Imagine someone refusing to date you because you’re too kind and beautiful. Yet, when you’re job hunting, you may run into employers who tell you that you’re overqualified for the position.
 
How can you keep your impressive credentials and extensive experience from working against you? Follow these steps designed to help overqualified candidates land a job offer.

Hiring managers may toss your resume as soon as they see your executive titles or advanced degree. Be proactive about addressing common concerns, starting with your first contact.
 
These strategies will help you land an interview: 
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• Research openings. Be selective about where you apply. Look for companies with a track record of hiring employees with future needs in mind. If possible, target companies and positions where you’re likely to find engaging work.​
  

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• Pick a reason. There are many reasons for considering a somewhat junior position. Maybe you’re relocating or perhaps you are leaving a declining industry. In any case, focus on your primary motivation and why it makes you a good match for your new employer.
  

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• Edit your resume. You can be authentic while choosing which areas of your background to highlight or downplay. Simplify your language and omit irrelevant certifications and awards.  Learn the simple strategies that will make your resume stand out.

• Suggest staying power. Many HR departments will wonder how long you’ll stick around before finding a more attractive opportunity. Assure them that they’re not wasting their resources. Spell out your desire for a position with long term possibilities.

• Compromise on compensation. Similarly, there may be concerns about salary negotiations and your requirements. Let them know that you’re flexible, even if that means taking a significant cut compared to your previous earnings.

• Consult your network. Do you have contacts who are familiar with the organization or prominent in the industry? Your network may be willing to give you valuable information and recommend you as a candidate worth hiring.​​

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Congratulations on getting this far in the process. Now, you can sell yourself to your potential employer, so they’ll see your capabilities as an asset rather than an obstacle.
 
Try these techniques: 
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• Show enthusiasm. Being arrogant or demanding will make a poor impression. Let employers know that you’re excited about the possibility of working with them and eager to make a genuine contribution.

 

• Describe tasks. Be specific when you’re discussing your past responsibilities and how they correspond to your new role. Show employers that you understand their expectations and feel comfortable with them.

 

• Explore growth potential. Some companies may be open to upgrading a position for a candidate who can take on additional responsibilities. Listen to their needs so you can propose appropriate solutions. Maybe you can generate additional income or train and mentor other team members.

 

• Reassure rivals. What if your new boss has less experience than you or seems to view you as unwelcome competition? Tell stories that show you value learning from others and can take direction.

 

• Try it out. Many companies want a new hire to stay on the payroll so they can recoup their investment. However, there are also situations where a shorter time frame may be mutually beneficial. You might work on one project on a contract basis and see where the relationship goes from there.

 

• Stay positive. Job hunting is often filled with rejections, whether you’re overqualified or struggling to gain experience. Seek support from family, friends, and job boards. Take care of your mental and physical health. Remember that your efforts will pay off if you persevere.​

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Be prepared to dispel misperceptions and doubts when an employer says you’re overqualified. Find a company that will appreciate your potential and give you the opportunity to take on new challenges.

If you work in an environment where people are regularly coming and going for a variety of reasons, it can be hard to pinpoint when it’s your time to leave. Are you being dramatic, or is it really time to pack up and find a new place to put down roots? You spend a lot of time at work, so you should be somewhere that works for you. Keep reading for 8 reasons that you should change your job.
 
1. You Aren’t Learning
Continuing education is a fundamental part of life. Your work should be teaching you daily. About your job, the world, or really anything. If you aren’t learning new things at work, then it might be time to find a new job. It’s time to leave your comfort zone.
 
2. You Don’t Feel Satisfied with Your Contributions
No longer feeling like you are contributing or making worthwhile contributions at work can leave you feeling unworthy or, like your position in the company doesn’t matter. Seek out a work environment that you can contribute to. No need to feel trapped in your circumstances.
 
3. You Aren’t Enjoying Your Work
Every day isn’t going to be a cakewalk, but you should still generally enjoy your work and the people that you work with. Feuding coworkers don’t help the situation either..
 
4. You Don’t Feel Valued
You should feel valued by your company, supervisor, and coworkers. That is a basic human necessity that you deserve.
 
5. You Have Negative Feelings Regularly
If the “Sunday Scaries” is a nightly occurrence, and your drive to work is rife with distress, considering looking for a job that at least brings platonic emotions.
 
