– Featured Publication from Softest Team (LinkedIn)
2020 has been tough regardless of whether you are a fresh graduate or a jobseeker having many years of experience. The coronavirus pandemic has got us all in a quite difficult situation. Looking for a new job has never been so difficult, moreover, rejections from them are becoming increasingly frequent too, as many organisations have been laying off employees in these unprecedentedly grim times.
Before the pandemic, the average rate for youth unemployment in the EU stood at 15 percent. In southern EU countries, some of the hardest hit by COVID-19, the figure stood at 30 percent.
With companies putting a hiring freeze, slashing salaries and pay cuts, it’s quite challenging for the candidates who are just out of college. Job seekers are hearing the phrase ‘’Thank you for showing your interest in our company, unfortunately, due to a large number of applications we are unable to take your application forward’’ for a good while now.
This has been causing the job seekers to be frustrated and disappointed in the existing times of uncertainty. Yet, it is equally important to understand that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Going through the job rejections is not easy, as such failures can cause immense amount of stress and depression if not handled appropriately. As someone who has been recently fired or a fresh 2020 graduate, the key is to keep trying consistently, patiently, while maintaining calm and composure, with the understanding that this phase will pass through.
So, what can the job seekers do in the middle of a pandemic to survive in a job market which is here to stay for a foreseeable future? To better handle job rejections, job seekers can follow these tips :
1. Brace for the new normal :
Technology has played a very crucial role in the recruitment process. Hence, candidates looking out will also have to understand the technological transition that has occurred. Remote hiring, video interviews, are some of the ways recruiters are increasingly adopting to access a wider talent pool. Candidates are expected to be well prepared for these virtual ways of interacting with companies.
When it comes to video interviews, although at home, candidates can try to portray formality as much as they can, both in terms of body language and attire, just in the same way as the in-person interviews. This will ensure you are demonstrating professionalism.
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2. Upskilling :
In the process of applying for various jobs or facing job rejections, it is recommended to work on your existing core skills or learn new ones to stand out from the job market. Thanks to the booming ed-tech sector, there is a rise to many virtual courses at affordable rates available globally to upskill your career. Not only will this add value to your CV, but also prove that you are improving your skillsets and boosting your capabilities even while hunting for jobs. As there is a growing focus on adaptable candidates who are always willing to learn, investing in working on your skills will reap benefits for you even in a difficult job market such as this.
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3. Update your LinkedIn profile:
In a world where everything is gauged digitally, recruiters are shifting to assessing the candidate’s LinkedIn profile. It is, therefore, necessary to have an updated profile that talks in brief about your experience and relevant skills for the job you are applying for. A lot of times, a good LinkedIn profile with a professional photo, a well thought out presentation and a concise bio also gives a personality check of the candidates, which can give you a competitive edge.
For example: If you are a developer, it is advisable to attach the link to a project you may have done on GitHub. This will help the recruiter get an idea of the depth of your skills better.
4. Stay positive:
Facing job rejections in times like this is not easy. It may lead to anxiety affecting your mental health. However, what is worth noting that focusing on your strength can help you get going in the long run. Sustaining a positive mental attitude and most importantly, acknowledging the tough situations can provide a better perspective. Remember that you are not alone in this situation. Mass layoffs and job rejections have given a serious psychological and mental blow to many applicants.
5. Update your Resume:
Before applying for each job, you must thoroughly update their CV. Adding relevant certifications, highlighting a project, which could be beneficial for the role you are applying to are all small, but impactful tips that will take you a long way while looking for a job in a difficult job market. It’s also a good idea to take professional advice while building an impactful CV, which, to the recruiters is your face, as they see YOU through your CV while evaluating you.
One must also keep in mind the importance of keywords which need to be inserted in the resume. Many companies use ATS (Applicant Tracking Software) which helps them screen candidates based on the keywords found in their CV, matching to their job description. This tool is also capable of conducting candidates’ screening to suit job requirements.
You May Be Interested In: How to Write an ATS Compliant CV
6. Making a cover letter:
A good cover letter is just as important as your CV. While the resume talks about the bigger picture, the cover letter talks in specific about why you are best suited for a particular role. A cover letter may slightly vary depending on the kind of role and the company that you are applying for. Due to this reason, one has to tweak the cover letter and accordingly highlight the skills and unique qualities that you would bring to the table for the position you are applying for.
7. Networking :
Regularly staying connected with industry leaders through social media, or having conversations with experts around you is a good thing to be aware of the opportunities in your domain. This will help you get insights and career guidance too. Networking has great benefits besides having access to job opportunities.
Remember, it always comes down to how you respond to those job rejections with a positive mindset while keeping the above points in mind.
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