Posts tagged Unemployed
Young and Unemployed: Why You Can’t Find a Job
Mar 12th
According to a U.S. Department of Labor survey, 70.9% of the total United States population is comprised of men and women ages 20 – 24. That’s a pretty hefty percentage who recently abandoned childhood dreams of a career as a superhero or a princess.
“Get your degree so you can get a real job,” your parents said.
But if your parents have your best interests in mind, why have you graduated and still don’t have a job?
The same survey from the Department of Labor suggests that only about 13% of 20 – 24 year-old college graduates are part of the labor force. That leaves a pretty hefty percentage of them living at home, wishing they held the mask and cape you abandoned. It may feel like it sometimes, but spending four years in college wasn’t a waste of time; if you only have a high school diploma, the unemployment rate is twice as high.
Common discourse on the economy aside, finding a job after graduation has been difficult since the 1970s. When you graduate, especially if you didn’t work during school, you have few marketable skills and little experience to show, no matter how good your grades are. Some employers simply won’t hire people right out of undergrad, opting for candidates with a Master’s degree or who paid their dues in an unpaid internship.
A recent New York Times article broke down what anyone in their 20s already knows: right after you graduate, and especially if you have a liberal arts degree, you often have to work for free. That is, if you can afford it.
So what can you do to improve your chances of finding a paid position?
Pay Your Dues While You’re Still in School
It’s in your best interest to find a part-time job or an internship while you’re still in school, preferably in a field you enjoy. This will vastly improve your job prospects and will help you make contacts that will be invaluable once you graduate. if Do this while you’re still in school, and you will have a better chance of being able to move out your mom’s house.
If you didn’t have time for an internship in college, you probably have leadership skills from a club or group that you can highlight in your resume. Unfortunately, it’s become the norm for companies to hire unpaid interns, and you may have to take a position like this if you want to advance in your field (especially if that field is media-related). The sad truth is, many people can’t afford to take an unpaid internship, and if you find yourself in that boat, you’re definitely not alone.
Make Your Resume Job-Specific
Lots of people don’t understand that it’s absolutely essential to tweak your resume for each job you apply to. The chances of having a resume make a strong impression increase exponentially when you think like an employer: use keywords that are derived from the job description, and trim out any information that is unrelated or looks like filler. If you don’t know anything about keywords, this article is a good place to start.
Apply to Jobs You’re Qualified For
Another reason Millennials aren’t finding jobs is because many are applying to jobs that aren’t suited to their skills. Desperate times call for desperate measures, but that isn’t to say that because your marketing degree isn’t getting you the job you want, you should start applying for entry-level accounting positions. You might feel it’s a catch-22: if you limit yourself to jobs that you’re continuously being rejected from you’ll never actually get hired. This isn’t always true. Focus on applying for jobs that you’re qualified for and want —you earned your degree in the field that you did for a reason. Use social media to network with people at firms that you are interested in and stay on your toes. Job hunting takes time.
Expand Your Resources
Start looking into staffing agencies (like us!) who have lots of jobs that aren’t posted online. Companies often come to us to do confidential searches, and if you’re in our network, we might be able to help you snag a gig you wouldn’t have found otherwise. Check out our job listings here.
Look for positions at startups, who are always expanding and looking for young people who are excited about their projects. Because enthusiasm is a big hiring factor, and the companies are small, don’t be afraid to reach out to the founder of the company on LinkedIn. Even if you can’t get a paid position, it will fill a hole in your resume, and you’ll make some valuable contacts.
Volunteering is another good way to find contacts and to keep you occupied while you’re unemployed. Do a quick Google search and try and find something you’re interested in.
Keep Your Social Media Accounts Polished
As much as you might like to tell yourself that employers don’t check your social media profiles, they do. Your profile isn’t as safe as you think; more and more companies are screening their applicants on Facebook or Twitter. Do the smart thing and clean house of all those tweets about how you hate hunting for a job or how “productive” you’re being watching daytime reality TV on your couch. Also, the fact that you’re 21 means you can legally do keg stands, but can you reasonably have pictures of it on your Facebook page? Think about what’s important to you, and keep your private life private.
Make sure your LinkedIn account accurately reflects your resume and your accomplishments, and make sure you have a professional-looking picture. Companies are using LinkedIn more and more to pre-screen applicants. If you don’t have a LinkedIn, it’s time to set one up.
