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How To Make a Lasting Impression When You’re Unemployed

Oct 1, 2024 | Personal Growth

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that job seekers in 2024 can expect an average wait of five long months before finding a job. In this highly competitive job market, how do you stand out and stay visible between jobs?

Refine your personal brand

Your brand sets you apart and defines your professional identity. Update your LinkedIn profile, curate your social media platforms, and maintain a professional blog, portfolio, or website. Ensure your public profiles reflect your skills, experience, and career goals.

Continue to learn and develop skills

Staying updated with industry-relevant trends, news, and skills shows proactivity and commitment to personal growth. Online certifications, part-time courses, and webinars expand your skill set and provide meaningful talking points in interviews.

Network strategically

Networking creates meaningful connections that could lead to opportunities. Attend industry meetups, seminars, and virtual events. Engage thoughtfully on professional forums like LinkedIn or industry-specific platforms.

Volunteer or freelance

Taking up volunteer roles or freelance projects can bolster your job application. It shows employers that you are eager to stay active and contribute to your community or industry despite your lack of formal employment. These experiences can also provide valuable references and expand your network.

Prepare thoroughly for job applications and interviews

Put your unwanted free time to work. Customize your resume and cover letter for each application to align with the job description. Prepare for interviews by thoroughly researching the company to understand the culture and how you fit into it.

Stay positive and resilient

Maintaining a positive outlook is crucial, as difficult as it may seem at times. Mental and emotional resilience plays a massive role in how you project yourself. Stay motivated by setting daily goals, seeking support from friends, peers, and career coaches, or joining job seeker groups where you can share experiences and strategies while giving and receiving much-needed support.

Periods of unemployment are challenging, but they are also opportunities to grow and emerge as a stronger, more dynamic candidate.

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Paul Bramson

Paul Bramson

Paul Bramson is renowned as a powerhouse on keynote stages and in training arenas. He is widely regarded as being one of the most impactful speakers, trainers and C-suite coaches in the world today. Paul is recognized as a leading authority and thought leader in the areas of communication, leadership and sales boasting media mentions in Forbes, Fast Company, Fortune, BuiltIn, Yahoo, and MSN. With an extensive 25-year tenure, Paul has continually ignited and empowered professionals, leaders, and teams across all echelons. His ability to captivate and engage audiences originates from an authentic zeal, unique aptitudes, and an unyielding dedication to professional and personal enhancement.