6. Your Health is Suffering
If your work is negatively affecting your physical and/or mental health, then take that as a clear and loud sign that you need to go elsewhere. You can’t work if you’re dead, and everyone can be replaced.
 
7. You’ve Topped Out
Look around your office. If there is nowhere else to go and you have reached your plateau, then it is time to look for a position that will either be a move up or will allow for more advancement.
 
8. Your Environment is Toxic
Overbearing taskmasters, constant turmoil, and lack of a work/life balance are clear signs that you are working in a toxic environment. However, many other forms of toxic work environments are not as easily picked out. Think carefully about what you want out of your work culture and what you are actually getting.
 
Sometimes it is evident when you need to find a new job. However, for many, it can be a series of small and seemingly minuscule events and feelings that lead to finding new work. Think about your work life and personal life, and consider if a change is in need.

Here is a list of more than 60 places where you can find and apply for remote jobs. If you’re trying to start a freelance career or hoping to find a remote job, these websites are a great place to start looking.

Some of these sites are free, while others are paid membership sites.

Recommended posts:

For certain kinds of jobs, companies pay third parties (recruiters or employment agencies) to screen and recommend potential employees.
 
These jobs usually fall into three areas:

• Positions paying under $30,000 a year (usually administrative jobs) — these are usually filled by employment agencies on a temp or temp-to-hire basis.
• Specialized positions where a closely-defined skill set is desired (for example, information technology jobs).
• Executive positions in excess of $85,000. Many of these jobs are not usually advertised.

 
In exchange for finding candidates, screening them, and recommending the “best fits,” an employer will pay a fee that is negotiated from about 10% up to 25% of an employee’s base salary for the first year to the recruiter or search firm (employment agency), upon a successful hire.
 
The most important thing to recognize about working with recruiters is that they work for the hiring company, not for you. They only get paid if they make a successful placement. Because you’re not paying for the service, sending a résumé to one of these companies is a good idea, but it won’t always result in success — or even a return phone call. They are not obligated to call you back, if your résumé does not match their search criteria. In that case, they may keep your résumé in their database; or not.
 
You can find recruiters in the phone book (under “Employment Agencies”) or online. Use Google to search: Recruiter and [city name] and [job title].
 
Or look in the newspaper classifieds or your industry trade journal for recruiting firms advertising for candidates in your field. You can also make contact with recruiters or employment agencies at job fairs or through LinkedIn.
 
Remember, the employer pays the recruiter fee, so you should never be asked to pay a fee to work with a recruiter. Don’t be fooled by people claiming to be recruiters who ask you to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars to work with them.
 
It’s fine to work with multiple recruiters. The more recruiter contacts you have, the larger your network, and the greater the number of opportunities that will present themselves. Recruiter relationships are generally not exclusive. Start with 2-3 and expand your contacts if you’re not getting results. But be honest if you’re asked who else you are working with.
 
There are also variations of the employment agency you may come across. For example, if you are employed in a union trade, your union hall may function as an employment agency, offering connections to union jobs. And if you are between jobs and want to be hired as a day laborer, there are certain employment agencies that specialize in extremely short-term positions (usually one day, or a few days at a time).
 
And, don’t discount the resources offered by CareerOneStop (https://www.careeronestop.org/) or  (https://www.usa.gov/job-search). Local or state employment agencies can also help connect you to employers in your area.

Networking remains one of the best job search strategies you can use to find your next job — or your dream job — but it’s probably the least understood method. Many jobseekers think networking means alerting the people you know that you want a new job. But it’s more than that. Your network is most valuable when you can ask for help in identifying job leads, obtaining information, getting advice, and/or making referrals. For example, if you want to work at a specific company, ask people in your network if they know anyone who currently works for — or used to work for — “Company X.” Then, ask for an introduction to that person, and ask them about the company, culture, and hiring practices.
 
It’s important to actively develop and cultivate your network. This can include: friends, relatives, parents of children’s friends, parents of your friends, relatives of your friends, club members, cousins, neighbors, your doctor, financial advisor, attorney, current and previous co-workers and managers, suppliers, professional association contacts, clients, and community contacts (civic leaders, clergy, etc.).
 
