The recent coronavirus pandemic has caused a wave of redundancies across many sectors in the country, and even though restrictions have lifted and we are learning to live with the virus, some people are learning to live with unemployment on top of this.
If you’re currently unemployed and worried that employers will turn you down due to a gap in employment, whether that be due to the pandemic or not, don’t panic, this blog will help you. Employers will also be very aware of the recent circumstances and if you fill the gaps with experience and skill development that will benefit you in your career, employers will more likely be sympathetic to the situation, and focus on what you can bring to the table.
In this blog, we will be discussing ten things you can do while job hunting to build on your skills and increase your marketability.
Take a Temporary Position
Even though the position may not be your dream role, 79% would recommend doing this, as the idea is to get people to see what you’re capable of doing and how you work. If you do a good job, the employer is more likely to give a good recommendation or hire you for a permanent position.
Take a Course
In a CareerBuilder survey, 61% of hiring managers recommended taking a course, or class, during a prolonged period of unemployment. You never stop learning throughout your career, so the more you know earlier the better. Taking your own initiative to learn and benefit your career outside of work, looks great to employers too.
Volunteer
When you do volunteer work, you are displaying to future employers who you are as a person. It shows that you care about helping others and that you have passions in your life.
Start your Own Business
Even though only 28% of employers within the survey suggested doing this, starting a business can show self-management skills and self-motivation. It may be time-consuming, but it’s a wonderful CV booster and a great way to learn transferable skills.
Start a Professional Blog
Whether you decide to write about your career or a personal passion you have, a blog is an excellent way to display yourself as an expert in a field. Especially if you’re writing about your career, potential employers will see the initiative you have taken during your job search.
Idea Generation
Whether you generate ideas for a marketing campaign, cost savings, or a new revenue stream, the candidates who show up to interviews with ideas and research that demonstrates they are knowledgeable and excited about the position will stand out from the crowd more.
Make Connections
A CV handed to the hiring manager from someone within the business is more likely to get noticed and be considered for the position available. Take the time of unemployment to build your career connections through social media and professional networking. Let your family and friends know that you’re job hunting and ask them for help finding connections in the industry, and individual companies, you are interested in.
Follow up
According to CareerBuilder, over 60% of workers said they don’t follow up with the employer after handing in their CV or submitting an application. It’s valuable to take that extra step to let the employer know that you are interested, and can be very polite to thank them for their time after an interview.
All these suggestions will help fill your time and develop your skills while searching for a job. If you are looking for a new job, check out our website and see how we can help you get instant access to the resources, training and skills you need to find your next position.
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