These are some job-hunting strategies that will work for both mid-career workers and those who are not in the workforce.
Anyone who lost their job or business in the coronavirus pandemic is now unable to move forward.
Due to the high number of people searching for work, the competition for jobs is intense. The lack of income is putting a strain on families.
Mid-career professionals have unique challenges. They may also be trying to balance family responsibilities and trying to change careers after years of working in one field.
Shari Hiudt is one such person who takes stock of her career. Noteworthy Events is a Cincinnati-based event planning company that Shari Hiudt, a 36-year old mother of two, owns.
Hiudt stated that 2020 was “my biggest year” in reference to the company she founded six years ago. She was expecting to make $60,000 this year.
The coronavirus pandemic caused things to stop and events were postponed, or cancelled.
Hiudt stated, “My income is now null.”
She said, “It keeps my awake every night.” “I don’t know if it will work. I don’t know whether I will have to shut down.
According to Abby Kohut (also known as Absolutely Abby), here are eight strategies to help you get on your feet.
1. Look for companies that are looking to hire staff.
Kohut stated that if you see job openings for hiring managers, recruiters, or learning and developmental managers, it means that the company is planning on growing.
She stated, “Nobody will hire them if they’re not growing and healthy.”
“They are the first to leave when things get bad.”
2. Reinvent yourself
Kohut stated, “Many people are looking deeply into their souls and asking themselves, ‘Is that really what I want for the rest of my lifetime?'”
She encourages people to think outside of the box when looking for ways to make money.
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You could also pivot a business that you already own, such as Hiudt. She doesn’t have any events planned so she turned to yard signs and yard balloons.
Kohut advised that while you need to make changes to increase revenue, your business should still look like it does to clients.
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Kohut is adapting, in fact, because the recruitment business is slow. Her new venture, Persistent Prenuers is where she interviews entrepreneurs who are successful on camera.
3. Learn how to interview online
Video interviews were a part of job search process even before the pandemic. They are now more common.
This means you need to have good lighting and a background. Kohut suggested that you find a quiet spot with no pets or people and dress as if you were going to an interview in person.
4. Write a cover letter
There are so many people out there looking for work. You need to be different. According to Kohut, the best way to do this is to write a cover letter.
Don’t make it generic. Make it relevant to the job. Name the hiring manager and tell why you are interested in working at this company.
You must believe you are a great candidate. It is important to communicate that belief to your company.
Abby Kohut
CAREER COACH AND RETUITER
5. Virtually every network
Although meetings over coffee or in-person networking events don’t exist in this age of social distancing there are still many ways to network.
Many groups meet on Zoom and other online meeting sites. You can search for local job networking groups. Check with your church ministry to find out if they have job clubs. They also meet online.
You shouldn’t be afraid to make connections. Kohut stated that this is how you can get a job.
6. Volunteer
Reach out to your network of people working in companies and ask if they would be willing to help you with some projects. You might get hired if you do a great job.
It is possible to do virtual volunteering work for a non profit. This can build your network, help you fill in gaps on your resume and help you do something for those in need.
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7. A new skill can be learned
To learn a new skill, there are many online classes that you can take. A certificate can be purchased by paying for the classes.
It will not only help you learn new things, but it will also improve your resume.
8. Find a job search buddy
You can team up with someone looking for a job similar to yours. You will have someone to talk to every day and help keep you on track.
Confidence in yourself is key to landing a job.
Kohut stated, “You must believe you are an amazing candidate.”
“You must be able tell the company that you are interested in this job and also explain why to them.”
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