In Canada and around the world, we are experiencing a rocky economic situation which might change the way you approach your job search. Unfortunately even oil-rich Alberta is not immune. So, while Sherwood Park is flooded with laid off oil workers and newspapers report an imminent recession, what can you do to make sure you don’t find yourself unemployed for an extended period?
Get back to basics
Make sure your resume is head and shoulders above the rest. The stakes are higher so you have to stand out. When you list as a job seeker on Sherwood Park Jobs, you have the opportunity to enter your details into our system which formats them into a well-organized, visually pleasing resume template for employers to view. You can also copy & paste this template once it’s finished into your favourite word processor and make changes or print if you are applying for jobs outside of the site. Try to keep your resume short and to the point but make sure you provide all necessary information. It is frustrating for employers to be interested in you and then find you haven’t taken the time to prepare a good resume
Network
Chances are, you’ve been hired before because you knew someone who worked for the company. You likely have people around you now that can help with your search. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or contacts. If you can work up the guts to talk to people about your search, they’ll know you are serious and be more willing to recommend you to colleagues and friends. Networking can be a huge help to your job search but it can also be nerve-wracking. Keep in mind that everyone has to start somewhere and it won’t be so scary. Make a good impression on everyone you meet; you never know who might be the key to your next great job.
Keep your expectations in check
That dream salary that might have been available to you this time last year might not be on the cards now. Many companies are tightening the purse strings, and for the next little while, this will have an effect on the kind of wage you can expect. Be realistic and fair, and know that the lower your salary requirements, the more opportunities open to you
Be open to alternatives
You may be looking for employment in a field that’s just not viable right now. Be open-minded and aware of other related industries or positions with companies which could lead to your ideal position down the road. Just because you have been doing the same type of work for a number of years doesn’t mean you have to continue. Think creatively - what skills and experience could you adapt to other positions? You may find a job you never realized you would enjoy.
Do your research
When you apply to work with a company, make sure you know who they are and what they do. A search on Google can give you some information to go on so that when you get an interview, you can show the employer that you are genuinely interested in the job and are serious about the position. You could also set up a Google Alert for your chosen company or industry, so that you can keep up to date with the latest news.
Volunteer
Non-Profits and charity organizations are always looking for extra helping hands. Help out a cause you care about and it could open doors for you. Volunteer positions look great on your resume too
Follow up
Most job seekers miss this step in their job hunt. If you apply for a job, follow up a couple of weeks later with a phone call to make sure your application was received. Don’t be pushy, just check in and see if they need any more information from you. That way, they will be reminded of you and likely make a point to have a look at your application.
Stay positive
It might take a while but your job search will pay off. Be patient and stay positive. Go into every interview with your head high and a friendly personality and you’ll have a great job in no time!