There is no arguing that there are many frustrations about looking for work. If you lack patience, like myself, that’s the hardest part. However, there can be some positives.
Ideally, networking is something we should do on a regular basis regardless of your employment status, but it can be hard to make it a priority. Now is the time to reenergize your network. There are many generous, professional people out there who are willing to stop and answer an email, LinkedIn message or even a phone call. If you are working and have this opportunity – take it. The good karma will come back to you.
Another benefit of looking for work, especially right now, is the plethora of training and webinars – many of them are free or very inexpensive. For example, you can visit the Learning section on LinkedIn, visit Coursera, watch your LinkedIn feed regularly, and follow organizations and top influencers that you find interesting. Or consider becoming an influencer yourself! Here is a list of the top voices that posted on LinkedIn in 2020.
A job search can be time-consuming, but this is a perfect time to take that class you’ve been wanting to sign up for – whether it’s career-related or not. Most colleges offer online classes. Many gyms and studios are offering virtual classes right now. Taking care of yourself is an important part of a successful job search.
Recent layoffs have created a large pool of candidates looking for employment – that means competition, but also a lot of top-notch colleagues who can share your job search experience with you. The comradery offers not just emotional support but also more sets of eyes focused on resources and job postings. Share this information liberally with each other and your job search net will widen. Many recruiters and organizations offer job search groups. You could also consider starting one yourself by reaching out to those on LinkedIn who have identified themselves as “open for work.” Facebook can be a useful resource for spreading the word as well. Remember, the more people that know you are looking, the higher the chance you will find out about that job opening – especially unposted ones. A search is a numbers game.
Utilizing organizations like the Association of Women Communicators or Public Relations Society of America during a job search goes without saying. There is a great benefit to being involved on both sides of the job fence – especially through a job search group that will nurture your network and strengthen your skills.
Additional job search tips:
- Sign up for job alerts on LinkedIn with consulting agencies (these can be both temporary and temp-to-hire) and on job sites for companies you are most interested in working for.
- Make a list of companies you would like to work for – watch their job listings and network with a communicator on their team to make a connection and find out more about the company.
- Post your writing samples. If you don’t have a website, consider a free service like clippings.me.
- Post or share an article at least once a week on your LinkedIn feed to keep yourself top of mind with colleagues.
Remember, be patient, positive, and persistent. The right job is out there!
About the Author
Hello! I’m Nancy Standifer. I recently landed a permanent Internal Communications role at Brooks Running. Their outdoor lifestyle suits me well since, when I’m not working, I like to be outside — hiking, biking, skiing etc. I’m a member of Women in Communications and actively involved in PRSA as well as a local group of Internal Communicators who meet quarterly to share industry best practices.
