Laid off from your job unexpectedly? Not sure what to do first, or next? This guide is designed to help you navigate the transition and find new employment. The guide is broken down into three sections: Things to do immediately, things to do within the first week, and things to do within the first month. Immediate Actions (What to Do Right After Being Laid Off)
The First Week (Building Your Foundation)
The First Month (Solidify Your Job Search)
Source: https://www.market-connections.net/blog/job-loss-action-plan-what-to-do-immediately-and-beyond You May Also Like: Checklist: Getting Ready for a Job Search: Mastering the Job Search: Changing Jobs – A Significant Life Transition: Handling Rejection in Your Job Search: 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Job Hunting: About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing effective resumes. Put Yourself in the Employer's ShoesEmployers often rely on first impressions when reviewing resumes for a job opening. A well-crafted resume can make a positive first impression. But certain things on the resume can raise concerns with prospective employers. Are these red flags on your resume?
If you have red flags in your employment history, working with a professional resume writer can help you position yourself effectively in your career documents, ensuring that your resume only throws up green flags for prospective employers. To discuss the content of your resume and learn more about how I can help, please feel free to schedule a Discovery Call with me. You May Also Like:
About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. Thinking about changing jobs or starting a job search? This checklist will help ensure you are ready to embark on your job search. These are the tools you’ll want to have ready.
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About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing effective resumes. At some point in your life, you’ve probably muttered the words, “I hate my job.” Maybe you’ve even shouted it out loud in frustration. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many people experience job dissatisfaction at some point in their careers. However, hating your current job does not necessarily mean you need to change careers entirely. Before making a drastic decision, it’s important to understand the difference between disliking a job and needing a career shift. A Job vs. A Career: Understanding the DifferenceJob change or career change? That’s the question! A job is something you do to earn money. It may be temporary, part-time, or even full-time, but it doesn’t always contribute to long-term career goals. A career, on the other hand, is a long-term journey where you develop skills, gain experience, and work toward a higher professional objective. People who focus on building a career tend to have long-term goals and make job choices that align with their professional aspirations. If you find yourself hating your current job, the key question to ask is: Do I dislike my job, or am I on the wrong career path? More often than not, people dislike the environment, management, or specific duties of a job rather than the entire career path they’ve chosen. In such cases, switching jobs rather than switching careers can be a more effective solution. Why Switching Jobs Might Be the AnswerBefore you decide to leave your career path altogether, consider whether the problem lies in the specific job rather than the career itself. There are several reasons why someone might hate their job, including:
If any of this sounds familiar, it might be time to look for a different job—one that aligns better with your values, skills, and professional goals—rather than abandoning your career altogether. A Career Offers More Earning Potential Than Random JobsIt’s important to remember that building a career usually leads to greater financial stability and professional satisfaction than hopping from one unrelated job to another. When you commit to a career, you are investing in long-term growth, networking, and expertise within a particular field. People who develop careers rather than just holding jobs tend to earn more money over time and experience a greater sense of accomplishment. Consider the difference between someone who takes random jobs just to pay the bills and someone who carefully plans their career trajectory. The first individual may struggle to earn higher wages and might experience job instability, while the second person steadily climbs the ladder within a chosen profession. For example, journalism is a career with various job opportunities including news reporting, editing, and investigative journalism. A person pursuing a journalism career may start as a local newspaper reporter covering small-town events. While this role might not be their ultimate dream job, it serves as a stepping stone. Over time, they gain experience, build a portfolio, and eventually move into higher-profile positions such as a news anchor or senior investigative journalist. If this individual were to leave journalism entirely simply because they disliked their first reporting job, they would be abandoning years of education and skill-building. Instead, by switching to a different job within the same career path, they can continue progressing toward their long-term career goals. How to Find a Better Job Within Your Career PathIf you hate your job but still believe in your career, here are some steps to take before making a change:
Final Thoughts: Stay Committed to Your CareerJust because you hate your current job doesn’t mean you have to give up on your career. Every profession has ups and downs, and sometimes the best move is not to abandon ship but to find a better role within the same field. By focusing on long-term career growth and making strategic job changes, you can find a fulfilling and rewarding path without having to start over from scratch. So, before you decide to switch careers, ask yourself: Do I hate my career, or do I just need a better job? More often than not, the answer lies in making smarter job choices rather than completely reinventing your professional path. YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:
About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing effective resumes. We’re only a month and a half into 2025 and it’s not too late. Whether the new year started strong or you’re still finding your momentum, now is the perfect time to refocus and take intentional steps toward making this your best career year yet. With the right strategies, a proactive mindset, and a commitment to growth, you can seize new opportunities, expand your skills, and position yourself for success. This report includes 14 powerful tips in addition to action steps you can take immediately. It also includes a list of suggested readings for even more information. Top TipsThis report provides actionable tips, strategies, and insights to help you seize opportunities and elevate your professional life in 2025. Whether you're seeking a promotion, changing industries, or honing your skills, these tips will empower you to approach the new year with clarity and confidence. Use this guide to set goals, develop in-demand skills, and embrace intentional career growth.