Here are some more opportunities to develop your network:

• Attend networking events (for example, those hosted by your professional organization, Chamber of Commerce, tip groups, etc.). You can also network while you’re attending sports, school, or cultural events.
• Work as a volunteer. For example, serve on the Membership Committee of your industry association. Getting involved in any charitable organization can be beneficial.
• Participate in online communities. This can be a social networking site — like LinkedIn or Facebook — or an alumni site or your trade association’s website (which might have a message board or email list to connect members). Be a giver — your willingness to help others will raise your professional profile and make others more willing to help you in return.
• Contact your alumni groups. Your college or university should have an alumni association (often with a directory of members) that can be useful. You can mine the directory for contacts in your field, even if they didn’t graduate in the same year as you. Your common interest in cheering for “The Bears” connects you! And look for connections on LinkedIn. Many universities maintain alumni-only Groups on LinkedIn.
• Join your professional association — but don’t just send in your dues…get involved! As mentioned before, the Membership Committee is often looking for help, but the Program Committee (that plans the continuing education events and networking programs) or the Finance Committee (the one that helps line up sponsors — i.e., influential employers in the industry) can also be good choices.
• Your colleagues can be a tremendous resource. Contact them and ask for their help with identifying contact names and numbers, generating ideas about where your skills might be most valuable, and learning more about company culture. Be sure to ask if you can use their name to “get in the door” with their contacts.

 
The single biggest mistake most jobseekers make is not asking for help from their network. People want to help you — so let them!

Tap into the so-called “hidden job market” by using the direct contact job search method. Remember: Companies hire people to solve their problems.
In her book “Résumé Magic,” author Susan Britton Whitcomb suggests jobseekers target what she calls “employer buying motivators.” These include the company’s desire to:

• Make money
• Save money
• Save time
• Make work easier
• Solve a specific problem
• Be more competitive
• Build relationships / an image
• Expand business
• Attract new customers
• Retain existing customers

Use the above “employer buying motivators” list to identify the specific ways you can help a prospective employer — and then don’t wait for a help wanted ad to be posted to offer your services. How do you do this? Use the following four methods for ideas:

• Online. Research trends and companies online. Identify key problems from executive speeches, reports, or profiles — or read their news releases on their website. A good source of information is Vault.com (www.vault.com). You can also identify potential employers using the online Yellow Pages. Are you a teacher? Every school in the area will be listed. The same is true if you want to work for a plumbing company, law firm, counseling office, veterinarian, or financial services firm. You can also make connections with hiring managers through LinkedIn.
• Newspaper. Identifying companies that are likely employers through their ads, profiles about them, or job listings that indicate a need for your expertise. Look at companies that are advertising openings to see what kinds of companies hire for the type of job you’re interested in. (For example, a company that is hiring a lot of production workers will likely need additional managers. If you’re looking for a Customer Service Supervisor job, look for a company that is hiring lots of customer service representatives.)
• Recruiters/Employment Services. This is the perfect example of a direct contact. (“Hello, I don’t know if one of your client companies currently needs someone with my skills, but here is what I have to offer…”)
• Networking. It happens all the time. Someone in your network says, “You know what? You should talk to John Jones at XYZ Company. They could use someone like you.”

 
It’s estimated that anywhere from 30 to 75 percent of jobs are not advertised. How are these positions being filled? Through networking and direct contact. How do you make direct contact? Call, use your network for an introduction, send an email, or write a targeted cover letter and send it with your résumé. You can also use résumé distribution services — like ResumeSpider or ResumeRabbit — to send unsolicited résumés to targeted contacts.
 
But the real key to success is following-up. When using direct contact, persistence is the key!
 
Do your homework about companies you are interested in. Always research the company. The basic information you need is: Who to direct your résumé to within the company and whether the company has jobs (or job possibilities) that match your area of interest, education, and/or expertise. You can’t just send a general letter to “HR” or one addressed to “President, ABC Company.” You have to send it to a person. The best people to contact are managers and executives.
 
Every unsolicited résumé you send should be accompanied by a personalized, targeted cover letter. You are simply “spamming” potential employers when you mass mail 10, 20, or 100 résumés without researching them individually and customizing a cover letter. Even if you have the most creative résumé, without supporting documentation, you’re probably wasting your time.
 
