Stephen Bloomfield

….just as long as you keep going!

It is now some 14 months since I voluntarily left my last position, and this journey is more complex to navigate than I had imagined it would be. Of course, being a proud member of Generation-X I knew it would be challenging, but I must admit, considering all the technology now used, I am shocked at just how little progress has been made in impartiality. Be prepared to grapple with some ‘isms’, as they still rear their head from time to time.

But are we disheartened, no we are not! For those of you who are just entering the job search market here are ten tips that might just save you same time!

1. Do not automatically believe what you read.  The posting date and number of applicants are often not accurate. If you find a job you really like, think about applying directly on the company’s website and follow up directly.
2. If a job is more than a week old, you are probably wasting your time even applying.
3. Easy or quick apply buttons will have a deluge of applications. Unless you are in the first ten, pivot and apply on the hiring company’s site.
4. Modern APS (Applicant tracker Systems) rates you against the position description, but how do you know how you rate? Consider investing in a tool like Jobscan. Tools such as this will help you identify where you resume may be lacking, giving you the opportunity to better highlight your appropriate experience prior to applying.
5. Be prepared for APS managed jobs not allowing for a cover-letter, so your resume really does have to do all the heavy lifting! Put away that idea of filling in any information gaps with the cover letter!
6. It is OK to shorten you resume by removing the oldest experience, but only if it serves no purpose.
7. Do not be afraid to take temporary assignments, you will learn something new for sure. I certainly have.
8. Do not forget about your old friends, previous colleagues, and family. Talk to them, you just never know who knows who!
9. Do not forget about your retirement savings. If you have some spare time, make sure to get hold of whatever you can and make sure it is being invested as wisely as possible. Get some financial advice if necessary. Your money can work for you even when you are not!
10.  Lastly and most importantly, have no regrets, it will serve you no purpose. For those of you who voluntarily left a position, and I know of lot of you now, there was always a good reason! Don’t forget it, use it to motivate yourself. For those of you who were let go, their loss, right! You have an opportunity to make changes for the better, grab it.

As you have probably guessed my search for the perfect full-time position continues, but my irons in the fire grow with every week. I know things will work out…. as long as I keep on going!

Please reach out to me if you think I can help, I am always happy to network!