industry-Specific Job Boards

Additionally, you can contact Invest Talent consultantsfor personalized support with job placement.
Email: [email protected]