The “Handshake” website offers a blog post that introduces the SMART strategy to help define and achieve career objectives: How to Set Clear Career Goals (https://joinhandshake.com/blog/students/how-to-set-clear-career-goals/) Additionally, The University of Wisconsin–Madison offers a guide on setting career goals using the SMART criteria, which can help in creating specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely objectives: Setting Career Goals. It also offers a template called “Professional Development Plan: Basic Example”.
Aside from vocational schools, community colleges, and universities, there are countless resources for lifelong learning. LinkedIn Learning can be a great resource. You may also Google Career Certificates. You will find more information about them by clicking on this link: Fast Track Your Career: Google Career Certificates for In-Demand Skills.
Also, The Muse offers advice on how to set long-term career goals, which includes strategies for effective networking: https://www.themuse.com/advice/set-long-term-career-goals-worksheet
To emphasize your brand, the VeryWellMind website teaches How to Jumpstart Your Career With a Personal Mission Statement.
FAST ACTION STEPS
FURTHER READING
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing effective resumes. Have you recently experienced a business or career setback that has left you feeling lost, unsure of your next steps, and wondering if you'll ever be able to bounce back? Do you wonder why is career change so hard? If so, you're not alone. Everyone on the planet experiences setbacks at some point in life, and it's natural to feel upset and discouraged when they happen. But understanding that change is a normal part of learning and growth will shift your perspective. To begin, figure out if you are after a job change or career change. And when you're ready to move on and start something new, consider these steps to help you get back on track and put your past setbacks behind you. Reflect on What Went WrongTake some time to think about what led to the setback. What were the challenges you faced? What mistakes did you make? What could you have done differently? When you reflect on what went wrong, you will identify any patterns or areas where you need to improve. Get Some SupportIf one thing is vital to your ability to bounce back, it’s having a supportive network of folks who want to and are willing to help you through tough times and provide you with guidance and encouragement. Reach out to people you trust and confide in them about your struggles. They may be able to offer you valuable insights and advice, or simply provide you with the emotional support you need to get through this difficult time. Take Care of YouAfter a setback, it's easy to get caught up in negative thoughts and feelings. However, taking care of your physical and emotional wellbeing is important, even when dealing with a difficult situation. Ensure that you get enough sleep, eat well, and engage in behaviors that help you relax and recharge. Learn from MistakesThe fact is, pretty much every setback is an opportunity for growth and learning. Try to take the lessons you've learned from your experiences so that you can apply them to your future endeavors. Use your experiences to make better decisions, and with each choice you make, you’ll become better at it. Be Kind to YourselfIt's natural to feel disappointed and upset after a setback, but it's important to remember that everyone makes mistakes and goes through change. So be kind and try not to beat yourself up over what happened. Instead, focus on the positive things you've accomplished and the progress you've made, and use it as motivation to keep moving forward. Take a BreakIf you're feeling overwhelmed and burnt out, it may be helpful to take a break from work and focus on other aspects of your life for a while (as long as you can afford to). Use this time to relax, recharge, and pursue hobbies or activities that bring you joy so you can return to your work with a fresh perspective and renewed energy. Some people claim that a midlife career change was the best thing that happened in their life. Look for New OpportunitiesOnce ready, look for new opportunities aligned with your goals and interests. This may be a great chance to figure out how to change your life fast. Don't fear risks and trying new things – sometimes, the best opportunities come from leaving your comfort zone. Remember, it's okay to experience setbacks and changes in your career or business. However, it is vital to learn from them and use them as opportunities to grow and improve. When you are kind to yourself, moving on and starting something new in a better place will happen – and you’ll be better than ever in the process. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * You May Also Like:
About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. Did you know that 25-40% of the population identifies as introverted? Despite their many strengths, introverts often feel at a disadvantage when it comes to job interviews, which can seem tailor-made for extroverted personalities. However, with the right strategies, introverts can not only survive interviews but thrive in them. Understanding the Challenges for IntrovertsInterviews can feel daunting for introverts because they typically favor spontaneous, verbal communication. Challenges include:
Acknowledging these challenges is the first step toward overcoming them. Turning Introversion into a StrengthIntroversion is not a weakness—it’s a unique asset. Here are ways to leverage your introverted traits in an interview:
Actionable Tips for IntrovertsPrepare Thoroughly
