This blog is Part II of Coping with Termination and Unemployment.
Being unemployed takes a financial, social, and even emotional toll on most people looking for work. As time passes, the pressure to find a new position feels like a boa constrictor wrapped around your chest cavity that becomes tighter and tighter.
Add to the scenario that most employers will not consider job candidates who have been out of work for six months or more. Why? Most employers believe one of two reasons:
1) If you have been out of work for that long……something must be wrong with you.
2) Hmm…..how much “training” or “learning curve” while I have give you to start this new position? I need someone who can hit the ground running!
This thought process is very interesting considering that 6.2 million Americans, 45.1 percent of all unemployed workers have been jobless for more than six months.
The purpose of this article is to counter two mentioned myths. Lets concentrate on actions that you can take:
1) Create a schedule and stick to it. Example: Monday through Saturday; apply to positions from 6:00 am – 3:00pm. Gym 3:00 – 4:00pm. Networking Event/Happy Hour 5:00 – 7:00pm. Sticking to a schedule will keep your mind sharp and your emotions balanced.
2) Immediately take stock of your resume. Make sure the resume is updated and please refer to the blog, “Resume Advice from your Local Recruiter.”
3) Volunteer within your community at least 20 hours a week. It is imperative that you make the 20 hours count! You will need a work reference for your future employer.
4) Visit your local library and workforce service programs. Excellent way to sign up for free typing, data entry, Microsoft Office, and resume creating classes. Also, workforce service programs have the most up to date classes for in demand careers that may cost little, if nothing. Make sure you update your resume with any volunteer or degrees in which you are pursuing.
5) Network. If you are an expert in your area, contact former managers at other companies and asking them out to lunch. Let the manager discuss the current positions that need to be filled. Offer your services on a temporary basis and consult. This is a great way to learn about different companies within your field.
6) Keep your cell/home phone on and answer it. You may not recognize the number but answer it because it may be an employer calling about an interview J
The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the authors and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of Holland Turner Media Group, or any employee thereof. Holland Turner Media Group reserves the right to delete, edit, or alter content in any manner it sees fit or deems unacceptable.
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