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How To Create An Effective Resume Even If You Were Fired

How can you make an effective resume after getting fired? People get fired from their job for various reasons. However, to a potential new employer, it may leave an unfavorable connotation on the candidate.

If you find yourself in such a situation, you may have a number of questions concerning how to address the adverse reactions you may receive from a potential employer. You may have questions such as:

How do I impress an employer given I was fired from my last job?
Do I include the job on my resume?
How should I answer when asked the reason for departing my previous job?

Understandably, there are many questions on your mind. And yet, there are ways to be truthful in answering the questions your potential new employer may have for you, along with tips to make such a situation feel a little less threatening. Essentially, before updating your resume for the next job opportunity, think about:

Is The Experience From Your Last Position Relevant?

If there is little to no relevance between the positions, you do not have to showcase it on your resume. The hiring company is primarily interested in relevant experience and skills you can bring to their company. You might be able to break your resume into "Relevant Experience" and "Additional Experience" sections.

How Long Were You In The Position?

If you were in the position for only a few months, it may not be necessary to mention it on your resume. Determine if the employment gap, should you choose not to include it, would be cause for concern by an employer. In today's market, it's not a surprise to see some candidates unemployed for a year before finding a new job.

How Severe Was The Cause For Firing?

Were you laid off or fired due to lack of performance or conditions outside of your control? If the latter, then you should put on the resume the reason such as âMajor Downsizing," âCompany Relocated," or âManagement Reorganization," all of which indicate that the termination was not due to your performance. If the reason you were terminated was due to a minor issue that can be easily explained and seen from your point of view by a potential employer, than including the position on your resume should not be a concern. Be honest with yourself and think through your response to a potential interviewer.

Your answers to the questions above will tell you whether it is appropriate to include the job on your resume. If it is included, consider the following to help you through the application and interview process.

1. Showcase Your Achievements And Accomplishments

Woman on laptop writes a resume after being fired

Your mission is to get your foot in the door for an interview and to make an outstanding impression. You do not need to bring up that you were fired or laid off from your last job on paper, especially if you were only there for a year or two. Instead of focusing on how your previous job ended, quantify what you accomplished while you were employed there.

If necessary, you will have the opportunity during an interview to explain further details.

2. Don't Insult Your Past Employer

Man on laptop edits his resume after getting fired

Even if you were fired and have bitter feelings toward your former boss or co-workers, your resume is not the time nor the place to reveal it. It is seen as unprofessional and leads to questions that focus on negative aspects.

So, even if the interviewer wasn't planning on asking you the reason for leaving, you may have just brought it upon yourself by insulting your past employer or hinting at a conflict there on your resume.

3. Don't Lie About Your Employment

Woman on laptop struggles to write her resume after being fired

You should never lie on your resume. Don't fabricate anything on your resume or your reason for looking for a new job. If asked about this during an interview, you need to address the question truthfully, but keep it brief regarding the reason for your departure and move on to more positive points. At least you now have your foot in the door and have a greater advantage of explaining the reason for departure in a more positive light.

You can also use it to your advantage to reinforce points of achievements and accomplishments that may apply to the job. Remember that companies do check references and background information. Any candidate caught lying is grounds for dismissal.

4. Pull Together Your References

Man on laptop pulls together his references after getting fired

Gather people you worked with on the job as references, whether it's co-workers, clients, or vendors. Individuals who worked with you on the job and who can speak positively about your work can help effectively rid any negative connotations associated with being fired.

In this instance, it makes sense to include references with your resume, especially written recommendations.

5. Focus On Functionality Rather Than Chronology

This is a last resort option. Functional resumes typically are not used since it lacks detail on dates of employmentâinformation most employers want to know.

A functional resume focuses on grouping specific skills and experiences together as the highlight of the resume. This type of format might also work for the career changer and those with gaps in employment history that are due to other pursuits, such as education or family.

This is the last resort, though. We recommend using a chronological resume format, even if you got fired. But it might be worth it to try a functional resume format if the chronological format isn't working for you.

Being fired means you have an additional hurdle to overcome to find a new job, but it is not insurmountable. It's all in the way you frame it on your resume and handle yourself in addressing the matter if the subject comes up. Remain positive, address any concerns succinctly and honestly, and then move on to the more positive highlights.

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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How To Create An Effective Resume Even …

Sometimes businesses are forced to restructure and cut staff. We've seen this during the COVID-19 crisis, but it can happen at any point of time.

While sometimes unavoidable, the decision to layoff employees can be one of the toughest decisions a company has to make. These are never easy conversations to have, but it's possible to show both commitment and compassion to impacted employees.

"How?" you ask. By providing them with outplacement services.

