Whether you’ve been furloughed, laid off, or even if you’ve managed to keep your job in economic uncertainty, it’s important to remember that nothing is the same as it was before – especially the job market. Now is the ideal time to prepare for the shifting job market, regardless of your circumstances.
As talent experts, we had front row seats to witness the job market shift from a candidate-driven market to one flooded with highly qualified talent. While many employers are hiring strategically even now, there are sure to be many new opportunities when the economy stabilizes. Position yourself to take advantage of the most desirable opportunities by taking steps to prepare now.
Update Your Professional Resume
In the excitement of changing positions or starting at a new company, it’s all too easy to forget to update your resume. And often people do not update their resume and LinkedIn profile until they start looking for a new role. But the reality is that you should update your resume after starting a new job, and you should keep it up to date with your achievements and most recent job description as you progress in your role.
- Ask yourself these eight questions to perfect your resume.
- Listing an “objective” at the top of your resume is passé. Instead, create or refine your professional statement or qualifications summary, either in first person or in bulleted format, so it highlights your skills, effectiveness, and character. Take this time to reflect and dig deep to find those key differentiators that make you unique and desirable. What professional expertise, personality attributes and values do you bring to the company and the specific role?
- Be detailed when describing your positive impacts and responsibilities. Remember that Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) search for keywords that indicate your level of qualification to do the job. These keywords are often used to filter out unqualified candidates as well as move forward candidates a hiring manager should consider first, so make sure you have included keywords relevant to the role and your expertise.
Account for a Gap in Employment
Career breaks have become more commonplace and are not the red flag they once were. Employers know the unemployment rate is high, and a gap in your career shouldn’t be a negative mark when you are being considered for a new position. If you are one of the millions adversely affected by unemployment or underemployment, indicate that you left your employer due to position elimination or furlough due to COVID-19
Take advantage of this time by learning new skills and earning certifications to build your qualifications and make yourself more marketable. There are many training sites and universities that are offering free or reduced-cost training and courses right now. You can turn your employment gap into a strength on your resume by listing professional training sessions you attended, certifications you earned, or other professional development efforts.
Update your LinkedIn profile
Supplement your resume with your LinkedIn profile and understand the difference between the two.
Start networking and connecting with old colleagues. Review your LinkedIn connections and start a conversation by asking them how they are surviving and thriving during this time. Ask your connections to write you a recommendation on LinkedIn. In many ways, now is the easiest time to develop connections and have meaningful conversations as we adapt to life with much less personal interaction.
HireBetter is here to support you.
If you find yourself in need of interview advice or another set of eyes on your resume as you prepare for the changing job market, please connect with me on LinkedIn – I’ll be happy to review your resume and LinkedIn profile and provide feedback!
No matter where you are in your career, it’s important to understand the shifting job market and prepare accordingly. With so many uncertainties in the world right now, you can never be sure when your next opportunity will arise. By staying informed on the changing job market and making necessary preparations with these tips, you’ll be set for success no matter what comes your way.
