Even if employees and job seekers find themselves in a down market that works against them, they are not as powerless as they think they are. No matter what, you have more control over your career than you might think. Despite the fact that no one might be hiring, there are a number of strategies that one can adopt so as to even the playing the field and help you find a job.
So, here are 5 strategies that will help you find a job and enjoy excellent results that will impact their
career positively:
1: Seek help from a career professional
If you opt for career support from a coach, you should be able to find a job as soon as possible. Some people might not be able to afford it so the options at your disposal include nonprofit agencies, government programmes , faith-based missions for unemployed or underemployed people as well as job search groups and college or alumni career centres. It’s advisable to get career testing done if you wish to change careers too, or even consult a mental health professional if you are having struggling emotionally.
2: Network as much as possible
Contacting people as much as possible and expanding your database should be an ongoing activity. This involves both business as well as personal relationships too. One way by which you can do this is by helping others even if they aren’t in a position to help you too. Also, ensure you connect with people on a one-to-one basis. Just because you are out of work does not mean you should stay out of touch. Keep that networking momentum going.
3: Attend career seminars and read career books
Given the number of learning opportunities that are available in any industry, take advantage of them so as to improve your chances to find a job. Once you stay in touch with career trends, this will also clue you in on the companies and careers that hold promise for the future. Also, remain in the market so as to stay current as well as maintain your intellectual capital too. When you begin to apply what you’ve learned, this will help you find a job faster.
4: Be open to find a job that is temporary, part-time or contract position
This approach is especially beneficial for those who wish to change industries. You can either find a job that involves volunteer work, work pro bono, sign a contract or work at an internship or apprenticeship too. No matter what, it is vital to keep yourself in the game or else your career will lose traction as a result.
5: Improve all the documents in your career portfolio
Adding more documents to your career portfolio is necessary while you’re out trying to find a job. Some of the documents that you can add to your career portfolio are a one-page bio, a list of employers, a 30-second speech, professional references, cover letters as well as a number of accomplishment stories. When you put it all together, this package will present a very professional image of what you can do.
In Closing…
Being flexible and adaptable as well as acting with urgency are a must along with these practical strategies while you’re out to find a job. Even if you feel frustrated about not finding a job immediately, ensure that you take of yourself too.
So, are there any other strategies that you can think of that will help the unemployed or underemployed find a job? If so, feel free to share them in the comments section below.