Stay Sharp During Your Job Search - Sterling Career Concepts

Stay Sharp During Your Job Search Stay Sharp During Your Job Search There are currently 7.9 million unemployed people in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Of those, 665,000 are considered to be discouraged workers, or people who are unemployed and so discouraged that they are not currently seeking employment. While that may or may not be your case, it is easy to understand why so many people feel discouraged about their job search options. However, searching for a job doesnt have to be a stressful endeavor. Rather, the time between jobs can be great for personal growth that helps you improve your resume and get a better job. Here area few ways you can keep sharp and move forward as you transition: Exercise Regularly Regular exercise strengthens you physically and mentally. The benefits can be especially important when youre looking for a job and need an extra boost. The Centers for Disease Control recommends that adults get at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week. This includes brisk walking, dancing, and biking, and it can be broken down into 10-minute intervals and completed throughout the week instead of all at once. Take Professional Development Courses One of the most important things you can do to land a job is stay relevant and up-to-date in your career field. This can be achieved by taking professional development courses as you are applying for jobs. Just make sure to update your resume once you finish a course. The Muse has a list of 50 professional development classes to help get you started in the right direction. Another way to show you are a lifelong learner with an entrepreneurial mind is to get involved with companies like Amway that teach you new, marketable skills. These companies help hone your business, marketing, and sales skills while enabling you to bring in a few extra (and much needed) bucks at the same time. Volunteer in Your Community Although you are going to be busy with your exercise regime and professional development courses, dont neglect volunteer work. If giving back to your community isnt reason enough to volunteer, consider how many people you will meet in your community and how you can add a few extra lines to your resume. Employers love to see volunteer work on resumes and it shows that you are not lazy and self-centered. Control Your Online Image What do potential employers see when they Google your name? Do you know? If not, you should. In this hyper digital, ultra-connected world, employers are going to seek your online information. Theyre going to try to look at your social media accounts. So, make sure they find what you want them to find. Control your personal brand by scrubbing anything that could dissuade an employer from hiring you or leaving them with the impression that you are a not suitable for whatever job youre applying for. Companies like Reputation.com help you control or create your online image so employers only see the best you.