Providing outplacement services is an essential step that benefits the impacted employee and the business! Here's why...

1. It Helps Employees Take The Next Step

Getting laid off is a gut punch and one of the first questions an impacted employee asks is, "What do I do now?" As an employer, you can't answer that question. But one thing you can do is give the employee the resources to help them answer that question.

Outplacement services typically help people with resumes, LinkedIn profiles, cover letters, and job search and networking strategies. These services are particularly beneficial to those impacted employees who have been with the company for a long time. A lot has changed in the job search game, and these employees have a lot of catching up to do.

Nothing is ever guaranteed, but studies have shown that people who receive outplacement services get hired two times faster than those who don't. Providing these services shows the impacted employees that, even though you are laying them off, you still care about their professional futures.

Being unemployed is tough, but employers can make it easier by helping their former employees get the resources they need to help them move through the stages of career grief faster and get their job search going in the right direction.

2. It Will Help Morale At The Company

When a company goes through layoffs, thoughts are naturally with the impacted employees. However, layoffs impact the entire company.

The workforce just lost trusted colleagues and friends. In addition, some people are about to see their job responsibilities change as a result of the layoffs.

The workforce is shaken, perhaps even scared about their own futures at the company, and some will have survivor's guilt.

Many of the remaining employees will talk with those who are laid off. If the company showed compassion and offered outplacement services to those impacted employees, this will get communicated to the current workforce.

While it doesn't make the situation any easier, the fact the company did what it could to help the impacted employees can slightly improve the morale of the remaining workforce.

Another thing the company can do to ease the concerns of its workforce after a layoff is to over-communicate. Be as transparent as possible and give them what information you can about the decision and the future of the company.

In order to rally the remaining workforce and move the company forward, these employees need to know the vital role they play in helping the company achieve its goals. These employees need to feel a part of a team.

All of this plays a huge role in the company keeping the trust and respect of their employees.

3. It Reflects Well On The Company

The company's employer brand and reputation are two things that may get put on the back burner when a business goes through tough financial times. But, eventually, these things will matter again, and the way the company navigates a crisis or restructuring will impact its reputation.

Just because a company lays off employees, doesn't make it a bad business. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic has thrown numerous businesses for a loop, but even in normal conditions, businesses have to make adjustments in staffing based on a number of ever-changing factors.

Ultimately, it's the way the business handles the layoffs that will impact its reputation.

Employees who feel that they were mistreated or shown a lack of compassion during the layoff process will post a review on job review sites like Glassdoor and Indeed.

Job seekers use these sites to research your company's employee experience, and negative reviews about employees not being treated well during layoffs could cost the company talent in the future.

Giving outplacement will lessen the odds of a former employee writing a negative review about the company. It may even lead to some positive reviews.

Being able to say you made sure every single person got one-on-one job search coaching will show just how much you care for your employees and will reflect well on the company's reputation.

How To Get Outplacement Services

Cost has always been a point of contention for companies considering whether or not to use outplacement services. However, over the last few years technology has made outplacement services more efficientâand cheaper.

Many essential outplacement services such as resume reviews, LinkedIn and cover letter advice, and professional networking are now built into virtual platforms that eliminate the need for in-person services.

And the good news is, Work It Daily is one of them!

Learn more about Work It Daily's outplacement services and give impacted employees a fighting chance to find work faster in this competitive job market.

For pricing inquiries, please contact [email protected].

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3 Benefits Of Outplacement Services

When a recession hits, many people immediately begin to worry about their jobsâand with good reason. Recessions usually mean mass layoffs, fewer jobs, more competition for jobs, and less job security. But some careers are safer than others.

Several websites, including Glassdoor, have compiled lists of jobs that are expected to survive the next economic downturn. Every list is a little different, but there are some professions that consistently show up. Here are five of those careers.

Keep in mind the term "recession-proof" is relative. A recession impacts everyone differently, so nothing is ever 100% foolproof.

1. Medical/Healthcare Providers

This category includes a wide range of jobs: doctors, mental health professionals, home healthcare services, registered nurses, and physical and occupational therapists, to name a few.

The bottom line: No matter the economy, people get sick or injured and need care!

These jobs usually offer competitive salaries and, with the growth of the healthcare industry and many experienced professionals retiring, these fields are always looking for new and young talent.

2. Teachers/College Professors

Teacher shows her students how to work on a computer

The need for education is also something that never stops, regardless of the state of the economy.

Job growth for teachers typically remains steady as districts are usually faced with the retirements of experienced teachers each year. In addition, if enrollment levels remain steady or increase on a yearly basis, cutting teachers would likely impact the quality of education. Many teachers are also tied to labor unions.

