Need Help Getting Back Into The Job Market?

If you’ve been out of work due to the pandemic, you’re not alone in your job search. As unemployment programs begin to wind down, many professionals are getting back out and looking for work. That means plenty of competition for the best jobs. There’s no time to waste in getting your career back on track after an absence. Below are six steps to help you get started on your re-entry into the workforce.

1. Refresh Your Marketing Materials (Resume, Cover Letter, LinkedIn)

Review and tidy up your resume, cover letter, and any social media accounts you use professionally. In today’s market, with the ability to change your resume and cover letter on the fly, consider both more of a template than a final document. Customize them for every job search. It will take a little more time but it’s worth the effort if it puts you at the front of the line as a candidate.

When updating your LinkedIn profile remember to examine your network. Do you need to clean up your network or reach out to friends of friends? Most people will accept a connect invitation, so don’t hesitate to ask. Also follow some of your favorite companies to know when they’re hiring and to get to know their culture a little better.

2. Check That Your Resume Is Accurate and Fitting

In most fields, you’ll only want to include information from the last ten to fifteen years. An old resume may have an objective at the top, which is not really favored by employers anymore. Companies know your objective is to get a job so instead, use that valuable top-of-the-page real estate to list your most relevant skills. It’s easy to customize this hot spot to each job. 

No matter what field you work in, there is specific terminology, and jargon insiders know. If you work in a skilled trade match your resume to the post. A human reader looking at similar terms would have the common sense to understand it’s the same skill.

3. Get The Word Out That You’re Job Hunting

Be brave, a killer resume may not be enough to get you an interview, you may have to take the phone into your own hands. Consider making calls to companies you are interested in. Don’t be shy about telling people you’re looking for work, you never know where an opportunity will turn up. It’s a no-brainer to tell your family and former work colleagues, but don’t be afraid to discuss your search more broadly. For example, if you casually mention to the Barista that you’re job searching when picking up your coffee, you might be surprised who they know. People stop for coffee on the way to work or even conduct business in the coffee shop. Another customer might be looking to fill a job.

4. Earn Certifications That Will Help You Stand Out

If you lack skills that are in demand in your industry, this is a great time to build them. In certain industries to drive a company vehicle you need a CDL license, taking a certification class to get your CDL could make all the difference in you or another applicant without one. Examine the requirements or “preferred” skills to see what companies are seeking, then acquire those skills for future opportunities. If you haven’t looked for a job in a while, your skills might be out of date. There’s no reason that you can’t get up to speed quickly with a little effort.

5. Use A Staffing Agency

If you want to get to work fast, one of your best options is through a staffing agency. They are great for job seekers as they do not charge a fee for their insight into the job market. Recruiters also keep you updated and provide feedback you are unlikely to get directly from an employer who may be more cautious about what they share. Staffing companies will tell you what to expect before the interview and can provide detailed information after. If you don’t get the job, they share the employer’s thoughts and suggest what you can improve to do better next time.

6. Start Your Search As Soon As Possible!

Don’t waste any time when it comes to starting your search. Right now, it’s a buyer’s market for candidates. There are more jobs right now than there are candidates looking for them, but the economy is cyclical and bound to change. If you want a shot at the best jobs, now is the time to get going.

If you are looking for a job, Blue Collar Specialist can help. We place talented people in HVAC, Utility Construction, and Trucking Industries.

Blue Collar Specialist can help you in your post-pandemic job search. Give us a call today.