Don’t let unemployment bring you down. Improve your chances of finding a new job.???
Numerous studies show that losing one’s job can have a profound effect on anyone. In fact, being out of work for more than six months does not only put a huge dent on a person’s financial capability, it can also compromise his ability to land a job in the near future and may even affect his general well-being as well.
Other Effects of Long-Term Unemployment
Most people believe that long-term unemployment is the most dreadful thing that can ever happen to any person. Mounting evidence shows that aside from the negative effects mentioned earlier, chronic unemployment can also result to serious emotional distress, poor physical and mental health and increased mortality rates. Worse, this situation can also hamper the educational progress of the children of those who were unemployed and lower their future earnings as a result.
Don’t Lose Hope
Despite the bleak scenario, you should never give up hope ? even if you have been unemployed for a considerable amount of time. While previous studies indicate that being out of work for more than 6 months can significantly lower your chances of landing a job, new research indicates that there are a lot of employers who are now more sympathetic to those who lost their jobs during the recession.
Studies also indicate that taking on a position that is lower than the one the candidate held before the recession does not affect the way most employers look at them.
Things to Do While Out of Work
While most employers may actually understand what you have gone through and are sympathetic to your plight, you need to prove that you have made the most of your time while you were out of work. You need to show that you have not lost your skills and have, in fact, been polishing them to make sure that you are ready for your next job from day one. Here are some things you need to do to escape the unemployment trap.
Take a temporary assignment. 79% of hiring managers recommend that you take on a temporary or contract assignment to show people what you are capable of doing. Do a great job and you can increase your chances of being recommended for a permanent position.
Do volunteer work. Research shows that undertaking volunteer work increases a person’s chances of landing a new job since it can help show potential employers who you are as a person. It also demonstrates your true character and integrity ? two qualities that most employers look for in an employee.
Expand your network. This is the perfect time to build and expand your network so go ahead and use social media to network with key influencers and key decision makers in the industry. Join in the conversation and share valuable insights on hot topics surrounding your industry. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family and professional contacts and ask for their help in finding connections.
