Here are six tips for improving your chances for re-employment:
1. Don't waste time. It's worth leaving your vacation for later. Those who are recently unemployed or still employed are in the best position to job hunt. If you have six months' notice without a work obligation, use the notice period to systematically search for a job or to train. If you have a work obligation, take advantage of all possible employment leaves to look for a new job or to train.
2. Identify your strengths. A long work history and life experience are your advantages. Think about what kind of tasks you want – or no longer want. Both pieces of information are important when you start seeking re-employment. If you are not sure about your goals, a conversation with a career coach can help clarify your thoughts. Find out if you can get free career coaching through transition security or your own employment area. You can get to know the career coaches at the Rastor Institute here.
3. Get trained. Under certain conditions, the law guarantees that you can receive a supplementary training package worth two months of your gross salary to either update your own skills or expand them into a completely new field. In our experience, those who are in training or have just completed training do much better than others when competing for the attention of employers. Training can also take you into a completely new field.
4. Ensure your own resilience. Job hunting can be mentally taxing. Even the most persistent job seeker will get exhausted or lose faith if they repeatedly receive an email saying they were not selected. Don't face it alone—seek support from a group. The Rastor Institute offers its clients webinars related to job hunting, peer support and, as a new feature, the Job Seeker's Mental Well-Being Course. You can become a client of the Rastor Institute by joining our applicant network.
5. Activate your network and find hidden jobs. This is the most important—and most difficult—point on your to-do list. Do you know any former colleagues, partners or other industry players who are interested in your freed-up skills? If not, now is the time to network. Your own networks are the fastest way to find employment. Participate in events, join industry discussions or take advantage of the free coaching and tip workshops offered by the Rastor Institute for finding hidden jobs.
6. Take advantage of recruiting training. They offer companies the opportunity to get to know your skills in practice and a route for you to a hidden job. In addition, they complement your skills and remove a gap in your resume. And best of all, recruiting training erases the period of unemployment that appears on your resume. Learn more about the Rastor Institute's open recruiting trainings.
Marjo Heijari is Recruitment Consultant at Rastor Institute.