Try to Stay Positive
Don’t let discouragement deter you from remaining steadfast in your job search. It takes time and persistence. Remember, the market is tough right now. Make use of the connections that you have made in school and seek out new connections in the hopes that they will open doors for you. Not being able to land a job is not necessarily indicative of your abilities; it is a result of these challenging times. If you start to feel like your efforts are futile, step back and channel your inner superhero. You have the power to make things happen when you set your mind to it.
Good luck!
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on March 12, 2013 at 10:32 am, and is filed under Chronicles For Candidates, Human Resource, Job Search. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
How to Address Employment Gaps on Your Resume
Jan 28th
How do you handle employment gaps on your resume? Most people have a gap in their employment history at some point in time. The length of this time may vary and this is where the difficulty in addressing it lies. On top of this, there are numerous reasons for gaps, perhaps because of a company-wide layoff, maternity leave, health issues, family emergencies, going back to college? These are all valid reasons for employment gaps. But how do you explain this on your resume?
A short employment gap of a month or two is not of high concern to those with several years of experience. However, at first glance, a recruiter or hiring manager is likely to see a long employment gap and immediately raise a brow. A great analogy was stated on Careerealism, an employee is like a house that’s for sale. If it sits on the market for too long, buyers assume that something is wrong. When you decide to take six to nine months off, employers start to wonder the same thing about you.
If you left to pursue a degree, the “education” section of your resume will show this gap. You can also create a “volunteer” section if you took time off to pursue this route. For parenting or other family related reasons be sure to highlight the reasons in your cover letter. You don’t have to get too personal, but a brief explanation If you’re returning to the workforce after an extended absence unrelated to these topics, show how you’ve kept up-to-date with changes in your industry. Don’t just let the cover letter explain it all. That’s like leaving your job search to chance. On your resume showcase how you have remained up to date with your skills.
If asked about the gap during a job interview, use the same brief explanation indicated in your cover letter. You want to convey that the situation is over and you are focused on rejoining the workforce.
For more advice on how to explain employment gaps, click here.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on January 28, 2013 at 10:06 am, and is filed under Right Your Resume. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
Unemployment Tips
Nov 5th
According to a report released 4 days before the presidential election, hiring was surprisingly strong in October, while the unemployment rate ticked higher, but behind the increase was some good news. Economists surveyed by CNNMoney had expected employers to add 125,000 positions, so the boost in hiring was mostly seen as a positive surprise. This is hopeful news, but doesn’t neglect the fact that thousands are still facing unemployment. After a job loss there is no guarantee how long you will be out of a job. Below are tips on how to survive beyond that first week of employment.
In the days following job loss be sure to update your LinkedIn profile. You don’t necessarily have to put your end dates just yet, but adjust your header to indicate you are open to new employment. This is also the time to ask your colleagues and bosses for recommendations. At a study at UCLA and State University of New York-Stony Brook researchers found that, all things being equal, unemployed job applicants are viewed as less competent, warm and hireable than employed folks — whether they were fired, laid off or quit voluntarily. This doesn’t mean lie about your employment. During an interview be honest and avoid catching yourself in a lie. Employers will appreciate your honesty.
Don’t be fooled, as time goes on looking for a work is a full time job. You shouldn’t spend all this time on job boards and networking though. You could use this time to explore other options. Perhaps you have a hobby that you can turn into freelance or part time work or explore what other talents you might possess. The goal here isn’t to replace your income from your former job, but to hone a new skill, bring in a cash flow that wouldn’t otherwise be there and learn acceptable and independence. This is a great way to prevent fear and obsession over your job search. Remember from my last blog post, “Overcome Your Biggest Fear as a Jobseeker”, that fear sometimes results in self-sabotage.
Careerealism created a list of what to do:
- Identify a hobby you want to become more of an expert in.
- Look for ways you can gain skills that would let you monetize the hobby.
- Read up on small business and take steps to launch your hobby career.
- Share with friends, family, colleagues that you are doing this as a way to expand your skill sets in something you love.
For more advice on how to utilize this time, click here.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on November 5, 2012 at 10:46 am, and is filed under Job Search. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
Networking: Online and Local Events
Aug 17th
U.S. unemployment and underemployment statistics are still a major issue effecting job seekers in our economy. Fortunately with the rise of social media as a job searching tool in recent years, sites such as Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter make the job hunt more accessible.
Make a list of target companies that offer roles on your projected career path. Follow them on Twitter and LinkedIn, and “like” their Facebook pages. This is a great way to stay up to date on the latest highlights, job openings and fillings. You should also check to see if you are connected to current employees at a company of interest. You may surprise yourself and discover you have a strong 3rd party connection somewhere.
