Getting Employed in Difficult Times: The True Motivation
While looking to be employed in difficult times, it can be easy to get frustrated and discouraged. In most cases, like during economic hardship, there are usually too many people chasing few vacancies, or people more qualified seeking the job you want.
The truth is, irrespective of how hard it may seem, YOU CAN get employed. All it requires is some extra effort.
Here are 7 tips to getting employed in difficult times:
#1. Have your CV and Cover Letter Reviewed
The primary objective of CV and cover letter is; to help you secure a job interview for an ultimate job appointment.
You would most likely not get a chance to be interviewed, not to mention getting employed if your CV is not attractive. Therefore, your CV should be up to date and your cover letter tailored to the specific role.
Consider having your CV reviewed by experts to ensure it gets through the Applicant Tracking System.
#2. Utilize Relevant Job Search Tools
Get updated with available and relevant job postings online, in newspapers, and on companies’ websites. You will be surprised by the positive result you will get if you implement the right job search strategies.
The earlier you find and apply for jobs, the more likely your CV will get a thorough read-through. Also, after sending in your applications, do well to follow up to reiterate your interest.
#3. Get Employability skills.
In your quest to get employed, you must grow skills that are essential to gaining and sustaining employment.
In this modern age, corporate companies don’t hire people considering only their academic qualifications. They also look at soft skills that are critical for the success of the job.
You should understand your career options, job roles, and responsibilities. Get a list of skills, knowledge, professional and personal qualities required by employers in your career path and hone them. They will help stand-out among others.
#4. Network
It’s a common saying that one needs to have networks to find a job; this is true in some cases. However, it doesn’t mean you necessarily have to know the hiring manager or someone that works with the company itself.
Start with people you know. Someone you know may know another who can help you. Do not look down on anyone. A food vendor you know can link you to his client in need of an employee. You can further grow a network full of helpful people by attending relevant events.
Most importantly, you should know that the power of networks comes from the depth of connection. A hundred million networks will do no good if you do not communicate effectively with them. When you meet new people, create connections with them through meaningful conversations. When you communicate your skills, qualifications, and job needs with them, they will get you in touch when they hear of a hiring opportunity.
The more meaningful connections you have, the better.
#5. Volunteer
Volunteering to do some works for others will not only give you skills and experiences that will make you more attractive to employers, but it may also introduce you to people representing organizations you want.
Your selfless work may get noticed by an employer, or the organizations you volunteer for could even decide to hire you.
#6. Always be Prepared for an interview
The mistake most job seekers make is that they wait for an interview invite before preparing. On the contrary, preparing ahead of the invite will boost your self-confidence and ease tension.
Be punctual and well dressed for an interview. Listen well, and ensure you understand the question before jumping to give a response.
Telling a concise story during a job interview is an excellent way to share your experience and skills. When answering a question, relay specific skills, and experience you have, and how you handled similar situations; this will boost your credibility.
Importantly, you should send a quick thank you note after a job interview. It’s a way to show appreciation and also to reiterate your interest.
#7. Never Give Up
Don’t stop applying for jobs because you aren’t receiving a positive response. Most job seekers get rejected by over 15 employers before landing a job. Learn from your mistakes and keep applying until you get the right job offer. You never know which opportunity will be fruitful, should you open yourself to it.
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