Guest Author - Gwendolyn Thompson
Unemployed job seekers endure greater challengers than do job seekers that are employed and conducting a job search. During high unemployment times the challenges can become overwhelming to say the least and more difficult to endure as time passes and long term unemployment sets in.
Due to the overwhelming response to job openings during high periods of unemployment, many companies will ignore applicants who are unemployed. They may even place a message such as “Unemployed Need Not Apply“ or “ Must Be Currently Employed” in the job ad that they have posted.
For the long term unemployed job seeker remaining positive is essential to a productive job search. Evaluate yourself and formulate a plan that will keep you current in your skills through networking, education or volunteering during periods of unemployment.
Unemployed job seekers can use networking as self employment and education or volunteering to fill in the unemployed gaps on a resume. You can also include any new skills you have learned. Be sure to mention any websites or contacts that you have on line.
Network and get an online presence for companies to find. Develop an online network with contacts. Target your industry and increase face to face contact with targeted companies even if they do not have job openings posted. Focus on the value that you will bring the company.
Conduct your job search as if it is your job. Create a schedule and follow it. Dress the part and take breaks or go to lunch. Create a job search monthly meeting and invite friends to talk about employment and jobs. Set up training at your local workforce agency and complete it.
Evaluate areas that you can change that will increase your chances for success. Refresh and practice interviewing skills. Check your references and make contact with them. Long term unemployed job seekers must run a focused job search and never give up.
