Monday, October 11 is Thanksgiving across Canada! This post-pandemic, with the rollout of vaccines and the world gradually returning to a new normal, we certainly have something to be thankful for. Jobseekers around the world and mainly in Canada are at an all-time high, thanks to larger-scale re-openings and new employment opportunities.
Here are some reminders to be thankful for before, during, and after searching for a job.
- Your available tools
Improving ourselves in order to land a solid job is a no brainer, but taking a small step back and looking at the bigger picture should also be considered. Consult with your local labor and employment agency or book a session with a professional vocational counselor in order to gain additional perspectives on how to strengthen your skillset. Attend internships and trainings so you can continue to grow your profile and enhance your competencies. In short, be grateful for the available tools that you can utilize at the very moment.
- Your accreditation
Certain professions and vocations require accreditation or credentialing. If your current educational background requires one, then it’s finally time to grab a hold of that accreditation. Additional credentials are eye candy for employers, as they can speak to personal motivation, drive, and dedication, in addition to strengthened expertise in your particular field.
- Your background and experience
Making your resume or curriculum vitae stand out against other jobseekers is not an easy task. Instead of focusing on designs and fantasy fonts, keep your focus on solid content: engaging in additional education, seminars, and training speaks more to your candidacy and competency than the visual details.
- Your choices
When you feel like you’re all out of options, it’s easy to compromise our own personal standards and settle for less. Although this may temporarily relieve the itch, this can also feel forced, not to mention the lack of excitement that comes with compromising on your goals. Learn to curate, select and keep a list of your preferred vocations instead and work on how you can immerse yourself in those industries.
- Your confidence and enthusiasm
While businesses and establishments are slowly recuperating due to the pandemic’s devastating blow, some of these companies might not be hiring at the moment. It’s important to process the tough environment you are currently operating in, and thank yourself for remaining confident, enthusiastic and positive about your job search.
- Your endorsements and referrals
Similar to expanding your network, seeking assistance from your current network such as your previous colleagues and personalities in the industry that you seek to work with is a great way to build your credibility in the form of endorsement letters and referrals. While you’re at it, take the chance to learn from these individuals as much as you can about the industry and its ins and outs – just don’t forget to thank them later.
- Your network
We’ve all heard the saying, “Your network is your net worth.” Well, it couldn’t be true enough during these trying times. Start by surrounding yourself with individuals who have the same goals as you do. You never know, they might know somebody who knows somebody who is currently hiring. Tap your network and thank them for any opportunities.
- People who helped you
Your current network isn’t the only one who can help you when you’re job searching. Whenever you feel like things aren’t going your way, it’s perfectly acceptable to take a break, seek help and be thankful to learn from people who have had the same experience as you. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Perhaps you also know someone who’s hunting for a job – why not hunt with them? Apply for jobs and attend job fairs where you can.
It can be normal to feel discouraged as a jobseeker when progress is minimal, but dwelling on negativity won’t bring us any closer to our goals. The above notes can help us remember to be thankful for our skillset, network, and personal resilience to navigate life’s challenges.