College professors, particularly ones with academic tenure, are also very secure in their positions as college enrollments remain somewhat consistent during a recession.

3. Funeral Home Director

This may be morbid but death is the ultimate recession-proof business!

The funeral home director position may not be in demand but the need is constant. It's consistent work that's not impacted by the economy or any other seasonal factor.

Of course, it goes without saying, the job does have its drawbacks.

4. Utility Workers

Keeping up with public infrastructure projects is a never-ending battle and while communities may try to cut some costs during a recession, taking care of roads, electricity, sewage, trash, and water are essential services that communities can't afford to skimp on.

In addition, in recent years many utilities have experienced labor shortages, so there are usually many positions available for those looking for a job or career change.

5. Accountant

Benjamin Franklin famously said the only certain things in life are death and taxes.

We already touched on death, so now it's time to touch on taxes. While accountants are particularly valuable during tax season, their services are needed year round.

Whether you're a business owner or just an everyday person, dealing with numbers and financial records can be tricky. And, during a recession, the need for assistance with finances is great.

Many believe a recession is imminent and it could very well impact your career. Now is the time to prepare!

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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5 “Recession-Proof” Careers

How To Apply For A Job You’re Not 100% Qualified For

One of the biggest job search struggles is figuring out which jobs you should apply for. You have to look at the job description, the skill requirements, and the overall qualifications for the job, and then determine whether it's a viable employment opportunity for you or not.

It's often more difficult discerning which jobs you're qualified for (the ones you really have a shot at) than you think. So, how do you know if you're actually qualified for a job or not? Should you apply for jobs you're not 100% qualified for?

The short answer: Yes, you absolutely should.

Here's how to apply for a job when you're lacking some of the qualifications.

1. Use The 90% Rule

The first step to applying for a job you're not sure you are qualified for is determining whether you're qualified enough. This is where the 90% rule comes into play.

After studying the job description, the list of qualifications, and the skill requirements, you should have a good idea of what the employment opportunity entails. Now, after looking at your resume, do you think you're qualified? If you have 90% of the skill requirements, you are qualified for that job and should apply for it.

When you apply for a job, it's always important to include all relevant skill sets, experience, and keywords on your resume, so it gets past the applicant tracking system (ATS). This is especially true when you only have 90% of the qualifications, since leaving out just one skill could prevent your resume from ever landing in the hands of the hiring manager.

Customize your resume for every job you apply for to avoid this mistake. This way, it'll make it easy for employers to see that you do have most of the qualifications and skill requirements for the position. Remember: 90% is the magic number. Any less, and you'd be wasting your time if you apply.

2. Close The Experience Gap

In order to close your experience gap, you need to offer the employer something else they won't find in most job candidatesâand that's excitement for the job opportunity.

What you lack in experience you can make up with a common connection. Convey to the potential employer your enthusiasm and excitement for the company's products, services, or mission. Explain what you respect and admire about the company. Even if you don't have some of the experience and qualifications the employer is looking for, you have the internal motivation and desire to work for their company.

In addition, this connection shows that you would be a great cultural fit within the company. Whatever skills you don't have, they can probably teach you. But employers know you can't teach cultural fit. This is where you would stand out among other candidates for the position.

A great way to establish that connection with an employer is to write a disruptive cover letter. Tell your story, convey your excitement, and land that interview!

3. Network Your Way Into The Company

Here at Work It Daily, we believe your network is your net worth. And the statistics agree. Over 80% of jobs are gotten via referral. So, receiving a job offer usually comes down to who you know.

If you're not 100% qualified for a job, your networking skills will play a big role in your ability to get an interview. Use your network to get introduced to someone who works at the company. Begin by reaching out to current employees of the company or friends who might happen to work there, and ask what it would take to stand out and get hired. Note: you're not asking for the job. You're just asking for more information.

This strategy is extremely effective at opening doors with potential employers and getting your resume in the right hands.

When you have most of the qualifications and a great connection story explaining why you're passionate about a company, networking is the perfect final step. Next time you're debating whether to apply for a job or not, remember the 90% rule. Employers know there's no such thing as the perfect job candidate. But with these steps, you can be a great one.

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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How To Apply For A Job You’re …

Are you in the process of searching for a new job but can't seem to get the callbacks you want? You could be making some big job search mistakes.

Don't worry, though! We can help you identify what you're doing wrong in your job search, and teach you how to fix it. Here are seven common mistakes job seekers make:

1. The Aimless Search

If you're sending out resumes without knowing what your ideal job is, you're wasting your valuable time. So, before shipping off another application, be sure to sit down and define what type of job you're looking for. Try to make an interview bucket list. This way, you'll have a more focused search and can create a customized resume to match.