Use Grounding Techniques
Frame Your Introversion Positively
Practice Small Talk
Leverage Technology
Collaborating With HR and RecruitersIntroverts can also find allies in recruiters and HR professionals. Here's how:
Many companies use outside recruiting firms to identify candidates. These recruiters often have close ties with hiring managers and can advocate for you by highlighting your strengths and offering advice on how to approach the interview. Practical Perspective: Reframing the BuildupFor introverts, the anticipation of an interview can be more stressful than the interview itself. It’s natural to second-guess yourself or feel unworthy. If you find yourself spiraling, remember:
Two Introverts Who ThrivedReal-world examples can offer inspiration:
Closing Thoughts: Empowering IntrovertsIntroversion is not a limitation; it’s part of what makes you unique. By preparing effectively, embracing your strengths, and reframing how you view interviews, you can turn what feels like an uphill battle into an opportunity to shine. Remember: Employers are not just hiring you for your skills—they’re hiring your potential, perspective, and personality. You bring all three to the table. Take pride in who you are. With preparation and a positive mindset, you will not just survive interviews—you will excel in them. You May Also Like:
About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. Job Search HacksHere is an easy way to network on LinkedIn and find the people who may be able to help you find your next job: Step 1In your LinkedIn Search box, type the title of the job you are seeking; In this case, I typed PROJECT MANAGER: Enter your desired job title in the SEARCH box. Step 2Next, click on the PEOPLE option: Step 3Next, click on ALL FILTERS: Step 4
Step 5You will see a list of people who:
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Connect with these people and contact them to help you get into 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗷𝗼𝗶𝗻. It's that easy! You May Also Like:
About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing effective resumes. Purposeful Work in the Second Half of LifeIf you find yourself approaching retirement age or have already reached it and are not prepared to disengage from the workforce, you're not alone. A significant number of individuals aged 55 and above are embarking on what is often referred to as "encore careers." Coined by Marc Freeman in his book Encore: Finding Work That Matters in the Second Half of Life, this term signifies a new phase of employment between the middle years and true old age. Surprisingly, 82 percent of Americans aged 50 and above express the belief that work will continue to be a significant part of their lives during what was traditionally considered retirement years. This information is based on a 2013 survey conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. With improved health and extended life expectancy compared to earlier generations, coupled with higher levels of education, individuals today are more likely to remain active in the workforce. The two main factors driving this trend are financial stability and a heightened sense of well-being. The evolution of Social Security benefits and the diminishing prevalence of defined pension plans have established financial motives for prolonging one's career. If you were born between 1943 and 1954, your full retirement age is 66, gradually extending to 67 for those born between 1955 and 1960. Due to increased life expectancy—where the average 65-year-old today is expected to live until age 85, with over a third reaching age 90—opting to defer the receipt of retirement benefits until age 70 is financially prudent. Doing so results in a monthly benefits increase of 20 percent or more. Addressing the healthcare coverage gap between early retirement and Medicare eligibility at 65, along with the additional expenses of Medicare Part B, supplementary insurance, and prescription drug plans, along with concerns about prospective healthcare costs (the typical 65-year-old couple retiring this year might incur around $245,000 in medical expenses not covered by Medicare), amplifies the need for additional income. Compounding this need to remain in the workforce is the rising trend of Baby Boomers providing financial support to their "adult" children into their late 20s or 30s, as well as taking on the role of primary caretakers for grandchildren or aging parents. Nevertheless, motivations for continuing to work extend beyond financial necessity. For Traditionalists (born in 1945 and earlier) and Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964), work has been a defining aspect of their identity for decades. A 2012 report from the Sloan Center on Aging & Work underscores the significance of maintaining connections and a sense of purpose to sustain both physical and mental well-being. When AARP explored the reasons why older workers choose to stay in the labor force, around 70 percent expressed that they continue working, at least in part, because they find enjoyment in it. Many individuals are repurposing their corporate skills to contribute to nonprofit organizations. Some are taking on part-time roles to pursue new or long-standing interests. Moreover, there's a growing trend of individuals pursuing their passions, simultaneously addressing market needs, by establishing small businesses. Is Age a Concern?Let’s address the elephant in the room: age discrimination is real. Two out of three workers between the ages of 45 and 74 say they have seen — or experienced — age discrimination at work, and surprisingly, jobseekers over age 35 cite age as a top obstacle to getting hired. No doubt some employers can’t look past a candidate’s age. However, there are many traits associated with “old” that are within your control. These include:
