Unemployed? How to tackle your job search:
This is the first article in a series of articles on being unemployed. You’re looking for work and not sure where to start. Or you’ve started the process but have stalled out and lost your motivation. Check out this list on what you should be doing to get back on track. 1. Update your resume. There are plenty of “do’s and don’ts” when it comes to resume writing, depending on who you talk to and what you read. Use common sense. Check out this article for some Resume tips & tricks. 2. Update LinkedIn to mirror your resume and call attention to your qualifications. Follow Melonie Dodaro on LinkedIn to get a wealth of information on what your profile should include and how to present yourself. 3. Clean up your social media accounts, knowing that prospective employers may use these to “get to know you better” when choosing who to interview or hire. 4. Create a target list of companies you want to work for. Get clear on why you want to work for these companies and what roles you’re interested in. Then start expanding your network to include individuals at these companies or in similar roles. Use LinkedIn as a resource to find the connections and relationships. DO NOT just ask to connect with them and leave it at that. Be purposeful. Write a personal message with an ask for help. Be genuine. Respect the process and act in a way that you want, if the tables were turned. 5. Prepare a “perfect job description” of what you’re looking for in your next role. Include as much information as possible in terms of what you do and don’t want. Industries, roles, companies, locations, job duties, etc. Use this as a guideline when reviewing job postings and measure the actual “fit” of the role to what you want. 6. Pick out your power outfit for interviews. It’s something you feel amazing in, where your confidence shines through and you’ll present your best self. 7. Read. Every day. Articles related to your industry, books of interest, anything that will increase your understanding and engagement. Check out this article for the 8 books you should be reading now. 8. Network prep. Reconnect with past colleagues on LinkedIn and see how they can help you and who they know. Then go meet them…. this means getting out of your housecoat and onto the streets. Let them know what you’re looking for, specifically, in your next job and how they can help. Ask them to do warm introductions with connections that could help you. 9. Create a daily routine. Get up, shower, get dressed, eat. Then start your job for the day… the job of looking for your next career. 10. Take charge of your career. You are in control over your destiny. Plan for it. Put your mind to it. Strategize. And set yourself up for success on your own terms. Not sure how to do this? Looking for some guidance? Email me and we can set up a time to talk about it. That’s right, I’m offering you a FREE SESSION where we can work on your career plans and break through any barriers you may be facing. Don’t wait. You’ve got everything to lose and even more to gain. Email me at je@judithethier.com and mention this article.