2. Bad Interviewing Habits

Woman answers a question during a job interview

Do you have bad interviewing habits? In other words, do you assume you're on a first-name basis with interviewers? Or do you slouch in your seat? If so, be sure to learn about appropriate body language and ways to address interviews so that you can always come across as a confident candidate with plenty to offer.

3. Bad-Mouthing A Previous Employer

Many interviewees get stuck with the question, "Why did you leave your previous employer?" While you may want to say that your previous boss was a jerk, this is not the time or place to mention it. So, if you're asked this question, just say you are looking for new opportunities that align with your career goals.

4. Not Attending Job Fairs

While job fairs may feel like impersonal functions for individuals who are desperate for work, nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, some great networking opportunities can be found at job fairs, not just with company representatives but with other job fair attendees.

5. Wearing Unprofessional Attire

Man dresses casually for a job interview

When interviewing, company representatives are watching your every move, including how you're dressed. If your attire is too casual, sexy, or plain outrageous, your amazing resume or interviewing skills may do little to get you hired.

6. Forgetting To Follow Up

Woman on laptop follows up after a job interview

Another mistake to avoid is not following up with an employer after your interview. To make sure you remain on the employer's mind, send a follow-up email of about three or four paragraphs that summarizes your skills, reiterates your eagerness to be hired, and thanks the entire staff for their time.

7. Sending An Ultra-Long Resume

Hiring manager reviews a job applicant's resume

Although your professional history may be so amazing that you want to share every piece of it, it's important that you avoid creating a resume that stretches out too long. By focusing on related positions and highlighting the top moments in your career, you can easily reduce your resume to two or three pages.

As you can see, there are a lot of ways to make mistakes when conducting your job search. The good news is that these mistakes are avoidable if you are aware of them. By following the tips above, you'll find job search success in no time!

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7 Mistakes Job Seekers Make

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Career AMA (Ask Me Anything!)

8 Mistakes Companies Make During Layoffs

I read this article by Forbes magazine on the subject of delivering bad news and realized just how many companies fail to follow the steps outlined when they lay people off. I honestly believe the majority of corporations and management teams donât mean to do this incorrectlyâthey just havenât been trained in what it takes to effectively communicate whatâs happening. The result is an angry, vocal group of ex-staff members and a concerned set of clients who wonder if they should look for a new vendor.

Here are the most common mistakes companies make during layoffs:

1. Blindside Staff

I once worked at a start-up company that, unbeknown to the staff, was running out of funds. So, one day we walked in and saw at 10:00 a.m. a large group of people got up from their desks and went to the cafeteria for a meeting. The other large group got up and went to the conference room. Each had been sent an email on where to go. When they got to their respective meetings, the cafeteria group was told they were all being let go and to get their things, head home, and the company would be in touch with final pay. The other group was held hostage in the conference room and told they had to stay there until the layoff was complete. Needless to say, the fallout from that experience was significant.

2. Delaying The Inevitable

Woman looks at list of people she needs to lay off

Iâm working with a woman right now whose company announced a layoff five months ago after they were bought out and merged with a larger firm. Absolutely nothing has happened since. She says the staff morale is at an all-time low. People feel paralyzed. They donât want to look for a new job if they donât have to, but they also donât want to walk in one day and find out itâs over. Productivity is down and stress-related illness is up from the fear of the unknown.

3. Covering Up The Truth

Managers talk about layoffs in a work meeting

I have a friend who worked for a larger privately held company. One day he walked in and learned the company was âcutting expensesâ and laid off 20% of the staff. At the time he thought he was lucky because he kept his job. A month later, news came out that the owner of the company was going through a messy divorce due to cheating on his wife and had been using company funds to support his mistress. The layoffs were a way to save money so he could pay himself more to cover the alimony payments while still maintaining his current lifestyle. My friend found a new job, along with several of his colleagues who couldnât stomach working for the owner after that.

4. No Justifiable Explanation

Woman talks to her employees about layoffs in a team meeting

Some companies announce layoffs due to âa decline in salesâ only to show an increase in earnings for shareholders in the same quarter. This sends a very confusing message to the world. You are making more money, so you are laying people off?

The best companies are clear as to why they are laying offâeven if the reason is unpopular. If you feel appeasing shareholders is more important than keeping people employed, then say so. You might catch a lot of heat for your choice, but at least you wonât look like a liar.

5. No Support For Those Affected

âNow that so many companies have conducted layoffs, it appears that HR departments and management teams have decided to scale back what they spend on outplacement programs (a.k.a. career coaching for those affected by the layoff). And, while their lack of effort to help those who have been working for them usually doesnât make the national news, it does spread like wildfire through the social community.

