The job market is a tough place. Many of us have experienced periods of unemployment, some longer than others. For some, the period of unemployment can be a quick blip on the radar screen, while for others, it may be a longer, winding journey. This blog post will discuss the journey of going through six months of unemployment and the strategies one can employ to make the best of the situation. It is important to remember that a period of unemployment does not define us and by taking the necessary steps, we can emerge from this period better, stronger, and more resilient. With thoughtful analysis and honest reflection, we can utilize this period to our advantage, whether it be to further enhance our skills, search for a new opportunity, or simply step back and contemplate the next steps in our career.
What to do after being 6 months unemployed
Here are some pointers to help you maintain the right frame of mind when you are finally out of work:
What does long-term unemployment mean?
The causes of long-term unemployment are numerous, and they include social, individual, and economic circumstances. Anyone who loses a job can experience long-term unemployment, and it isn’t always related to a person’s qualifications.
There are two main categories of long-term unemployment:
Those two categories often relate strongly to one another. For example, when a recession occurs, cyclical unemployment often increases. If an unemployed person finds themselves out of work for a long time, they may also discover that they need to quickly pick up new skills. This situation induces structural unemployment.
How to get a job after long-term unemployment
Follow these steps to get a job after long-term unemployment:
1. Update your skills
It is critical to demonstrate to your potential employer that you are knowledgeable about current developments and trends in your industry. Spend some time learning new things by enrolling in online or in-person classes. You can also attend seminars or volunteer. Another fantastic way to keep up with the newest trends in your industry is to attend networking events. Utilize all of these chances to gain knowledge about your field and develop your skills.
2. Update your resume
Update your resume with your latest experience. Include any new credentials, degrees, or abilities you’ve attained since your last interview. Before applying for new positions, make sure your resume is completely updated.
3. Be flexible
Remember that you might not land in the same position you did before. For instance, even if they don’t match the job you had in mind, be sure to thoroughly review job descriptions. Always be willing to consider new opportunities when searching for a new job.
You might also want to think about businesses outside your city. This means that before creating a plan to land the job you really want, it might be necessary to relocate to a place with better employment opportunities and get a job there.
4. Spread the word
Tell everyone you know that you are seeking a new position. Spread the word among your professional network, friends and family. Additionally, you can share the news on social media or your social networking profile. Mention that you are seeking new opportunities, and briefly describe your qualifications. Dont hesitate to reach out directly to past co-workers. They might know about an opening in their network. Remember to keep an open mind to new possibilities when they tell you about it, as mentioned in step three.
5. Use job-search platforms
To find open positions you’re qualified for, use online job boards, regional job boards, and local employment agencies. Make appointments with recruiters to discuss your application. Increasing your exposure can improve your employment prospects.
6. Find an accountability partner
Being held accountable by someone can be especially useful while you’re looking for work. Being unemployed can be demoralizing, but having someone check in on your job search on a regular basis can encourage you to move forward. This accountability partner could be a friend who understands the stress of being unemployed, another unemployed person who can relate to that, or someone else. Together, you can organize your days and improve your research.
7. Consult social workers
Social workers can assist you in comprehending the underlying causes of the challenges you are encountering in your job search. You can search more efficiently and have more energy during interviews if your mind is clear.
Additionally, social workers can connect you with the resources you require. They can guide you through your application for unemployment benefits. This can help ease some of the stress associated with being jobless so you can concentrate on your job search. They can also connect you with job-search resources.
A specialist in this field can help you set new objectives and offer guidance on career or life transition opportunities. You are more likely to be successful in your job search if you have a clear goal and a strategy for achieving it.
8. Practice for the interview
Spend some time reviewing your resume, paying particular attention to the outcomes you achieved in previous positions. Work on articulating the value you brought to your previous employer and how this can benefit your new supervisor. Write down a few sentences that explain your absence for that time period if there is a gap in your resume. You might, for instance, share details about your personal endeavors, your family, or your experiences working for yourself. It’s important to convey to your interviewer that you were working on something during that time that has increased your value as an employee.
Investigate interview inquiries and responses relevant to the position you are applying for. By doing this, you can get a sense of what to expect during the interview and prepare your responses.
9. Ask for feedback
After an interview, you might think about calling the interviewer to get their thoughts if you don’t get the job. They can assist you in identifying the areas that require improvement. An interviewer can provide you with tips on how to succeed the next time you meet with an employer, whether it was due to a potential additional certification, how you conducted yourself, or something you said during the interview. Be sure to also state that you are seeking this knowledge in order to better yourself and that you respect their decision.
How I Survived a 6 Month Job Loss | Layoff | Unemployed | Furloughed | Downsized
FAQ
Is 6 months a long time to be unemployed?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, long-term unemployment is defined as being jobless for 27 weeks (six months) or longer and actively looking for work during the previous four weeks.
How long is too long for unemployed?
Being unemployed for nine months or more has drawbacks, and these drawbacks apply to both low- and medium-skilled positions. The study’s findings indicate that once you’ve been out of work for more than nine months, you can anticipate a significant decline in interview requests.
Is 6 months enough for a job?
A recent survey from The Muse found 80% of millennial and Gen Z jobseekers say it’s acceptable to leave a new job before six months if it doesn’t live up to your expectations
What to do if you have been unemployed for over a year?
- Update your resume and cover letter. …
- Develop new skills. …
- Check a variety of job boards. …
- Reach out to your network. …
- Request informational interviews. …
- Expand your search. …
- Attend professional events.