Instead, take the time to develop a customized cover letter listing how your specific skills and attributes can be an asset to the company.
 
Next, make sure you keep a record of the résumés you’ve sent, using a follow-up log. When you send out a résumé, mention what your next step is — for example, “I will be contacting you within the week.” Make a note in your calendar and then follow-up as promised. When you’re “spamming” employers, you lose the ability to closely follow-up on the résumés you’ve sent. Ten résumés and cover letters that you follow-up on are better than 100 résumés with no follow-up.
 
Follow-up on letters by making a phone call. If you call and don’t get a response, send an email. Leverage your network to get personal introductions. Your efforts will yield interviews. You can dramatically increase your chances of being interviewed and receiving a job offer by following-up with both your network and the person with the power to hire you in an effort to positively influence the selection process.

In your job search, you shouldn’t rule out any job search tactic — just consider how effective it is, and spend more of your time on high-impact tactics like networking and direct contact.

​Chances are you or a coworker will face the question of returning to work after cancer treatment. Cancer now affects 1 in 2 women and 1 in 3 men, while the survival rate for many cancers is increasing. 
 
While the risk of cancer increases with age, it also affects many younger adults still in the workplace. An estimated 46% of patients diagnosed with cancer are between the ages of 20 and 64. 
 
Surveys find that most cancer survivors who return to work say that it’s beneficial for their recovery. In addition to needing the income, you may enjoy using your skills and maintaining personal relationships.
 
For some cancer survivors, it’s gratifying just to have experiences apart from their medical condition.
 
Your individual needs will depend on many factors, including your specific diagnosis.
 
Use these suggestions to help you deal with health and career issues if you’re considering going back to work after cancer treatment.

1. Follow up. It’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for aftercare. Let your doctor’s office know if you need to arrange appointments and medications in a way that will have the least impact on your job.

1. Manage stress. Some cancer patients experience depression and anxiety, in addition to the usual job-related stress. Find relaxation practices that work for you like meditation and physical exercise.

1. Seek support. Be willing to accept assistance. Tell your family, friends, and coworkers what you need. Reach out to other cancer patients or call your local hospital to find a support group near you. The American Cancer Society may be a great place to start. There are many other resources available.

 

1. Understand your rights. There are several government programs and policies that may help you make the transition back to work, including the Americans with Disability Act and the Family Medical Leave Act. Ask your HR Department or contact a social worker or advocacy group for more information.

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1. Guard your privacy. You also have the right to keep your medical information confidential if you wish. Many employers are supportive, but you may sometimes face discrimination. Learning the basics about employment laws may help you feel a little more empowered. Let your doctor know if you want to avoid any reference to cancer when they fill out forms from your employer.

1. Stay in touch. Returning to the office will be easier if you can find ways to stay involved during your treatment. If you have been out of touch, it may help to reconnect with your network. Also, start reading your industry’s publications if they apply to your profession. Maybe you have an office buddy you can call occasionally.

1. Prepare for questions. You may find that some colleagues are eager to welcome you back while others seem uncomfortable. Rehearse what you want to say about your condition or your time away, so you’ll be ready with a response that works for you.

 

1. Reduce your hours. Part-time work is one of the simplest ways to transition back gradually. Many cancer patients experience fatigue, so respect your limits.

 

1. Additional time off, post cancer treatment. If you need to take time off for additional treatment or manage your symptoms, after you have returned to work (post cancer treatments), the Family and Medical Leave Act protects your job. Employees with serious illness are allowed by law to take up to 12 weeks off (all at once or spread out over time) and/or work part-time for a limited time.

 

1. Ask for accommodations. Evaluate your workspace and usual tasks. Talk with your employer about accommodations and/or modifications that can help you to do your job. For example, you might need to keep your office scent-free to avoid triggering nausea. 

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1. things down. Some of your symptoms may have more to do with the side effects of your treatment rather than the cancer itself. If chemotherapy affects your concentration, make written notes to remind you of any details you might forget.

 

1. Change jobs. You may still be able to work even if your current position poses difficulties for your recovery. Research other fields or apply for jobs with less demanding responsibilities. You may even want to consider working remote jobs.

