(Photo by Marten Newhal on Unsplash)

Permission to Grieve...but not forever

Job loss is significant. Grief is natural and necessary. Acknowledge the loss yet know this is a setback, not a permanent derailment of your value, your dreams, or your future. This too shall pass.  

Recognize you may not be able to return to your former position for some time. This can feel overwhelming. It may be the opportunity to start down new paths, too.

Positive Steps you can Take

Identify your marketable skills. Make a list. Take an assessment if you struggle to understand how your skills translate into jobs in today’s marketplace. Focus on how well your skills align to open positions, rather than position titles.

Need more skills? The time to learn them is now, while you are waiting and searching. Pursue the certifications, learning paths, or degrees that you want or need for your next job.

Perfect that Pitch

Know your value and what you want in a job. Connect your skills, experience, and education to the way you use those to impact an organization.  

Try formulating a power pitch:  

I help [people/companies] by [what I do best at/am passionate about/have proven skills in] so that they can [improve/change/grow, etc.]. I am looking for [define your next career move - be brief but specific].

Prepare to Deliver the Pitch

Be able to verbalize your Pitch in any situation. Practice, Practice, Practice.  

Practice your Pitch with a friend or former coworker until you can weave it into conversations and feel confident sharing it in any environment.

Record yourself delivering the Pitch on video. Watching this video will help you learn to deliver your Pitch in a relaxed, authentic manner. If you are feeling brave, share the video and ask for feedback from trusted friends or associates.

Create Resumes that match Positions

That is right, resumes, plural.

Your resume is a living organism that should be changed to suit the job you are pursuing.

Align each resume to the job posting you have chosen. Summary and accomplishment statements, skills, keywords, and active verbs should align with (but not plagiarize) the description and qualifications of the position you want.

Of course, do not lie, always check your spelling and punctuation, and make sure the contact information is professional and correct.

Share

Create and share your resume, profile, skills, experience, education, and your perfect pitch on appropriate Social Media platforms like Linked In. Share your pitch at in-person events and with family, friends, former coworkers. The more people who know your skills and the position you are in the market for, the better your chance of landing the job.

Lead with a serve. Do not forget to share what you have been learning with others who need help. Serve others and it will come back to you!

Interview Tips

Prepare for success. Know the company - its mission, vision, values, and culture. Know the job and how your skills and experience align with what they are looking for. Know yourself and confidently prove you are the best candidate for the position.

For virtual platforms or video interviews:

• Secure a quiet, clean location if you can. If your family is nearby, alert them to the interview times and ask for quiet if possible.
• Test your technology before the interview. Make sure you download any necessary apps. And that they work on your device. Alert the interviewer as soon as possible if you hit a glitch.
• Test your lighting and the camera angle to ensure the interviewer can easily see your face and shoulders. If possible, use a laptop or tablet for the best experience. Use your phone if you must.
• Sit still and upright. Smile. Relax.

Guest Bloger:
Tracy Trimblett
Employment and Training Specialist
Christian HELP Employment and Resource Center