It's time again to clear out the "IN" box for Career Advice and answer some questions - this week centering on what to do if your unemployment is running out.....
This week in Career Advice we'll discuss what you can do if your unemployment is running out and you still don't have a job.
Q: HELP! I've been out of work for quite awhile, and unemployment will soon stop sending me any cheques. I've been networking, going to employment agencies and consultants, and sending out my Resume whenever possible. I've had some interviews for some great sounding jobs, and have even gone for second interviews, but nothing has panned out. With unemployment running soon out I am getting really scared. Any suggestions?? I'm in my early 40's - do you think that's a problem?
A: Your age is only a problem if you think it is. The main point to focus on right now is some kind of income for when your unemployment payments do run out. You say you have had interviews, but have you approached the company or the agency as to how you can improve to get the next job? Often it is just that a better candidate was in the running, or that the other candidate's personality was felt to be a better match to the rest of the team. Don't be afraid to ask why and say it is because you want to improve. And remember that if you are not a good match, it is better NOT to get that job as you'd be leaving (or asked to leave) within a short time.
Now, consider doing some volunteer work - possibly in your area of work, but that part does not matter as much as volunteering for something you might enjoy. The idea is to keep yourself within the working world, and volunteering will fit in with your hours as well as any unemployment regulations. And yes, the reason for volunteering is more than two-fold: you are giving back to the community (which looks good on your Resume); you are networking (I find many people get work through this type of network); AND you are doing something that makes you feel good about yourself - this will shine through at any interview - and it also shows the potential employer that you are a willing participant of life - not content to just sit back and wait for interviews!
As your payments draw to a close though, you will have to consider working outside of your desired field. And yes, you will probably have to take a lower paying job than your previous one. Remember that you still have bills to pay, and for some reason it often works out that a job in your area or an area you'd consider will pop up once you have started working again.
Understand that you may have to work outside your area for awhile - and keep those employment agencies and consultants looking for work for you in your chosen area. You may also want to check out any education or upgrading possibilities open to you - check with your Employment Centre. I also suggest you re-evaluate the kind of work/job you are reaching for - is it too junior for you now? Is it an unrealistic goal within today's economy? With many years of experience you may want to consider looking at a more managerial position - and that can be in ANY field, not just the one you have been recently working within.
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Copyright November 7, 2006. Paym Bergson and Suite 101. All rights reserved. Any unauthorized use of this material will constitute an infringement of copyright.