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• Applying for a new job and your privacy. If you apply for a new job, you are not legally obligated to reveal your cancer history unless it directly impacts the work you will be doing

​With skillful communication and planning, you may be able to continue working after your cancer treatment. Talk with your doctor to ensure that you’re well enough to do your job and work with your employer to make any necessary adjustments.

A government job is always a great addition to your resume and your career. The government offers a large variety of career options including thousands of jobs. In fact, the government is one of the largest employers nationwide.

The list below can help you navigate through various available opportunities within the government. Some of these sites have job listings, others help with guidance. They provide information about jobs or job searching within The United States government.

Government Jobs; Government Work; Government Employment; Politics jobs; Federal Government Jobs; US Government Jobs; DC Government Jobs.
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​Here is a list of 20 places where you can find and apply for remote jobs. If you’re trying to start a freelance career or  hoping to nail down a remote job, these websites are a great place to start looking.
 
Some of these sites are free, while others are paid membership sites.

You may have heard the term “the hidden job market.” What is it, and how do jobseekers get access to it? The “hidden job market” is a phrase that describes job openings that are not publicly advertised. 

• The cost of advertising an open position can be substantial.
• They don’t want to be overwhelmed with applications.
• A new role is being created and they are unsure of the qualifications of the ideal employee.
• They are replacing an existing employee (who doesn’t know they are being replaced).

 
Most of these job opportunities are accessed through referrals from current employees of the company. It’s estimated that 60-80 percent of jobs are found through professional networking. While not all of the jobs found through professional networking are accessing the hidden job market (after all, your friends/family/acquaintance network can help you access interviews for advertised opportunities too), almost all candidates who get interviews for unadvertised jobs do so through networking.
 
Current employees can be an excellent source of candidates. Particularly if the company has a strong workplace culture, having existing employees identify prospective candidates can help ensure solid candidates are encouraged to apply. Some companies even reward employees — with cash or gift cards — for recommending a candidate who is eventually hired.
 
Employee referrals provide an advantage for the jobseeker too. Employee recommendations can carry great weight. Plus, there is less competition for job opportunities accessed through the hidden job market than for openly advertised opportunities.
 
Being referred by a current employee may also mean that your application is set apart from the typical internal processes that most jobseekers have to navigate — such as an applicant tracking system for online applications.
 
Recruiters are another source of unadvertised positions. An employer may choose to work with a recruiter to fill a job rather than advertise it publicly. The recruiter sources job candidates, screens prospective hires, and sends the hiring manager a handful of handpicked candidates. This saves the company time and money. In many cases, when working with a third-party recruiter, the company only pays the recruiter if a candidate is hired, and only if he or she stays for a specified period of time (say, six months).
 
So how do you tap into the hidden job market? Because opportunities are filled both through employee referrals and recruiting, you will want to cover both bases.
 
Accessing the hidden job market works best when you have a clear target in mind — either a specific job title or, even better, a specific list of companies you’d like to work for.
 
There are basically three ways to access the hidden job market:

• Connect with someone at the company through your network (either an employee who can refer you or a hiring manager or a recruiter who works for the company).
• Contact the company directly about exploring unadvertised opportunities.
• Be visible enough in your industry or field to be contacted by a prospective employer.

• Let your network know you are looking for a new position. While this can be difficult if you are conducting a confidential job search, it’s important that the people you know think of you when an opening comes up.

• Following the advice of author Harvey Mackey, “Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty.” Having a large network of contacts pays off when it’s time to look for a new job — particularly when you want to tap into the hidden job market. Keep in touch with your former colleagues and bosses. Build your LinkedIn network by connecting with people in your field — but also by adding folks you know from everyday life — the other parents you sit with at your child’s karate dojo, the members of your recreational softball team, your neighbors, etc. All of these can potentially help you tap into the hidden job market.

• Help others. “Give to get.” Zig Ziglar famously said, “You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” Keep your ears open about unadvertised openings and help connect those in your network to these opportunities. This type of assistance is often reciprocated. Cultivate relationships with peers in the industry. These connections at other companies can pay off.

• If there is a particular employer you are interested in working for, consider approaching the company directly. When approaching a target employer directly, research the hiring manager and see if there is a mutual connection you can approach to make the introduction. Focus on expanding your network until you connect with someone who works there. Ask him or her to keep you in mind for unadvertised opportunities — or even pass along your résumé right away, even if there isn’t currently an opening.