It may also prove beneficial to reach out to individuals on already on your desired career path – perhaps friends of friends, college alumni, etc. Ask questions about how they arrived where they are now and advice you can follow to get there. You can also ask if they can refer you to another professional, but do not be straightforward and ask for a job on the spot. Remember, social networking is here to provide you some extra ease for connecting with business professionals and finding you a career – use it wisely.
Don’t rule out attending events in your area because you have an online presence. One on one interaction is always an added plus when networking. You have the ability to leave someone with a more memorable impression of you.
Here are some great rules when networking at an event:
- Try to avoid idle chatter. Sincere interest in the other person is the objective.
- If you want a successful event, talk your server staff, the event manager, the valet, not just the attendees.
- Try to speak positively—whether about other people, the event you’re at, or even the conversations you’re in.
- If the conversation has run its course, graciously exit. Then be the first with a follow-up email, a thank-you note, or an appreciative call.
For more rules to follow when networking, click here.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on August 17, 2012 at 11:45 am, and is filed under Networking, Social Media. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
Job Hunting Tips for Recent Grads
Aug 6th
Congratulations, you’ve earned your degree! Are you now on the job hunt for your perfect job? Summertime used to be the time to where you could postpone responsibilities and have fun in the sun. It can now be easy to lose focus, but you cannot lose sight of your bigger objective: find a job.
Here are a couple of suggestions to keep you focused and away from sitting around in the sun all day without a career.
- Don’t feel limited by your major.
- Don’t be afraid to reach out to people that can help you.
- Don’t pass up opportunities (but don’t settle for what will make you miserable).
- Update your personal brand.
- Define the job you want.
- Write objectives.
Your major does not define your career path. Your major should play to your strengths. Inform employers about the skills you learned through your major, not the major itself. Don’t forget to take advantage of your campus resources and alumni networks. You never know what can happen. Make sure you learn how to effectively ask for help, reach out, and network. Alumni meetings can lead to great recommendations and/or job leads.
Job searches tend to pass up great opportunities because they think they won’t get anything out them. You should at least consider all of them and focus on what they have to offer. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of what’s placed in front of you and spin it to your advantage. You might have to start at a company or position that you think won’t help you get your dream job. Just remember, you can always spin things that you did during one job to make them seem applicable to another one, just like you can with your major.
For more pointers to keep on track click here.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on August 6, 2012 at 12:37 pm, and is filed under Recent and Upcoming Grads. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
The Dreaded Question and How to Answer It
Jan 13th
When compiling the “experience” portion of your resume it may sting a little when writing end dates – especially if it wasn’t a smooth “break up.”
In your next interview you know you will be asked, “Why did you leave your last job?”
It’s a question that takes some preparation because you don’t want to:
- Over divulge information that is unnecessary – like how you clashed with some co-workers or didn’t like the management team
- When we get nervous we tend to ramble. Practicing can prepare you to go slow and focus, rather than get caught up in nerves
Here are some great tactics on how respond to this question:
- Short and sweet – As mentioned above, don’t over talk
- Honesty is the best policy – If you were let go, be honest and tell the Hiring Manager why. They will find out anyway and you want to make sure you portray the experience in a positive light
- Positively sure – Even if your last experience was a horrible one, don’t let that show through in your interview. Prepare and note some great qualities your last job possessed and mention what you learned
Do you have some great tactics that you would like to share when asked this question? Please share on our Facebook Page.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on January 13, 2012 at 8:58 pm, and is filed under Chronicles For Candidates, Human Resource, Interview With The Interviewer. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
Whistle While You…Are Not Working
Mar 9th
If you find that you have been out of work for longer than you would like to admit, you may want to introduce some change into your daily routine.
Here are some ways to mix it up:
• Give Back
Volunteering and participating in charity events is a great way to spend your free time. It also benefits your self-esteem and self-worth!
• Enroll
Do you want to learn a new language, become a Pilates expert, master downward facing dog? Sign up for classes. Short on dough? Check out places that are donation based like Yoga To The People on Saint Marks.
• Part Time
Take a job working part time. This way you can gain experience, make some extra money, and continue on your job search
• Call A Recruiter
Get in touch with a recruiter today to help you on your way to your next full/part time job. Most recruiters, like us, work with a large variety of companies. We network for you!
Email your resume today – resumes(at)pyramidcg(dot)com.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on March 9, 2011 at 9:04 pm, and is filed under Chronicles For Candidates, Out and About, Reasons Recruiting Rules, SINC - Source, Interact, Network, Connect. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
Sites For Seekers – Have A Laugh
Dec 29th
As I’ve stated in previous posts, I know what it is like to be unemployed. Most days I woke up with nothing else to do but search and apply for jobs. By late afternoon, I found myself exploring less serious things to do (aside from watch TV and play Scrabble against a computer.)
