Is There Life After Layoff?

Job Seekers are Encouraged to Take a Proactive Approach and Update Their Resume.

In today’s economic condition, companies are struggling to keep their doors open and employees on the payroll. Many have had to cut costs by downsizing their labor force through layoffs. This leaves many long-term employees shocked and unprepared for a job search.

Unemployment under the best of circumstances stirs up emotions – anger, fear, depression and stress to name a few. With an unemployment rate hovering around 7%, a proactive approach where the job seekers connects with others, considers options and customizes content will help open doors faster.

Connect –
Using social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter) and in-person meetings to network and connect with other people. LinkedIn has become a very effective and powerful networking tool so make sure your profile is engaging, demonstrates the value you offer an employer (how have you made a difference?) AND includes a professional picture. (Your profile is 9 times more likely to be viewed if you have a photo. Please make sure it doesn’t include the family, pets, beach scenery, alcohol or other unprofessional imagery.

Consider –
Launching a multi-approach job search. People have adopted the passive approach to job seeking. Post your resume on a job board and voila your phone will ring. Rather than relying on job boards, a multi-approach job search includes visiting the company’s web site and applying directly through their employment or career opportunities link, participating in job fairs, using a recruiter or placement firm and temping.

Enlisting the help of a professional resume writer. Today’s job market is technology-driven and extremely competitive. If you haven’t had the need for a resume in a while, a professional resume writer can help you hit the ground running by showcasing the value you offer an employer, including the right keywords and using visual elements to help get you noticed.

Customize –
General, one-size fits all resumes are a thing of the past and using a generic template is no-no. Your resume needs to target the needs of the employer by focusing on what you can do rather than what you want –

Objective (Old) Style – To use my academic training and professional experience in a fast-paced company that will offer opportunities for advancement and growth.

Employer Targeted Opening – Rich history of connecting with people, driving projects forward and achieving sustainable results. Inspire teams through one-on-one mentoring and group training programs that address inefficiencies, bolster understanding and increase productivity. Foster long-term internal and external business relationships.

Help the reader understand what you want to do and then align your skills and abilities with the needs of the career field you have chosen. Don’t be afraid to market your skills and be sure to quantify your achievements through numbers!

Moving Forward
Engaging in a job search by choice or necessity can be challenging but, with a resume that is keyword-rich and laser-focused, job seekers can gain more control of the situation. If you would like more information on how to develop a job search strategy, “Life After Layoff: Guide to Making a Successful Transition” can help.

Ready to get started? Breakthrough Resume Writing Service is a virtual (online) business that offers assistance to people from around the globe. From the privacy of your own home, you can contact Tammy at awordpro@aol.com.

About the Author:
Tammy Shoup, Executive Director and Head Writer of Breakthrough Résumés, is among a small number of professional résumé writers in the U.S. who has earned the title of Certified Professional Résumé Writer from the Professional Association of Résumé Writers / Career Coaches.