A Good Time To Volunteer

Judging by what I hear in the news and other sources there are upwards to 50% of employees who are unhappy with their job. During this time of high unemployment there’s probably a high number of people that were laid off from jobs they were unhappy with anyway. If you are in that number, this could be a great opportunity to transition into your dream career. I know that it may not be easy because of lack of experience. Well…here’s a helpful tip! Search for companies in the career field that you enjoy and volunteer as an apprentice. Now…before you yell “Volunteer? I have bills to pay!“, know that volunteering can be the gateway to opportunity. Seriously…think about it. It can provide on the job training for the field that you’ve always wanted to be a part of. This translates into the experience that you’ll need. It offers excellent networking opportunities with company employees and management. It also places you in an excellent position to know when the company is hiring, which by the way, can result in employment and a successful career transfer.

For those who are currently implementing this strategy, this blog can serve as confirmation that it’s a great idea and you‘re on the right track. Those who haven’t thought about it…try it! It can lead to something good. Also, when using this strategy you are going to have to exercise patience because it can take time to produce results. This strategy can produce the best results when you work as if you’re getting paid to work. I encourage you to show up on time and take the scheduled breaks and lunch at the proper time. Also, demonstrate that you can complete the assignment/project correctly and on time. These are the same qualities that get you noticed and promoted in a paid position.

A good time to implement a strategy like this is while you’re receiving unemployment benefits. At least you are receiving some income while you’re in job transition. However, I would advise you to check with your unemployment agent first to make sure you are operating within the unemployment benefits rules and guidelines.

Best wishes to finding a job that will put a smile back on your face!!

Millicent

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Follow up is important

During the time of increased competition for jobs, job hunters keep searching don’t give up. I encourage you to keep going!

An effective tip: Follow up!

Don’t forget to follow up with a simple “Thank you” card or email after the interview. I know some of you may be saying, “yeah been there done that.” But… you’d be surprised at how narrow the playing field becomes just by following up. The number of people that follow up after the interview is far less than the number of people that are interviewed. Something as simple as a follow up can set you apart from the pack. It doesn’t take much time to do it. Statistics has it that upwards to 85%- 90% of job applicants do not follow up with a thank you after the interview. Wow! Amazing! So yes, you may hear that there are 15 maybe 20 people (or more) interviewing for the position, but out of that number how many of the candidates are following up? Set yourself apart and narrow the competition by following up with a thank you.

follow up thank you from the prospect always caught my attention. If that candidate did not make the cut, a follow up thank you got them into the revisit stack, a re-evaluation and in many cases a second interview. Following up says a lot and taking the time to do so can set you apart and demonstrate initiative and desire for the position. If a follow up caused me to rethink an applicant, I’m sure there are many others out there that have done the same!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
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