How you present yourself on paper, during the interview, and on the job, can help sway a prospective employer’s perceptions about your age. So, instead of hanging your head — certain that your age will be a barrier to attaining an encore career — market your age as a plus. Get up to speed on the latest technology. Fight ageism by being physically fit, energetic, and positive in attitude. And don’t be a know-it-all with a chip on your shoulder. Stay at the top of your game through building your personal brand. Discovering Your Ideal CareerThe most popular encore career fields are found in education, healthcare, and nonprofit organizations. A MetLife Foundation/Civic Ventures New Face of Work Survey revealed that the desire to do work that enhances the well-being of others is widespread. “Fully half of all adults aged 50 to 70 (and 58 percent of those 50 to 59) aspire to work in seven areas that combine the seriousness, income, and other benefits associated with work with the desire to contribute to the greater good. Indeed, when asked specifically to name the kind of work they would prefer to do in the future, those surveyed named education and social services as two of their three top choices. Both finished just behind retail work — an area where much recruitment of aging Americans is underway. Healthcare jobs also finish high on the priority list.” If you always wanted to be your boss, self-employment is an attractive option for an encore career, as is freelance or “gig work” (independent contractors, on-call workers, and workers provided by temporary help agencies or contract firms). Knowledge and resources gained through years of experience may also put older workers in a position to work for themselves. In her book, What’s Next? Follow Your Passion and Find Your Dream Job, Kerry Hannon offers the following advice on finding a successful encore career:
Does It Pay To Go Back to School?If you have determined that upgrading your skills is an essential step toward beginning an encore career, you will want to choose wisely. Although you have decades of workplace experience, you have fewer years in which to undertake lengthy (and often costly) additional schooling. Set your sights on finding a career in a growing field that will continue to add jobs and offer pay that will justify the cost of your education. You don’t necessarily have to pursue a college degree to train for a new career. Consider taking online and in-person classes and workshops to fill the knowledge gap or to earn a certification or credential. Look at your local community college’s continuing education offerings as well as trade groups/industry associations that offer coursework leading to certification. Your Résumé and Job SearchIt’s quite possible you never had a résumé — or the one you do have might not be up to date. Career document standards and formats have changed significantly, and not adhering to these changes may raise red flags about your age. Does the content and format of your résumé shout, “I’m old and want to retire,” or “I’m alive, have a lot to offer, and am ready to take on new challenges.” Whether you hire an expert to write your résumé (highly recommended) or DIY, the following are a few recommendations for writing your résumé: Pay attention to 21st-century standards for résumé content and design:
Show your reader that you embrace technology:
Prove that you are committed to continuous learning:
Prepare for interviews by researching the company before the interview. Visit their website and learn more about their products and services, their customers and clients, and their culture and the people who work there. Look through their social media accounts (LinkedIn and Facebook) and see if you are connected to someone who works there — or who has worked there — who can provide you with some insight into the company. Anticipate interview questions about your age and future goals and prepare appropriate responses. Do a practice run by interviewing for jobs or companies for which you may be overqualified or that are too long of a commute. If you start by interviewing with employers at the top of your list, you may have too much riding on it to manage your emotions well. Consider starting on a project basis or as a consultant. This often gives you a leg up on younger workers who are often unable to accept these kinds of employment positions — and these can often lead to full-time work. Another way to get your foot in the door is by volunteering with a charity or nonprofit. This often leads to employment down the road with an employer who recognizes your knowledge and skills and appreciates your work ethic. Additional ResourcesCoGenerate.org provides access to multiple programs for “encore jobseekers,” including The Encore Fellowship and others. Coming of Age helps people 50+ explore their future as well as connect and contribute through opportunities — both paid and unpaid — in their communities and provides training to nonprofits. Life Planning Network is a community of professionals and organizations from diverse disciplines dedicated to helping people navigate the second half of life. New Solutions connects professionals, age 55+, with part-time and full-time opportunities throughout the country by providing skilled and experienced workers to government agencies. Retirement Jobs features jobs for people over 50 (including volunteer opportunities). Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). The National Council on Aging (NCOA) manages 27 SCSEP offices under a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. SCSEP helps adults aged 55+ return to or remain active in the workforce by providing job training, job search services, and on-the-job experience. Final ThoughtsThe traditional three-stage life cycle comprised of full-time education, full-time work, and full-time retirement is rapidly fading, and in its place is a unique workforce model where professionals from five generations work side-by-side. And, as changes continue, more and more encore career opportunities will unfold, and age stereotypes and discrimination will increasingly become outdated. You May Also Like: About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing effective resumes. I've got good news for you. It's still possible to land the job you've always wanted. The job that doesn't feel like a job. You can turn your dream into a reality. But it won't just happen. It takes more than just luck and wishful thinking to secure your ideal job. It requires a strategic approach and hard work. In this guide, we'll outline the steps you need to take to find your dream job and start living your career dreams. Self-Discovery: Unveiling Your DreamBefore we talk about practical steps to finding your dream job, we need to talk about the importance of self-discovery. After all, you can't secure your dream job if you're not clear on what your dream job is. What Are Your Values? Your dream job will allow you to work and live by your deeply held values. It will align with what truly matters to you. So, take some time to think about what your core values are. When you have clarity on your values, you can begin to think about what kinds of jobs will allow you to live in alignment with those values. What Are Your Passions? In addition to knowing your values, it's also essential to have clarity on your passions. A passion is something you love doing. It's important to note that passions can change and evolve. What you were passionate about in your 20s may not be the same as what you're passionate about in your 40s. So, it's essential to continually reassess and reflect on what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. If you're not clear on how to find your passions, ask those around you. Ask your friends, family, and coworkers what they think you're passionate about. How Do Your Passions Align with Your Career? If you want to find your dream job, it's important to think beyond job titles and consider how your passions can be translated into work. It's never too late to discover and pursue your passions. Some of the most successful people in the world have found their calling later in life. The point is that it's never too late to find (or create) your dream job. With the right mindset and determination, you can make a career change at any age. When you're doing work that aligns with your passions, it doesn't feel like a chore or a burden. Instead, it becomes an enjoyable and rewarding experience. What Is Your Ideal Work Environment? You need to have clarity regarding the type of work environment where you will thrive. Your personality will play a big part in determining the best work environment for you. You need to know yourself well to know what kind of work environment is best for you. Additionally, consider the company culture and values. Do they align with your values and beliefs? This can greatly impact your overall job satisfaction and sense of purpose in your work. Building Your Skillset: The Tools You NeedNow that we've discussed finding your passions and values, we need to talk about developing the skills that are going to help you find your dream job. Assessing Your Current Skill Set The starting place in developing the skills for your dream job is doing an honest assessment of where you currently are. You need to determine how big the gap is between your current skill set and the skill set required to do your dream job. Take time to list out all your current skills related to your job. Next, list out the skills required to do your dream job. If you don't know what is required to do your dream job, that's your starting place. Create a Learning Path Once you've determined the skills needed for your dream job, it's time to create a learning path. This is a plan that outlines how you will acquire the necessary skills and knowledge. You may need to get creative when building your learning path. Going back to school to get a formal degree may not be an option for you. If this is the case, you'll need to explore alternative options that will still help you acquire the necessary skills. The good news is that you have an incredible number of learning options at your disposal. You're not limited to formal schooling. For example, you can fast-track your career through Google Career Certificates for in-demand skills if it interests you. Build Relevant Experience In addition to creating a learning path for yourself, you also should look to build relevant experience wherever possible. While it may not be totally necessary to build prior experience before you apply for your dream job, it will certainly improve your chances of landing the job. Find a Mentor One of the best things you can do in your job search is find a mentor. A mentor is someone who has experience and knowledge in your desired field. Think of a mentor as a trusted guide who has already walked the steps you're trying to walk and can help you stay on the right path. Network Like a Pro One of the best ways to find job opportunities is through networking. There are simple networking ideas to find a new job. Through networking, you can build strong relationships with people in industries relevant to your dream job. When networking, remember