Today, layoff victims have a large platform for tarnishing the reputation of a former employer who throws them out on the street without help: social media. Companies shouldnât underestimate the negative impact failing to give proper resources to layoff victims will have on their reputation.

6. Not Addressing All Parties Involved

Employees talk about layoffs at work during a meeting

Some companies donât feel they have to explain their reasons for laying off staff to anyone but those affected. What they forget is that anyone involved with their company is affected! For example, employees that donât get let go have to deal with survivorâs guilt. Itâs not as if they wonât ever see or hear from their former colleagues ever again. So, what should they do? And, no matter how hard you try to hide it, customers will hear about the layoffs. Would you rather they hear about it from a disgruntled ex-employee, or from you personally?

In a time when transparency in business is being demanded, companies cannot afford to ignore their communication responsibilities to all parties involved. Otherwise, you can expect to lose the trust of the very people you need on your side to see through these challenging times for your business.

7. Fail To Provide Progress Reports

Woman talks to employees about layoffs during a work meeting

After the deed is done and the employees are let go, many companies try to rush back to âbusiness as usual.â Well, that doesnât work. Why? Because the layoff fundamentally changed your business so there is no going back to the way it was.

Instead, companies should offer weekly progress reports to show those who are still with the company the ongoing efforts they are making to ensure the decision to lay off workers will in the long run be the right thing for both the business and them. You donât stop the communications until you reach the point where you can show proof of success (i.e. stopped losing money, stabilized budget, etc.). At which point, you announce the new game plan to get the company back to its former glory.

8. Not Treating People With Respect After They Are Let Go

Coworker consoles woman who just got laid off

This is by far the most important. Iâm amazed at how many companies let people go and then try their hardest to distance themselves from them. Example: A company I know laid off 2,000 people recently. Not only did they not give them any outplacement services, but they also decided they would not allow anyone at the company to be a reference for those who were let go. As a result, the 2,000 workers had no way to give potential employers a reference to prove they were part of an RIF (reduction in workforce).

The company stated that given the size of the layoff, employers would know about it and wouldnât need references. Well, anyone in HR knows that these days references are very important. The company even went so far as to tell the employees who remained that if they got caught giving a reference, they would be fired. The 2,000 workers were forced to give an automated telephone line where it would verify pay and dates of employment as the reference instead. This created a lot of challenges for those workers who had been with the company for many years since they honestly had no live references they could provide during their job search.

Sharing This Article Will Help Future Layoff Victims!

I hope managers who are reading this article tuck it away so they can use it as a guide if the day comes when they need to conduct a layoff. I also hope anyone who has been affected by a layoff passes it along to their management team. Given how little training there is in conducting effective layoffs, we need to get corporate leadership up to speed on the right way to handle such a difficult situation. History shows that companies that manage the delivery of bad news and the need for change effectively are the ones that survive. So, the more senior management teams who read this and opt to follow the guidelines, the better, right? Do your part to educate your leadership teamâsend them a link to this article today!

Looking for outplacement services for your former employees?

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Check out Work It Daily's outplacement services today! My team and I are looking forward to working with you soon.

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8 Mistakes Companies Make During Layoffs

The Waiting Game: Surviving Job Offer Anxiety

Have you ever felt like you totally rocked an interview? You had all your questions and answers prepared, the hiring manager really seemed impressed, and they even hinted at a call back. You wake up the next morning with a huge grin on your face expecting an email or a phone call, but you receive nothing. No worries, right? âThey will probably get back to me tomorrow," you think to yourself.

However, tomorrow comes and goes, as does the next day and the day after that, all without a phone call or an email. Days turn into a week, and you begin to get a bit antsy. Hope starts to dwindle as the questions begin to mount.

What's taking so long?
Was my interview not as good as I thought?
Did I say something wrong? Did I misread the cues?
Was my writing sample terrible?
Should I send another email?
WHY HAVEN'T THEY CALLED ME BACK?

As time goes on, you are consumed by these questions and can think of nothing else. This is a dangerous time for any job seeker. This inner state of turmoil is often referred to as job offer anxiety.

What Is Job Offer Anxiety?

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Job offer anxiety is the anxiousness and stress one feels usually while waiting for an interview or a callback. This anxiousness is frequently accompanied by tense behavior and rumination. People who suffer from this are in a never-ending search to discover why they haven't received an interview/callback when everything seemed promising.

In a struggle to answer this question, job seekers start to second-guess their interview and writing skills as each day passes. They blame themselves for not getting the call and their confidence all but disappears. Job offer anxiety can even affect job seekers after they have received an offer.

