Maybe you decided to take some time off for personal reasons? Or maybe you were laid off during the pandemic? Either way, now it’s time to re-enter the workforce. Here’s how to prepare.
Tips for Re-Entering the Workforce
Have a Plan
Before you embark on your job-hunting journey, you need to know WHERE you want to go. Begin by asking yourself these important questions. What is my ideal role/company? How much would I like to be paid? Am I looking for full-time or part-time work? What hours/shifts would I prefer? When will I officially start my search? Am I willing to accept a good-enough offer, or should I wait for a best-case scenario? Addressing these issues ahead of time allows you to run a more focused and effective reentry into the workforce.
Brush Up Your Skills
Many employers worry people who have been out of the work will have out-of-date skills. Therefore, be prepared to show hiring managers what you’ve learned during your time off. You may have taken online classes, completed a certification course or volunteered in an area related to your field. These activities not only help you to stay relevant but also highlight your ongoing motivation and enthusiasm.
Update Your Resume
When you see an interesting job posting, you’ll want to be sure your resume is ready to go. So, before you launch your search, pull out your old document and brainstorm everything you’ve done since the last update. For the best results, you’ll want to customize your resume for each position for which you apply. However, having a standard document to work from will make the process faster and easier.
Practice for Interviews
Of course, you’ll need to be prepared for interviews too. Begin researching common interview questions. Then, rehearse your answers either with a friend or in front of a mirror. In addition, think about how to address your resume gap(s). Especially if you haven’t been employed for several months (or years), hiring managers are going to be looking for an explanation.
Partner with a Recruiter
Finding work can be tough. And if you haven’t searched for employment in a long time, it’s going to be even harder. But guess what? You don’t have to job hunt alone. Professional recruiters will help you find best-fit positions, review your resume and coach you through the interview process. Plus, since recruiters charge companies NOT candidates, you’ll receive all these services for free. Whether you’re struggling with your search or unsure where to start, this is a fantastic option to keep in mind.
Are You Ready to Re-enter the Workforce?
Connectology matches talented candidates with top manufacturing organizations throughout the upper Midwest. Our recruiters will guide you through the hiring process so you can get back to work faster. View our available openings and discover your next opportunity today!
