Compared to job hunting while employed, job hunting while unemployed can be a challenging experience. However, there are some things you can do to help yourself if you ever find yourself in that situation.
For one, you can take advantage of some activities that can properly position you for your next role. One of them is practicing for interviews and how to explain the gaps in your career, if any.
Another is to attend online courses that can expand your skill set and participate in professional networks.
Highlighted below are more of the steps you can take.
Don’t hide your unemployment status
According to career advisers, you don’t need to hide your unemployment from a potential employer. Be honest about your gaps in employment. It could have been out of your control, such as losing your job due to budget cuts or organizational restructuring.
However, if you were fired due to poor performance, you need to think about how you want to discuss that.
Employers have improved their tolerance for applicants who have lost their jobs in recent years. Hiring managers aren’t likely to look down on applicants who are out of work right now, either because of the pandemic or the economy, which has contributed to widespread layoffs.
If you were fired from a position due to performance or other issues, think about what to say.
Some job seekers may have stopped working for personal reasons, such as having children. If that’s your situation, you need to create a narrative for why your time was taken away as you prepare to re-enter the workforce. Before the interview, you should explain why you took a break, how you spent your time, and what new skills you learned. Hiring managers sometimes find it admirable that the candidate takes a risk and spends intentional time developing themselves.
Develop your skill set
Use your spare time to expand your skill set so you can show initiative to a potential employer. Employers should note your development, regardless of your unemployment status. Even employment can’t fully reveal your professionalism, but the way you make the most of a season of unemployment can. Have you taken courses, networked, or consulted a career coach?
You can strive to learn about a variety of topics, from cultural competency to leading emotional intelligence through courses like those provided by LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, and other online platforms. Each course you have successfully completed can be placed on your profile and resume, demonstrating your desire to go further.
Focus on networking
Make networking a part-time job by taking advantage of connecting with other professionals in related fields while using online courses.
Lean on your networks and get in touch with them to catch up if you know someone who works for the company or professional group that interests you. LinkedIn is a good resource for finding out which members of your network are connected to potential employers.
Involve former co-workers, describe the roles you’re looking for, and ask directly about openings that interest you.
Building your network will help you locate new job openings and produce better results than sending out resumes. The more eyes you make, the more people will be aware of your interests and abilities. You can even try asking former coworkers if they would be willing to recommend you on LinkedIn as an added bonus.
…Three actions you should take to get another job if you are fired Read more in… Naijaonpoint.