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EMPLOYMENT BRIEFS: Stopping a gap; Righting a review; Ain't over til it's over; In the moment

Source: Tribune Media Services

Stopping a gap

As the national unemployment rate climbs to the highest it’s been in years, it’s no wonder many workers will have employment gaps on their resume. However, a survey by Office Team found that 93 percent of the 150 executives polled would be concerned about hiring someone who had a period of unemployment. “Applicants who have lengthy periods of unemployment should focus on quantifying their achievements and emphasizing specific skills and experience,” advises Dave Willmer, executive director of Office Team.

Righting a review

Regaining credibility after a bad performance review can be tricky, but it is possible, according to Karen Evans, director of the career development center at Albright College in Reading, Pa. She suggests devising a plan to improve your performance based on your boss’s comments and present it to your boss with a timeline. “You’re not going to be able to rebuild credibility unless you’re feeling confident,” Evans says. “Write out at least three or four positive attributes. It will help reframe your thoughts.”

Ain’t over ’til it’s over

During a tough economy, many positions are being put on hold, but some job seekers have even had their job offers revoked. Lynne Sarikas, director of the MBA career center at Northeastern University in Boston, says if a company revokes a job offer, that may be an indication of a disorganized company. “When searching for a job, you should never stop searching until you have everything signed, sealed and delivered,” she says. “If a company rescinds, you need to quickly pick up where you left off and get right back into the swing of job-search mode.”

Chin up through rejection

Thousands of job seekers face rejection every day, whether through a letter, unreturned phone call or their resume being tossed. In many cases, this has little to do with the job seeker and a lot to do with the needs and intentions of the hiring company. It’s important for job seekers to prevent taking the rejection personally, especially during today’s shaky national economy and job market. Instead, reflect on how you could have been a stronger candidate for the job and take the steps necessary to do so. “Rejection is a normal part of the job search process, and you cannot allow it to deflate your ego,” says Shelly Goldman, author of “Insider’s Guide to Finding a Job” (JIST, $12.95).

In the moment

During tough economic times, it’s important to be open to interim positions, freelancing or consulting opportunities. Companies are cutting fixed costs but may have openings available for projects or niche specialties to compensate for a reduction in staff. These opportunities will enable you to draw an income, maintain your skills and move you to the front of the line when hiring begins. “Leaders find creative ways to quickly steer themselves in the right direction during uncertain times,” said Bob Damon, president of the executive staffing firm Korn/Ferry International.

© 2009, Tribune Media Services