Like a sprinter, you need to be off like a shot the moment you find out your services are no longer needed. Any delay in starting your job search could result in lost opportunities. Time is of the essence when you're out of work.
But mistakenly, too many executives take time off before they commence an active search, sometimes to go sailing for the summer or skiing for the winter. Some people need to sit back and reflect. Others negotiate lucrative severance packages and have the confidence they can find a job at will. Then there are the ones who are just confused and apprehensive because looking for a job is a new and frightening experience.
MISCONCEPTION: Potential employers will admire you for taking time off between jobs.
REALITY: Taking time off between jobs indicates you lack a sense of urgency, focus, and aggressiveness.
Surviving the Initial
Whatever the reason, you need to be keenly aware that taking time off not only removes you from the market; it also raises concerns for potential employers.
Putting off a job search sends a signal that you lack a sense of urgency in one of the most important aspects of your life. The employer then has to wonder if you would react the same way when a critical part has to go out the next day to avoid shutting down a customer's plant.
False and delayed starts also raise questions about your commitment, focus, and aggressiveness. Employers love to hire people who demonstrate their desire to work. The greater the gap on your resume between your last day of work and the time you apply for a position, the more likely you will have to answer in-depth questions concerning your activities during the period of unemployment. And by the way, bragging about a huge severance package does little to justify taking time off, particularly during the summer months.
If you are shy about getting your search on the road, seek the help of professional recruiters, self-help groups, or friends and associates who have been through similar experiences. Remember, you are not alone in your quest to find a job, so make every effort to keep your spirits high and your attitude positive. Be aggressive and don't just sit back and expect things to happen. Severance pay runs out faster than you think, and the more time you spend jobless, the more your confidence will wane. In addition, potential employers will begin to wonder why others haven't picked up on your talents.
MISCONCEPTION: Good jobs are easy to find if you have great qualifications,
REALITY: The job market is crowded with candidates who also possess great qualifications.
Now . . . For all you top dogs, who have earned six figures for many years, get ready for a slice of reality. You are now on the other side of the desk. The companies you are soliciting have functioned in the past without your help and knowledge.
Don't forget ... You are the one trying to make the team.
In a tough market, the key words are flexible and realistic. You must be flexible and willing to consider positions that are lower in stature and may require sacrifices, such as relocating or even forfeiting a fancy title. More important, you must be realistic with your compensation and expectations for your new job. Setting your sights too high will limit your objectivity. You may even pass up a good opportunity because you think something better might be on the horizon.
MISCONCEPTION: Employers will think you are a soft touch if you accept a lower salary.
REALITY: Employers will respect you if your expectations are realistic, demonstrating a desire to work.
Industries are constantly changing and technology alters the needs for specific expertise. Nuclear engineering was one of the most sought-after disciplines in the late seventies. Software professionals were in strong demand throughout the eighties. Environmental engineering may be a growing field in the years ahead. Times change.
Whatever the case, make sure you sit down and set your job search strategy by becoming fully cognizant of the changing market conditions in your target industries.
Regardless of how extensive your education or how deep your talents and experience is, be realistic and recognize that every potential employer doesn't have the need or financial resources to pay for each and every one of your skills. Realistic expectations will keep you on the road to that new job provided you don't get detoured by your ego and pride.
Don't be insulted by the first offer you get. Remember, your negotiating base for future jobs is significantly strengthened if you are gainfully employed. That first offer may be the only one you receive.
