Jan 12
9
New Grad Job Network and The Right Outlook
No one wants to be unemployed, but it is the way you handle it that is going to make the biggest difference when looking for work. Now that you are one with college, you may not be able to find a job right away. Although this is discouraging, you need to carry yourself in a certain way to have the most success on your journey.
As a group, virtually everyone who is unemployed eventually becomes reemployed, but some do it quickly, while others struggle, give up or settle for poor positions. With the right effort many can win new jobs that are more attractive than what they had and in healthy industries.
Experience has shown that as time passes, the less capable you will be (both psychologically and emotionally) to do what must be done to win a new job. So, the key is to have a schedule of full activity: meetings, interviews, letter writing, phone calls, follow-ups and negotiations. For action oriented people, being unemployed simply means having the time to do a lot of the things that need to be done. On the other hand, if they aren’t active… many quickly get discouraged.
Here are some observations.
1—Get support from your employer. Many employers are concerned about their people and want to provide help.With respect to severance, corporations will sometimes extend fi nancial support or maintain benefi ts. Some fi rms will also extend outplacement counseling, if you think it would help.Make sure there is total agreement on the reason for your separation.
Work out an explanation that puts you in the best possible light. Once you have arranged for the best possible support, be prepared to explain why you are unemployed. You may be able to state that the termination was due to factors beyond anyone’s control, such as a cutback, merger or reorganization.
Where it applies, make the point that the fi nal separation was made at your initiative because you are a loyal person who gives 100 percent, and you did not want to look for a job while drawing a paycheck, or take a lesser position. And, be ready to provide references who will speak enthusiastically. Consider people you worked with, those who worked for you, customers, suppliers, or infl uential people in any part of the company.
2—Get your resumes created and build your knowledge. Review this book a number of times and really learn the content.
3—Get yourself a mentor and become “innovative.” It can be anyone you respect. You need to share your progress with that person throughout your campaign. Also set aside one hour each morning to make a list of leads, ideas, and people to contact. Look for breaking news about any industries of interest.