 
While you are logged into your LinkedIn account, go to the company page and see if you have any existing connections with current or former employees:
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• Identify companies in growth mode. Read your local business journal or the Business section of your local newspaper to find out which companies are growing. You’ll find announcements of new contracts, large office leases, and similar news in local publications or by setting up a targeted Google News alert.

• Look on LinkedIn for recruiters who work at your target employer. Some companies recruit primarily through in-house recruiters (recruiters who are company employees). Connecting with these individuals can be an excellent way to access the hidden job market.

 
While you are logged into your LinkedIn account, do a search for recruiter + [company name]:

• Connect with 2-3 recruiters in your industry or specialty. You may even be able to find out if the company uses a specific outside recruiter or agency for its searches. (Your network may be able to help you find this information, or you can contact the company directly to ask.) Having these extra eyes and ears looking out for opportunities can be a valuable asset in your job search.

• Make it easy to be found. Another angle to accessing the hidden job market is being approached directly about an unadvertised opportunity. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and make yourself visible by participating in industry activities, speaking and writing (when possible), and positioning yourself as a thought leader.

• Be active on social media. Follow employers you are interested in and engage them thoughtfully — liking and commenting on status updates and participating in online conversations with the brand itself or key employees. Share articles and insights about your industry. Follow and interact with key influencers in the industry using social media.

• Join online groups in your industry. While LinkedIn Groups have diminished in influence over the years, they still remain a good way to connect with colleagues. Plus, being active in Groups can make you more visible to recruiters in your industry.

• Join other online groups. Industry groups are the most logical choice for growing your network, but really any online groups can help you connect with others who may be able to help in your job search. This can include groups focused on your hobbies and interests as well as school alumni groups (not just college, but high school too).

• Get involved in associations and activities in your industry. Participate in professional association activities and build rapport with colleagues. Attend conferences and industry events. These are an opportunity to meet hiring managers and decision-makers at your target companies. The wider your network, the more opportunities to access the hidden job market.

• Another source of networking connections may be your university’s alumni association. If you are looking for a connection at a target company, see if the alumni association knows of one, or peruse the bios of company employees or leadership and see if you have a school in common. Looking at a company’s profile on LinkedIn may also potentially help you find alumni connections.

 
Remember, exploring the hidden job market is just one possible way to connect with your dream job. It’s a strategy that can pay off handsomely, but will often take longer than simply identifying advertised openings and applying. However, you will likely find there is less competition for the job opportunity, and if you are using an “inside source” — either a current employee or an internal recruiter — your likelihood of landing an interview can be higher than seeking out a traditionally advertised opening.

• Make a list of all of your existing offline connections (your holiday card or Christmas card list can be a good source to start).
• Get more involved on LinkedIn. Focus on adding 2-3 new connections each week, including recruiters in your industry. Participate in Groups and like and comment on posts. This can take as little as 5-10 minutes each day.
• Write out a list of employers you’d like to work for. This is your target company list. Next, focus on identifying anyone you know who currently works for that company.
• Commit to reading the Business section of your local newspaper and any local business journals weekly to look for companies in hiring mode.
• Get involved — whether online or “in real life,” visibility is important. Engage with groups, organizations, and associations by volunteering and participating in activities and events.

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​Job hunting is always tough but the holiday season can require an even more strategic approach. These are some basic principles and concrete steps to take for making the most of the special opportunities that exist at this time of year.

• Recognize that people's schedules may be more irregular than usual. During the Holiday Season it's important to keep in mind that people may be out of the office more. Avoid becoming anxious just because your phone calls or emails fail to get returned promptly.

• Be gentle with yourself. For all the joy, the holidays can be an emotionally intense period under the best of circumstances. Take it easy on yourself when you're trying to cope with the financial and psychological impact of being unemployed. 

• Nourish your spirits. Devote some regular time to activities that help you feel better. It will make it easier to project a positive attitude that improves your chances for a getting a job offer. Learn how to give a great speech or hone your skills. Get plenty of physical exercise to help stay energized.

• Take a long-term perspective. It's common for job searches to take longer than usual these days. Set incremental goals so you can acknowledge the progress while you're waiting for a job offer.