For instance, a job seeker may receive a job offer that happens to be their second choice. The question of whether to accept the offer or wait for their first choice now arises. This may cause unnecessary panic in the applicant which can lead to a misguided decision. Even just waiting for a callback is extremely destructive to the job search. You end up losing focus and wasting valuable time that could be spent pursuing other job opportunities.

If you have ever suffered from job offer anxiety, have no fear. Here are some specific causes of job offer anxiety and ways to overcome them.

Cause #1 - Forgetting To Continue The Job Search

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The solution: Apply for other jobs.

This advice seems obvious, but many people become so focused on the callback that they forget about the end goal: getting a job.

What better way to distract yourself than to continue looking for other jobs? Continuing your job search allows you to take your mind off the callback and get back to using your time wisely. Sitting around and waiting for the perfect job to get back to you isn't productive and won't get you anywhere closer to realizing your goal.

And who knows? While you are being focused and productive, time will pass a lot more quickly and you might finally get that callback you were waiting for, and if not, at least you expanded your job opportunities.

Cause #2 - Restlessness And Insomnia

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The solution: Exercise.

All that stress and anxiety can inflict heavy damage to your body and overall health. Those at WebMD.com recommend people with high anxiety to "relieve tension with vigorous exercise or massage." The Anxiety and Depression Association of America has found that "regular participation in aerobic exercise has been shown to decrease overall levels of tension, elevate and stabilize mood, improve sleep, and improve self-esteem."

When it comes to reducing stress and anxiety, exercise should not be overlooked.

Cause #3 - Lack Of Perspective

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The solution: Realize that HR is on a different time frame than you.

There is no doubt that, when searching for a job, time seems to creep by at a snail's pace. Some like to believe that hiring managers sit at their desk with an evil smirk tapping their fingers together (think Mr. Burns from The Simpsons) purposefully making candidates wait in despair.

Yet, it's easy to forget that employers may have responsibilities other than hiring candidates. Hiring managers would love nothing more than to get through all the applicants in a timely manner. But like every job, things tend to pop up unexpectedly that require immediate attention. It's important to remember this, take a deep breath, and give the hiring manager the benefit of the doubt.

Cause #4 - Not Sure When To Follow Up

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The solution: Use proper follow-up etiquette.

It's important to remember that the interview doesn't end until you have sent a follow-up thank-you letter. Susan Adams of Forbes advises applicants to send a follow-up letter as soon as possible. If you wait too long, other prospective employees might beat you to it.

While sending a handwritten note is a nice thought, it takes much too long for the employer to receive it. So, email is always the best choice for sending your follow-up thank-you note. It's also a nice touch if you add a high point from the interview in your message.

However, even after the follow-up thank-you letter, applicants can still find themselves without a response. In this case, it is appropriate to follow up again.

In "4 Things You Need To Do After The Interview To Get The Job," Sudy Bharadwaj believes that periodically following up every few weeks is a great way to stay on the hiring manager's mind. He recommends that: "Instead of asking, 'Have you made a decision yet?' forward a recent article you've read that you believe he'll find interesting and helpful. Following up in this way demonstrates that you're a great network connection instead of a pesky wannabe employee."

Cause #5 - Lack Of Confidence In Your Resume

via GIPHY

The solution: Check if you made common resume mistakes and/or get your resume reviewed by trained coaches.

One last measure to reduce stress and anxiety during the job search is to make sure your resume is in tip-top shape. Knowing that your resume is up to par can be a great boost to your confidence.

An excellent way to get some tips on your resume is to pass it out to your friends and colleagues. They might be able to bring some fresh ideas to your resume and suggest edits to improve it.

We hope you found these tips for overcoming job offer anxiety to be helpful, no matter where you are in your career. And remember...only worry about the things you can control. You'll avoid a lot of stress and anxiety this way!

We know how difficult it is to overcome anxiety in your job search. If you're struggling to find a job, we're here for you.

We'd love it if you joined our FREE community. Itâs a private, online platform where workers, just like you, are coming together to learn and grow into powerful Workplace Renegades.

It's time to find work that makes you feel happy, satisfied, and fulfilled. Join our FREE community today to finally become an empowered business-of-one!

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The Waiting Game: Surviving Job Offer Anxiety

4 Ways College Grads Can Get A Jump On The Job Search

Finding a job after college can be tough! There's stiff competition, and sometimes students are at the mercy of the economy that they graduate into. Many college grads often take minimum wage jobs or jobs that they're overqualified for in order to make ends meet.

The key to landing a job out of college is preparing for the job search process while still in school. Unfortunately, they don't always teach you about the job search process in school, so it's up to students to take responsibility for their future careers.

