When you’ve been out of work for a while, trying to find a new job can seem a little intimidating. From not knowing where to look or even how to begin, the job search can be exhausting and disheartening. But it doesn’t have to be like that. In fact, there are many great ways to go about getting a job when you’ve been out of work for a while.
Fine Tune Your Resume
Your resume is by far the greatest tool in your job-searching toolbox. This piece of paper can either make or break your chance at scoring a job interview. Before you submit your resume with an application, you want to make sure you showcase skills that are transferable to that specific job. For example, if you are applying for a managerial job, you want to word your resume with verbs such as supervises or manages.
You want to also make sure your resume is error-free and reads well. One great way to proofread your resume is read it out loud to yourself. And remember, it never hurts to have another set of eyes look at it and give you some suggestions as well.
Create a LinkedIn Profile
An easy way to put yourself out there in the job market is by creating a LinkedIn profile. Creating an account will allow you to essentially put your career experience and education online for thousands of people to see. You can build your network by connecting with local professionals while also asking for referrals and endorsements, all within the site.
Employers from all over the world search for people with profiles who match with jobs they have available. A basic profile on LinkedIn is free. All you have to do is sign up and transfer your resume info into the site.
Fill Your Free Time With Experience
So you’ve been out of work for a while and are nervous about the gaps in your resume. A great way to combat that is to fill up your free time with activities that add to your experience. There are always places looking for volunteers. Having more experience on your resume, regardless if it was from a paid position or not, will help you explain those gaps. Any experience is good experience.
If an interviewer asks about the gaps in your resume, be honest with them. It is better to be straightforward and honest than try to wiggle your way out of it. That’s why it’s also great to keep busy when you’re out of work for a while. You want to be able to let your potential employer know that you were not just sitting around for the time that you were unemployed.
Have a Positive Attitude
This may seem like a no-brainer but having a good attitude is half the battle. The last thing you want to do when applying or interviewing for a job is to appear frustrated or upset. If you keep your head up and your spirits high, people will take note of that, especially interviewers. Being nervous or intimidated sometimes makes us forget how we appear, so it’s important that you smile and give off positive energy – and don’t fake it. People will know when you are.
Use a Staffing Agency
Staffing agencies are always looking for great talent. From entry-level positions to higher-level roles, most agencies have hundreds of different jobs you can apply for. The recruiter’s job is to get you out to work and put some money in your pocket. They will work tirelessly to find a job that fits your expertise – and it’s usually a quick turnaround.
And agencies don’t just offer temp jobs either. Many firms have a variety of direct-hire positions and typically also offer temp-to-hire positions. Even if you start off in a temporary role, you could eventually be hired on full time.
When you’ve been out of work for a while, finding a new opportunity can be a daunting task – but it’s far from impossible.
If you’re looking for someone to partner with on your next job search, contact a recruiter at Alliance Solutions Group and we’d be happy to help.
