The strategy outlined aims to assist a 61-year-old long-term unemployed individual in securing employment through a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach. One aspect focuses on updating skills and resume. For instance, enrolling in relevant courses and revamping the CV to include in-demand skills can make a job seeker more attractive to potential employers. Additionally, maintaining an active LinkedIn profile with a professional photo can enhance one's online presence and credibility.
Another key element is expanding the professional network. Attending industry events and job fairs can open doors to new connections, while engaging on platforms like LinkedIn can strengthen professional relationships. Seeking mentorship opportunities further deepens these connections.
Finally, applying strategically increases the chances of success. Customizing each job application to align closely with job requirements, using job search engines, and following up with HR departments can lead to better job prospects. Considering contract or flexible roles as pathways to permanent employment is also advisable.
The strategies
⛳️ Strategy 1: Update your skills and resume
- Identify relevant skills in demand and enrol in courses or workshops to acquire them
- Craft a modern CV highlighting your skills, achievements, and experiences
- Incorporate keywords from job descriptions into your resume for optimisation
- Create a LinkedIn profile or update your existing one with a professional photo and detailed profile
- Seek volunteer opportunities or part-time work to fill recent experience gaps
- Compile a list of professional references and request permission to include them in your applications
- Write a generic cover letter that can be customised for different job applications
- Research the latest trends in your target industry to stay informed and relevant
- Take part in webinars or industry events to expand your knowledge
- Leverage online skill-testing platforms to earn certifications
⛳️ Strategy 2: Expand your professional network
- Join industry-specific groups and forums both online and offline
- Attend job fairs and career networking events in your area
- Connect with former colleagues and employers via LinkedIn or email
- Request informational interviews with professionals in your desired field
- Register with recruitment agencies that specialise in your professional area
- Engage actively in discussions on LinkedIn and other industry platforms
- Invite new contacts for coffee to discuss mutual interests and opportunities
- Offer to provide mentorship or guidance in areas of your expertise
- Follow companies of interest on social media and engage with their content
- Join and be active in local community organisations as a way to meet potential employers
⛳️ Strategy 3: Apply strategically for job positions
- Identify companies known to hire experienced candidates or older workers
- Use job search engines and set up alerts for roles that match your profile
- Apply uniquely to each position by customising your resume and cover letter
- Prioritise applications for positions where your experience and skills match closely
- Call or email HR departments to follow up on your job applications
- Prepare for interviews by practising typical questions and scenarios
- Attend mock interviews with friends or career coaches for feedback
- Stay positive and persistent, keeping track of all applications sent and responses received
- Consider temporary or contract roles as a gateway to permanent employment
- Explore flexible working options and highlight your adaptability to potential employers
Bringing accountability to your strategy
It's one thing to have a plan, it's another to stick to it. We hope that the examples above will help you get started with your own strategy, but we also know that it's easy to get lost in the day-to-day effort.
That's why we built Tability: to help you track your progress, keep your team aligned, and make sure you're always moving in the right direction.
Give it a try and see how it can help you bring accountability to your strategy.
