One of the worst feelings can be unemployment. For most of us this brings money worries and a feeling of inadequacy. It can damage our self-esteem, which makes getting work an even harder challenge. Depending on your circumstances, it can be a lonely and frustrating time, a time consumed with worry and concerns. Some people find it is a hole that is hard to climb out off. Here are some steps you can take to stop yourself from going stir-crazy while finding that job.
Stay Connected
It is so easy to lose contact with people in your industry. The world moves at such a speed now that changes happen in the blink of an eye and being away from your industry for a month or two can leave you outdated and old-school. By staying connected with those still in the driving seat you will learn of these changes and hear people’s opinions too. This can be very helpful when interviewing for a job. You can take other peoples experiences of the recent changes and form your own opinion that you can share. Let people know that you are still very much in the loop with the goings-on of your industry and make your opinion count.
It can also be these connections that will tell you of up and coming vacancies, or even put your name forward. If you are unconnected with these people they cannot recommend you. Make it clear to the people you meet you are looking for a job.
Update Your CV
Keep your CV fresh and
up-to-date while out of work. Make sure that you are using up-to-date and relevant industry lingo. Your CV is your first impression, so don’t let it get out of date and full of last year’s industry buzz words and key factors. Take note of what people are asking for in job postings and make sure that it is included in your CV. If it’s tired and outdated you will be put to the back of pile – something you can’t afford!
Make sure that any recruitment agency you are associated with has your most up to date CV on record. Any company that you have given a copy to, ensure they get the new copy. It’s a tough world out there and you may need to renew yourself several times to get noticed. So don’t be over looked because your CV is out of date.
Job Boards
Keep an eye on the job boards. See what people in your sector are looking for. This is a great place to see what movements are going on in your industry. You can pick up on some great information. You can see what qualifications are being looked for, what experience is needed and what they are looking for in a candidate. All these things you need to take into consideration when writing cover letters or updating you CV.
You might learn that you need to study a new qualification, or notice an increase in demand for your job role – all important info when looking for a new job. The key is to be informed of changes in the sector you want to work in. You can take a look at some of our Travel Jobs Here
Voluntary Work Experience
Most people will look for people with experience and will prefer recent experience over something you did many moons ago. This means that sometimes working for free to get good references and the experience you need is a must. There are so many benefits to this that you mustn’t overlook it. You will also meet people in the right sector and build relationships and impress people. You can make sure people love what you do and when you go knocking for a full time paid position they can look back at what you did and be confident to give you the job.
This also looks great on your CV – it shows you are willing to work and you have the experience they are asking for. So make sure if you lack the experience you go get it. Even if it means working for free.