I wish I knew about this laughable, lighthearted blog – Stuff Unemployed People Like
The last post was published this past summer but the list of 152 things that the jobless like will get your mind off of applying and hopefully help in the “smile department.”
Our favorite has to be number 39 - Finally Having Time To “Be An Artist.”
Why is it our favorite?
For example, I started a blog when I was searching for a job. On my spare time I wrote, posted, and taught myself how to publish online.
Now, with Pyramid Consulting Group, I get to write and be creative for a living! Do what inspires you, pick up a hobby, and keep on applying.
See you next year!
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on December 29, 2010 at 7:14 pm, and is filed under Sites For Seekers. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
On The Job – Searching Is (Should Be) A Full Time Job
Dec 7th
As someone who was once unemployed not too long ago, I can attest to the fact that looking for a job, if done consistently and with dedication, is a full time job.
Kate Wilson, contributing writer at The Job Bored mentions various ways to get organized in your search.
Inspired by her post – I have decided to share my daily “to do list” of applying, following up and getting organized while unemployed. Of course the list changed depending on the day, job boards, and networking lunches and follow ups.
Get Serious In The AM – Board To Death
• I was constantly on every job board out there. Even though I was getting the daily newsletters, I was still visiting the sites, blogs, and researching new boards. When I saw something that WAS A FIT FOR ME I applied.
• IMPORTANT – Even though you may be desperate keep in mind that the employers may not be. Don’t apply for jobs just to apply. It will drain you and it’s a huge waste of time. Spend more time perfecting your resume, personalizing cover letters, and hand writing notes. ANYTHING to help you stand out!
• The early morning is the best time to conquer this part of the application process. Be the first to apply and the first to follow up on your application via phone, email, handwritten letter and hard copy of your resume by the end of the day.
Afternoon Delight
• Make a list of follow ups, cards, calls, and network emails to complete before the end of the day.
• After you’ve met your goals (mine was to apply to at least 3-5 jobs a day) and made your list – take a break. Go for a walk, set aside an hour to watch TV, read a book, run, anything! Do not overwhelm yourself because your burn out rate will be incredibly high.
Signed, Sealed, Delivered
• Gather all notes, thank you’s and resumes and walk them over to the corporate office/contact. This is not an everyday venture – but if you find something that you MUST interview for – do whatever it takes to get that interview. Doing too much never hurt. Doing too little gets you absolutely nowhere.
• If you have nothing planned for an outing of deliveries – call HR Managers, industry contacts, old colleagues and check in. You never know what could be opening up…
Checking In
• Kate Wilson makes a great point in her article. When you were working you always had a manager or supervisor to answer to. Delegate this responsibility to a trustworthy friend or family member. Have them call you once a week to discuss your process. Take it a step further and send them your weekly “to do list” and review each point and task with them.
This “to do list” is very general and worked for me most days. The most important piece of advice I can give to the unemployed is to STAY POSITIVE. Believe it or not this will not be your situation forever. If you make it your job to find a job you will not fail!
Please email me with any questions regarding your search, career conundrums, and interview inquiries.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on December 7, 2010 at 5:09 pm, and is filed under On The Job. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
SINC: Don’t Panic
Sep 22nd
The first mistake that the newly jobless make is PANIC. Whether you’ve been laid off, fired, or let go, the truth is that you are unemployed.
First, Organize and Categorize
- Go over all your experience and match it with your ideal job description and role.
- Do not limit yourself to one industry or position. Draft resumes and cover letters for your top five to ten positions.
- Set goals. List the number of jobs you will apply for daily, schedule follow up days, and rest days (don’t torture yourself – you’re allowed to take a break when you’re unemployed) BUT don’t lose sight of your ultimate goal – landing a job as soon as possible.
Second, Update All Profiles
-Update all PUBLIC profiles professionally. If you have “personal” pictures, quotes, wall posts, ect. either take them all down or make the profile private (we have passed on interviewing potential candidates due to Facebook profiles.)
Third, Reconnect
-Depending on how long you’ve been out of work make sure you always keep in touch with all contacts whether you’re working, not working, or have moved to a different industry.
First things first, do not panic during this time. Take advantage of the time off and use it to search for openings in companies you’ve always wanted to work for, apply for jobs you’ve dreamed of, and take time to assess your career situation.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on September 22, 2010 at 2:52 pm, and is filed under SINC - Source, Interact, Network, Connect. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
