HOW TO START A NEW CAREER
In today's world most people realize that jobs are not for
life anymore. People are more mobile and much more likely to
change jobs every few years and even careers a number of times
throughout their lives. And it is increasingly common that we
may also find that we need to change jobs because of retrenchments,
redundancies and closures. Having confidence in your skills
and experience and your ability to deal with the challenges
of starting over can give you a greater sense of confidence
about your career, and whatever life brings your way.
Get support. Surround yourself with family and friends
and let them know your situation. Stay in contact with those
you care about and continue your usual social activities. Although
you might not feel like it, now is not the time to avoid people
or stop socializing. Your support crew will help you to stay
motivated and positive and they’ll keep their eyes open for
opportunities for you.
It’s not about you. Jobs, not people, are made redundant. Redundancy is now a common term and accepted as a part of modern working life. It’s not a reflection on you or anything you need to feel ashamed about.
Set up a Home Office. Create an environment that it
conducive to your job-search project. Set up a basic office
at home that includes access to a phone, stationary, postage
supplies, computer and printer. If you have small children or
pets keep them out of this area and ask your children not to
answer the phone while you are job searching. If you are basing
yourself out of a job café or other facility, be prepared. Make
sure that you have the tools you need to apply for jobs that
appeal to you, including an up to date resume, referees and
an email address.
Create a current resume. Create a captivating covering
letter. Provide a detailed description of the achievements in
each of your roles and the time frame's you have been in the
role. Provide all contact details including phone number (land
line and mobile), email and where possible a fax number. If
you don’t have a fax, find a local business and use their fax
number (the fee is usually $1 to $2 a page).
Get out. Become involved in local networks and community events. Investigate groups that meet regularly in your area and get involved. This is a great way to meet new people, make new contacts and find out about jobs that are available close to home.
Mind your language. Avoid using negative words such
as "unemployed or I can’t find a job" and replace
them with positive words such as "I'll find a suitable
job suitable."
Stay well-focused. It only takes 10-seconds to make
a first impression. Make the most of your 10-seconds by smiling
when you greet someone. Invest in a good outfit to wear on your
interview(s) and ensure that your overall appearance is very
neat and well-groomed. Remember how important people’s first
impressions are.
Stay motivated. Finding a new job is hard work; treat
it as you would any work assignment – your full-time job is
finding a new role that you will enjoy. Just as with any job
it can be frustrating and especially disappointing when you
receive ‘rejection’ letters. Prepare yourself for the fact that
you will receive these. They are not personal. Focus on keeping
your goals in alive and remind yourself constantly that there
is a job or new career out there waiting for you and it’s only
a matter of time until you discover it.