How to Find a Job After Being Unemployed

Given today's struggling economy and the downsizing of companies, layoffs and pay cuts are serious possibilities for anyone.  Rather than falling into a state of frenzy for months, unemployed individuals must stay focused on finding a job in order to remain afloat.  This is especially true for those who have families and a mortgage to pay off.

Some people remain jobless for several months before they actually start to look for a job.  This causes a gap in one's employment history and gaps should be taken into consideration when writing resumes.  On the other hand, many people are easily motivated to begin job hunting and even consider changing careers.  The bottom line is that no one can afford to be jobless given the high cost of modern day living.  Below is a helpful guide on how to find a job after being unemployed for a few months or even a few years.

Creating a Purposeful Resume

If you were at your previous job for over five years, chances are you have forgotten what your resume looks like.  Here is your chance to give your resume another look and add in all your new accomplishments.  You can choose to do a chronological resume or a functional resume that focuses on your skills and achievements.  Those who have been unemployed over six months are encouraged to create a functional resume.

In either case, be sure to tailor your resume to every job you are applying for.  Be sure to highlight relevant skills, qualities and accomplishments.  Employers want to see what you have achieved throughout your career rather than just see a list of responsibilities.  For a functional resume, be sure to include a summary of qualifications, which acts like a sells point.

Keep in mind that the most impressive parts of your resume should sit towards the top.  Your resume is your chance to sell yourself to an employer and it requires a lot of thought and organization.

The Job Search

Once you have a strong resume, you must start looking for actual jobs.  Look through online job boards, newspaper classifieds and especially company websites.  If there is a specific company you like, go to their website and check to see if they are hiring.  You can always send a friendly email asking about a company's hiring plans.

For every job you apply for, be sure to tweak your resume to fit the needs of that job or company.  Always research the companies you are applying for and demonstrate a clear understanding of the company in a cover letter and during any interviews.

Most employers nowadays require a cover letter which is a starting point for your personal marketing campaign.  In other words, your cover letter should grab the employer’s attention and demonstrate how you are qualified for the job.  The employer wants to see what he will benefit from you. Be straight to the point, clear and aim to stand apart from other candidates.  Always focus on your accomplishments rather than your previous duties.

Preparing for Interviews

If you get called in for an interview, that means your cover letter and resume impressed the employer.  Once you go into the interview, you have one more chance to really sell yourself.

Prepare for the interview by reading about the company, writing a list of questions to ask, and practicing answers to common interview questions.  Interviewers generally ask about your strengths and weaknesses, what you can offer the company, why you are qualified and so on.  There are many online resources that provide helpful information on how to prepare for interviews.  Go in the day of an interview with a winning attitude and be confident.

Looking to Change Careers

If you have been unemployed and are seeking to change careers, this may be the best time to do so.  Determine the career path you want to take and immediately start preparing.  You may need to further your education, get more training and learn new skills.  If a career change is a realistic option for you, it may take some time.

Once you start looking for jobs for a new career, your resume must focus on transferable skills.  You may not be applying for the same job or even the same industry, but you can highlight all the skills you have developed from your previous job and how they can benefit the new company.

Gain New Skills to Stay Qualified

Your employment and unemployment history are going to follow you throughout your career.  If you have been unemployed for several months or even years, take the time to learn new skills.  Every industry evolves and adopts the trends and developments of modern times.

You need to evolve and further your knowledge in any industry you are searching for jobs.  When selling yourself to prospective employers, you must address the gaps in your employment history and demonstrate the steps you have taken to stay current.  Otherwise, you can easily be replaced by someone who is more qualified.

Being unemployed can be devastating and challenging, but it can also be a time to start fresh.  Take advantage of the time you have and look for something better or something that will give you a sense of fulfillment out of your career.  The earlier you start looking for jobs, the faster you can get your life back to normal.