The Department of Labor defines long-term unemployment as out of work 27 weeks or more. If you are one of these long-term unemployed people, let’s review the possible reasons:
You don’t have a plan.
Envision your dream job and work toward it. Work out what you need to do to get there and start a strategic plan to make it happen. You can make it come true; you just have to believe in yourself and be willing to work long and hard.- You’re not working your plan.
Conducting a job search is hard work. Your job is to find a job and this can easily involve over 30+ hours a week. Schedule your job-related activities daily and in relation to how you’re most likely to find the right job. For example statistics show that 75% of jobs are obtained through networking, therefore you should be spending 75% of your time networking. Do your computer work, like applying for jobs and research companies at night when your contacts are sleeping and conduct informational interviews during the day. - You’re not capitalizing on networking opportunities.
One of the main reasons you’re still unemployed in 2014 is that you are not networking effectively. This highlights the importance of making contacts, reconnecting with fellow professionals, colleagues, friends and family. The easiest way to request a networking meeting is to send an email such as:Dear ___,
I do hope this finds you doing well! I’m writing to you because I’m exploring new career options at this time, having recently left my position with XX. I’d be honored if I could sit down with you for a quick meeting, at your convenience, to get your advice and insights on what you see currently going on in the job market. I’m thinking of a 15-20 minute meeting. Can you please let me know what would be a good day and time for you?
Thanks so much for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
XXXXX
[Contact Info.]−Never tell people you’re looking for a job; tell them you’re exploring career options (less pressure on them)
−Never use the word help, replace it with advice. Not everyone likes to help, but everyone loves giving advice! - You’re not utilizing social media.
It has been said that if you don’t have a robust and complete LinkedIn profile, you are irrelevant. As recruiters come to rely on LinkedIn, this is not an option. If you have a Facebook page, make sure it reflects nothing your mother would be ashamed of. - You’re trying to go it on your own.
If you have been provided an outplacement program by your employer, use it. Working with a certified career coach will help immensely. There are myriad of additional resources for job seekers:
−Career Tools & Services
−Dislocated Workers: Rapid Response
−American Job Centers
−State Dislocated Worker Coordinators
−State Unemployment Benefits Offices
−Trade Act Programs: Workers
Be aware that the job of your dreams will not happen overnight. A successful career transition means to work steadily and patiently toward what you want to achieve making the most of every situation on the way and taking a lesson from every experience, be it positive or negative.
What’s been your experience in the job search?
Tom is the founder, President and CEO of Lifocus Inc. and Managing Partner of OI Partners in Warwick, RI.
Specialties include: Career Transitions: Taking the Next Step. Certified ICCI career coaching & development, certified executive coach. Mentoring, training & development.
► Exploring Career Options: What should I do? Finding work that’s worth it. Assessments
► Personal Branding & Online Identity Management: Differentiating yourself in the marketplace, leveraging social media
► Job Searching in a Competitive Market: Resumes, Cover Letters, Networking & Finding Jobs, Interviewing.
► Overcoming Barriers to Your Career Goals: Stress Reduction, Self Esteem, Anxiety, Depression.
twharton@oipartners.net – 401.884.7959 – Twitter @careercoachTW
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