Here are some tips to put yourself in a position to land a job after college.

Be Thoughtful About Your Career Path

Do you know what the career options are for your degree? How competitive the industry is? What the average salary is for the type of role you're pursuing?

These are not questions you should be seeking to answer after graduation. These are all questions that should've been asked prior to declaring a major.

Research...research...research!

Knowing what you might be in for after graduation can help you with planning. You could meet with your advisor well in advance of graduation and look at potential internships and identify potential companies to work for, giving you a head start on your networking efforts.

If you failed to prepare like this prior to graduation, you did put yourself at an initial disadvantage, but you're certainly not doomed!

What If You're Unsure About Your Career Path?

Two students look over each others' career materials.

Even after college, some people are unsure about what they want to do for a career. If you find yourself in this situation, don't panic. You need to do an honest assessment of yourself and determine the valuable skills that you possess. Most importantly, ask yourself, "What are some of the things I love doing?"

Work It Daily also has resources that can assist you in your search. Our FREE Career Decoder Quiz will help you determine your professional persona. Knowing your professional persona will help you understand the skills you have that bring value to the job and what you find professionally and personally fulfilling.

In addition, whether you're a graduate or still a student, don't limit your opportunities to learn new skills.

Chances are you have interests outside of your course of study. You should be open to pursuing those interests. It could be that you're a health/science major with an interest in computers. Why not take some computer courses?

Interested in learning a trade? Electricians, plumbers, contractors, and auto mechanics are all in demand.

If you're still in school, you have an opportunity to take additional courses or decide on a double major or minor.

Options may be a bit more limited for recent grads, but there are always online courses, certification programs, or specialty course programs available. As long as you have a hunger for more knowledge, you should never stop wanting to learn. The more skills you have, the more career options are available to you. Options are important during the job search for recent grads.

Educate Yourself About The Job Search Process

A college student goes over her job search checklist.

College can't prepare you for everything, and most of the lessons people learn from the job search process come from real-world experience. However, there are some things you can do to prepare.

First, research as many potential jobs as you can before graduation and identify some potential companies that you would like to work for (this is called your interview bucket list). Second, prepare multiple resumes tailored for the specific positions for which you're applying.

A recruiter needs to see the skills you have that apply to the position within the first six seconds of reading your resume. You should also prepare a disruptive cover letter where you really bring attention to yourself by telling a story about how you connect with the company.

The last thing you need to do is reach out and network. It's not enough to just send in a resume and cover letter and hope that you'll be contacted. Reach out to people who work at the company through LinkedIn and introduce yourself. Use the fact that you're a graduating student seeking knowledge to your advantage. There are professionals who enjoy the opportunity to mentor.

Even if these new connections don't translate into an immediate job, you've made your first professional contacts which could come in handy at some other point in time. Knowing how to conduct a proactive job search will serve you well throughout your professional life.

Remember, There's Nothing Wrong With Changing Career Paths

Sometimes you find happiness and success in a career field that you didn't go to school for. That's okay (and normal). Life happens!

For new grads, the goal is usually to find work in your field of study and it's great when things work out that way. But as the job search process goes on you may fall into a job that you weren't planning to and end up liking it. If the job makes you happy and there's room for growth, there's nothing wrong with keeping it. It's a personal decision.

This will be true throughout your professional life. You may end up working in your field, but, as time goes on, priorities and life circumstances change. You may develop new skills that draw you into a new career direction. The goal is to always put yourself in a position to succeed and sometimes that means making a change.

Preparation and keeping an open mind are the two common themes when it comes to the job search for recent grads. There are no guarantees for new graduates, so you have to be ready for anything. Hopefully, by knowing what to expect, you'll know how to land a job after college and can land a job that matches your talents.

Here at Work It Daily, we understand how difficult it is to find a job and grow your career as a recent college grad. If you're struggling to find a job that's right for you, we can help.

We'd love it if you joined our FREE community. Itâs a private, online platform where workers, just like you, are coming together to learn and grow into powerful Workplace Renegades.

It's time to find work that makes you feel happy, satisfied, and fulfilled. Join our FREE community today to finally become an empowered business-of-one!

This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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4 Ways College Grads Can Get A …

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Are you currently Filling Out Job Programs …

Here's my issue with the word "outplacement." The name itself says, "You're out. Go get placed someplace else." What is a more motivating word?

We see this a lot in business. We hang on to words that maybe made sense at one point in time, but we've evolved. I think this word needs to be retired. But the other issue I have is that the companies that are doing outplacement right now, again, are old school.

