The Have Nots
Today I found out I got the job. I was both happy and relieved - all in the same breath. And while this was wonderful news, for which I was very grateful, I could not help but stop and think of those who are currently less fortunate. The "Have Nots."
We know that tens of millions of people are worrying each day, for weeks now, about their own employment future. Right now, I am one of the lucky ones. I am well aware of that. As I am equally aware of the fact that anything can and - so far in 2020 - will change...on a dime.
A few weeks ago, I would not have thought it possible to find a job during a pandemic and with so much uncertainty in the world. But my skepticism was proven wrong because there actually are companies still hiring. I went through the usual process - resume, cover letter, interview, second interview, reference check. I easily felt myself falling back into the trap of despair time and again. And, all the while, trying to avoid too much obsession with news platforms and social media that are practically asking each other now when we can expect to return to "normal." But I had to have hope, because what can you do without it?
That I got the job was almost bittersweet news, because as much as I need the job and the health insurance and the income, what I would really love would be to go to the mall on a Saturday with a few hundred other people. Or sit in a darkened movie theatre with 10 or 20 fans with similar taste in Keanu Reeves action films. Or go for a walk without having the person approaching me cross the street to avoid me. Or just to have everything back "the way it was." Having friends and families looking forward to their next vacation at the happiest place on Earth, along with so many other families, milling about without a care in the world.
But now, we have all the cares (and concerns) of the world, and many of them focus on how we will survive in such a crazy, upside down world.
So even though I have this job, I am making the conscious decision to keep in mind the Have Nots. And I invite you to do the same. I am donating a portion of my first paycheck to World Central Kitchen (www.wck.org). I still hold that the only way we will get through this is together and since someone has given me a chance, I want to be able to contribute to someone somewhere else who needs one too.
Don't just stay safe; stay hopeful.
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Resume Red Flags
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https://www.market-connections.net/blog/resume-red-flags
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Hi,
I wanted to get some other perspectives from anyone that has become a mum and feels like they need to/want to take a step back in their career? I don't know if my experience is unusual or if this is a common thing that happens. I have a very limited village, so any illness or issue means I have to take time off work etc. and progressing in my career in a high stress environment doesn't feel sustainable alongside the home life pressure. Is anyone willing to share their experiences?
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Tired of filling out job application forms? You are not alone!
Job searching can be draining, and one of the biggest hurdles is the sheer volume of applications. Don't let application fatigue slow you down. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to help you power through:
Step 1: Optimize Your Resume for Each Role, Efficiently!
Instead of rewriting your entire resume for every job, focus on targeted tweaks. Identify 3-5 keywords from the job description and make sure they appear naturally in your resume, especially in your summary and experience sections. Use an AI tool or a word cloud generator to quickly spot these keywords in the job posting. This saves time and significantly increases your chances of passing applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Step 2: Craft a Concise, Impactful Cover Letter Template
Stop writing unique cover letters from scratch. Develop a master template that includes sections for your introduction, your key skills and achievements, and a strong closing. For each application, simply customize the company name, job title, and one or two sentences that specifically highlight why you're a perfect fit for this particular role. Keep it brief – three paragraphs are usually enough.
Step 3: Set Application Limits (and Stick to Them!)
It's tempting to apply for everything, but this often leads to burnout. Decide on a realistic number of applications you'll submit each day or week (e.g., 3-5 quality applications per day). Once you hit that number, stop! Use the extra time to network, learn new skills, or simply recharge. This helps maintain your energy and focus, ensuring each application gets the attention it deserves.
What other job search challenges are you facing?
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Hello everyone, I will be re-entering the job market at the start of next year.
I work in the health insurance industry and my job is suddenly not looking so stable. I've been warned I might get a minor hour/pay reduction next year depending on how many clients we lose, best case is 10% and worst case is 25%. I know I'm 'safe' for this AEP - I'm the only receptionist for a family business with 2K clients. If they let me go they would not be able to function. But next AEP is not as guarenteed depending on how bad it gets this and next year, and I'm not waiting to find out. So after this AEP, I'm going to be looking for a new job.
I have not job hunted in about 2 years. How much different is it? I have solid experience in office work and that's mostly what my education was focused on (that and business). Last time I job hunted is when AI was just starting to make it's way into the job application field, and I loathe to find out how pervasive it is now.
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Become a Storyline Style Coach! ?✨
Love helping women feel confident in their clothes and in themselves? Then this opportunity was made for you.
As a Storyline Style Coach, you’ll:
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