Networking Tips for the Unemployed
It’s difficult to be unemployed. Not just on the pocketbook, either. Job seekers suffer from depression and low self-esteem that only gets worse the longer one is unemployed.
Odds are, it was a company restructuring or buyout that got you where you are now, and there is no reason to take it personally…of course, that doesn’t make the pain and humiliation go away.
When people feel low and don’t think they’re worth much for whatever reason (real or imagined) they begin to act in different, recognizable ways. Less eye contact, not as much energy, the beginnings of a hint of a mumble to the speech. All things that when you go out networking set you apart from the rest of the people there - and not in a good way.
Networking can be tough when you’re unemployed, but that doesn’t mean it is impossible. If there is an especially long period where you haven’t been employed (say, six months or so) networking is probably the only way you’re going to get a decent job. Networking will give you the opportunity to explain why you’ve been unemployed and turn you into a human being deserving of work instead of a resume with a big gap that looks like a job-hopper or a less than ideal candidate.
When you attend networking events, it’s imperative you listen to upbeat music or do something so you’re in a great mood when you arrive. No moping, no hopelessness should enter that event with you. You’re just on the prowl for a job and someone inside is going to know someone that can help. Be optimistic, it’s not going to hurt you and will make you seem like a more desirable candidate from the first words out of your mouth.
Have faith - someone is going to need help - you just have to position yourself to be in the right place when that happens. If you can’t afford business cards, make sure to get them from others and follow up with a friendly email and a reminder of your conversation.
People like to help others when they seem like a good bet. Be a good bet and your chances for landing a good job after a slump increase dramatically.
Further Reading
- The best blog post I have ever read on being unemployed, what it does to you, how to cope, etc. - along with 97 Job Search Tips. Yea!
- Unemployment troubles happen to everyone, even CFOs.
- The frustration when people make things up to get you in the door.
- Depression makes it harder to get re-employed (there’s a study from a University cited in this one.)
- Finally, here is a link to an article with a list of suggestions - things to do to make you feel better if you’re depressed and unemployed. Please note: If you are depressed, do not go to this site because these are some of the sorriest, most pathetic examples (the PJs one, especially) that I have ever seen.
Image Source: Newscom
Tags: depression, Job Seekers, suicidal, unemploymentRelated Stories
POSTED IN: Job Seekers
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