Covid-19 has dramatically changed the way we do business. Usual models of employment, and, indeed, recruitment, have been significantly impacted, at least in the short- to mid-term. In Switzerland, the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) announced at the beginning of August that expectations regarding the labour market remain very negative and that job security is continuing to decrease. Similar situations have been repeated in many other countries across the globe. No one really knows how the situation will develop, with many people concerned about their future.
Interestingly, some individuals thrive in a difficult job market while others struggle. Why? What can we do NOW to help ourselves in the future?
We all know that past experience and professional achievements are key factors in finding a job. This is why, before each application, we spend hours preparing our CV, detailing job titles, responsibilities and successes. But is there anything else that influences the process? As a recruiter and career transition coach, I would like to share my experience with you.
Let’s think of career success as an iceberg, with part of the iceberg visible but a large part below the surface. The elements above the water are what we all think are essential for a successful career: skills, education and previous work experience. But let’s take a look at what is below the surface. What are the hidden elements that help you succeed?
Research shows us that below the surface, attributes such as confidence, resilience, positivity, self-awareness, social connections, and goal setting are all key to finding a job. This makes sense. After all, if you get down after one negative job application, how can you bounce back when you have received many more? I speak from personal experience as, having finished my studies in England during a period of high unemployment, I received over one hundred rejection letters before I got my first career break.
And, if given the choice between an individual who is upbeat and confident at an interview and someone who gives out an air of sad resignation to their fate, a recruiter will be drawn automatically to the person who makes the interview enjoyable.
So, how can you improve all the employability skills that lie beneath the surface of the iceberg? In the coming weeks I will be sharing a series of articles on how to progress in these key areas. If you would like to receive the articles by email, contact me at julie@sc-careertransition.com with the text “CAREER SUCCESS” and I will add you to the mailing list. I will also be posting them on my website www.sc-careertransition.com and, in due course, on LinkedIn.
2020 has turned out to be a challenging year. I hope that my tips help you navigate some of the professional obstacles this year brings.