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• Welcome the reduced competition. By continuing your job search towards the end of the year, you distinguish yourself from all those who may be tempted to take a hiatus. You might find that fewer applicants are coming forward for the openings that interest you.

• Network more. It's a great season for networking. Accept party invitations. Talk with more new people. A good lead can come from unexpected sources. Volunteer work is another way to meet new people and try out new experiences.

• Reestablish old connections. Send out cards and make some phone calls. Sending holiday greetings gives you a ready-made reason to get in touch without putting people off by asking about job prospects directly.

 

• Consider a temporary position. Many companies hire temporary help this time of year. It could be a great way to pick up some extra cash and expand your skills.

 

• Encourage gifts that will help your job search. If people ask you what you want for Christmas, volunteer that you appreciate anything to help with your job search. It could be something like a gift certificate for resume paper.

 

• Devote more time to research. If things slow down, use this extra time wisely. Go online or visit the library to research potential employers and industry trends.

 

• Update your resume. This may also be a good time to review your written materials like resumes and cover letters. Look for ways to tweak your content to highlight your accomplishments and the contribution you could make to a potential employer.

 

• Learn new skills. You may also want to focus on mastering some new skills. Public libraries often offer free computer courses or workshops with experts who can assist you with your plans to start a small business of your own.

 

• ​Make plans for the year ahead. Keep your hopes up by planning for the year ahead. Set monthly goals for your job search. Make contingency plans so you'll feel more secure. Visualize finding the career opportunity that you seek.

​It may feel especially unpleasant to be unemployed during the holidays when the rest of the world seems to be celebrating. Be kind to yourself to manage your emotions and relieve stress while you play an active role in building a better career future.

​As a result of the Gig Economy, the nature of work has also changed. Today, the number of freelancers or that of the self-employed is significantly higher than ever before. If this is your case, you may face obstacles if you ever try to get back into the corporate lifestyle.
 
As employers do recognize abilities such as decision-making, management, creativity, and more in a self-employed person, they also tend to fret and frown. They question other details such as business profitability or your coachability. In other words, will you be open to learn their ways and follow their rules? Will you be “coachable”?
 
As you think of updating your resume, you may want to implement these ideas throughout your job search efforts. Regardless of the length of your self-employment, the right attitude and some planning hacks will help you find the ideal job a little easier.

1. Prepare to answer questions. Prepare yourself to answer questions about why you want to work for a company or for someone else. Your answer can only be a “positive” response. Answer the question in a positive way. For example, you can briefly elaborate on the fact that you need a new challenge.
   
   
2. Be adaptable. Many employers or recruiters may wonder about whether you are set in your own ways as a self-employed person or if you will be coachable and trainable. When in an interview, do talk about your ability to adapt to changing demands and new or different ways of doing things.
   
   
3. Corporate culture. Here is another concern… Hiring managers may question whether or not you will fit-in their organization or team(s). Be sure to do your part well. Study the company, its mission, values, and culture. You will find that proper preparation will often remove obstacles from even surfacing.
   
   
4. Get recommendations. One of the best ways to find a new job is through referrals. A recommendation is still a very powerful tool and should not be underestimated.  Network with your clients for leads and ask them to have you in mind if they hear about any opportunities that may match your qualifications. You will be surprised at the leads that may come your way from those you did not expect.
   
   
5. Prepare Your Own Portfolio. Once you create your own portfolio (also called a brag book), it will be much easier to market your services instead of just responding to job advertisements. Which companies interest you the most? Send them your portfolio to market yourself better.

1. Expand your options. Some hiring managers will be more open to considering candidates with entrepreneurial backgrounds. If you encounter too much resistance, move on to a more welcoming climate.
   
   
2. Don’t underestimate start-ups. Many entrepreneurs will greatly appreciate your entrepreneurial endeavors. Chances are high they will also understand your situation very well. Find out who they are and grow alongside them.
   
   
3. Think long-term. In some cases, being self-employed may increase the time it takes you to find your next position. Maintain a positive attitude and surround yourself with supportive friends.
   
   

Give yourself credit for having the courage and creativity to run a business. As you re-enter the corporate world, look for employers who will appreciate your background and welcome the contribution you can make.