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The companies that still do outplacement have been around for a really long time. And when a big company does a layoff and is very visible in the public, they will go and purchase outplacement services from these older companies which honestly are teaching outdated resume, LinkedIn, and cover letter techniques, and aren't really helping laid-off employees figure out what they want to do in their careers.

And how do I know that? Well, I built a platform—a career coaching platform—and all of these people who are getting this "outplacement" are now coming to us after it's been unsuccessful.

The Solution? Career Coaching...

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Think of your employees as becoming alumni of your organization, as the alumni having a place to collectively go. That's what we're doing for companies. Smart companies are doing away with outplacement and coming to us and saying, "Create an alumni center for my folks and give them the support that they need so that they can figure out what they want to do next," and we support them. That's what we do. That is the future of support for the people that you have to let go in your organization.

If you would like to learn more about how that works, you can direct message me and I can share more with you. But even if you don't work with us, please think twice about overpaying for these outplacement services that are really not doing your people any good. There is a better way (and a more motivating word) than outplacement services, and that's career coaching.

Acquiring Job Advance Your Career Career Changing Careers and Employment Education Internship

Why Outplacement Services Don’t Work

Know the saying, “Applying to jobs is a full-time job"? Don't listen to it.

Applying to jobs you're not qualified for is counterproductive to your job search. Competition is too fierce. Even qualified applicants aren't getting callbacks. So, stop applying to so many jobs and allocate time each week to becoming more hirable. Here's how:

1. Volunteer

Young unemployed woman volunteering at a donation drive to fill time while she looks for a job

Volunteering can increase your chances of being hired if you're strategic about it. Unemployed teacher? Help out with after-school programs or volunteer to be a coach's assistant. Web designer? Find a local non-profit in desperate need of a redesign and offer your services pro bono. By volunteering somewhere relevant, you'll keep your skills fresh while enhancing your resume.

2. Keep Your Skills Current

If you lack a skill commonly required for jobs you're seeking, spend time each day developing that skill. Take advantage of numerous free resources online, including tutorials, eBooks, and how-to videos. If you'd rather have more of a class setup, then look for free or affordable classes in your area. Alternatively, if you already possess the necessary skills but haven't been practicing, then do so. Skill atrophy is a huge concern for hiring managers, so practice and get yourself ready for pre-employment skills tests.

3. Network, Network, Network

There are two parts to networking: reconnecting with your old contacts and forming new ones.

Depending on where you are in your career, reconnecting might mean contacting professors, college advisers, and internship supervisors, or it might mean getting in touch with old colleagues, bosses, and business acquaintances. Find them, email them, call them. Ask them if they would like to grab a coffee. Ask how they are (networking is social, after all) and let them know the specifics of your job search (industry, location, etc.). See if they know of anything or anyone. Most importantly, follow up!

At a temporary dead-end with your current contacts? Make new ones. Go to networking events sponsored by your university, industry, city, and so on. And look beyond traditional networking events. Consider going to lectures, neighborhood council meetings, and even community bar crawls (go easy on the sauce).

Each of these provides an opportunity to meet people with similar interests, and you can have fun in the process. Again, follow up!

4. Freelance

Some job seekers are opposed to anything that's not a full-time job. If this sounds like you, it's time to change your mindset. Freelancing is a great way to boost your skills, resume, portfolio, professional network, income, and confidence.

5. Build An Online Presence

Young unemployed man establishing an online presence by writing a blog post while he's looking for work

Get found online. Start a blog, spruce up your social media profiles, and/or create an online portfolio to showcase your work. Find companies you're interested in working for, subscribe to their blogs, and follow them on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Find decision-makers at those companies and follow them as well. Learn what they're talking about, do a little research, and then engage with them online. Impress them with your interest and insights.

Worst-case scenario: You'll learn what's important to them and use this information to customize your application when a job opens up.

Better-case scenario: You'll establish a rapport with someone who will recommend you for a position and/or tell you about hidden job openings.

Best-case scenario: You'll impress someone so much over time that they'll create a job for you or bring you in for an exploratory interview.

So, what are you doing to become more hirable? If you aren't doing anything, then consider doing one (or more!) of these things, starting today.

The job search process can be incredibly frustrating and stressful, especially if you're feeling lost, trapped, or burned out in your career. If you're struggling to find a job that's right for you, we can help.

We'd love it if you joined our FREE community. It’s a private, online platform where workers, just like you, are coming together to learn and grow into powerful Workplace Renegades.

It's time to find work that makes you feel happy, satisfied, and fulfilled. Join our FREE community today to finally become an empowered business-of-one!

This article was originally published at an earlier date.

Acquiring Job Advance Your Career Career Changing Careers and Employment Education Internship