to try to give as much as you take. In other words, don't just ask for favors, but also offer your help and support to others. Craft Your Application: Standing Out from the CrowdIt's time to talk about applying for your dream job. Once you're ready to apply, it's important to ensure your resume stands out. Learn how to make your resume stand out. This means crafting a strong resume and cover letter. Resume Your resume is essentially a snapshot of your professional experience, skills, and accomplishments. It should be easy to read, concise, and tailored to the specific job you're applying for. Learn how to customize your resume. You should take the time to review the job posting and highlight skills or experiences that align with what the employer is looking for. This shows that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the position. If you have a mentor, ask them to review your application and provide feedback. Mentors can offer valuable insights and help you improve your resume. Don't be afraid to showcase your personality a bit. While you need to be reasonable and professional, it's also important to let your personality shine through. Cover Letter Your cover letter should go beyond simply summarizing your resume. The cover letter is your chance to tell a story about why you're the perfect fit for the role and the company. It's easy to learn how to write a cover letter. Start with a strong opening that highlights a relevant achievement, a unique skill, or your enthusiasm for the company's mission. Then, use the body of the cover letter to showcase your qualifications and experiences that make you a strong candidate. Conclude your cover letter by reiterating your interest in the position and taking the next step. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration, and express your eagerness to learn more about the opportunity. Nailing the Interview: Making a Great ImpressionDon't go into your interview blind. There are several things you can do to improve your interview skills and enhance your chances of landing your dream job. It's important to know how to sell yourself in an interview. Research the Company and the Role Start by doing some in-depth research on both the company and the role. You want to go to an interview being relatively familiar with the core values of the company as well as the basics of the job you're applying for. You should also be prepared to discuss and negotiate your salary during the interview process. Do your research and know what you're worth. However, keep in mind that other factors such as benefits, company culture, and growth opportunities should also be considered when evaluating a job offer. Practice Common Interview Questions Many common questions are often asked in interviews regardless of the industry or job role. It helps to review the top 50 most common interview questions. It's important to practice your answers to these and other common questions. This will help you feel more confident and comfortable during the actual interview and also ensure that your responses are well thought out and articulate. Prepare Your Questions In addition to readying yourself to answer questions, you should also prepare questions of your own to ask the interviewer. Doing so allows you to demonstrate your interest in and knowledge of the job being offered. Most interviewers will give you an opportunity to ask questions at the end of an interview. You should be prepared and know how to answer "Do you have any questions?" in an interview. Use Confident Body Language During the interview, pay attention to your body language. Your body language communicates as much, if not more, than the words you say. Sit up straight, make eye contact, and avoid fidgeting. Avoid negative body language like crossing your arms which indicates that you're closed off to the interviewer. Instead, keep your arms comfortably at your sides or use them to gesture while speaking. Follow Up After the Interview Make sure to send a thank-you email or note to your interviewer within 24 hours of the interview. This not only shows your appreciation for their time but also keeps you fresh in their mind. In the email, reiterate your interest in the position and mention any key points from the interview that stood out to you. After sending your thank you note, you should know when to follow up after the interview. That's something you can always ask at the end of an interview: "By when should I follow up with you?" More often than not, interviewers will give you a timeframe, like in a week. Be Persistent!There's a good chance that your search for your dream job will not go flawlessly. You may have interviews that don't go so well. Don't let these setbacks discourage you. Instead, use them as learning experiences and keep moving forward. Keep networking, applying for jobs, and honing your skills. Your persistence will pay off in the end. You may also like: Changing Job – A Significant Life Transition https://www.market-connections.net/blog/changing-jobs-a-significant-life-transition Handling Rejection in Your Job Search: https://www.market-connections.net/blog/handling-rejection-in-your-job-search 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Job Hunting: https://www.market-connections.net/blog/handling-rejection-in-your-job-search Network Your Way to Your Next Job: https://www.market-connections.net/blog/network-your-way-to-your-next-job About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing effective resumes. |
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AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. Archives
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