By Sarah Roberts, CPRS Calgary Board Member
You might be looking for a change, or laid off during the pandemic. If you’ve been laid off, as I was last November, you’ll need some time to regroup and figure out where you want to go next. Then it’s time to make looking for work your full-time job!
From this latest job search, and a few before, here are a few things I’ve learned.
Make a Shortlist
A former (and now current!) colleague shared with me a valuable piece of advice last year. When you’re looking for a new job, make a list of where you REALLY want to work. What industry speaks to you? What will keep you interested and engaged? What kind of workplace is best for you culture-wise? Once you’ve done the investigative work, you can set your goals and start searching.
Make Contact
This is where you can start looking for people who work at your shortlisted companies. You’ve obviously already updated your LinkedIn profile, so start searching among your existing contacts for people who work at target companies, or for HR team members you could ask for a (virtual) coffee chat. Reach out to your network, they may have a connection to introduce you to! This might feel forward to some, but this is your future you’re working towards, what do you have to lose? Most people will respond with kindness and openness, and hopefully will appreciate your hustle.
Keep Going
Looking for a job can feel overwhelming. It’s anxiety-inducing, sometimes frustrating, and there’s a lot on the line so it’s stressful. Over and over — sending resumes in, not getting a response. You have to keep going, keep moving forward. Even if you interview and aren’t selected as the candidate, you still got the practice, and you’ll feel more confident for the next one. Also, Zoom interviews are a special kind of awkward, but let’s take the win that we can wear sweats on the bottom and a dressy shirt on top. Lean on your network and your people. KEEP GOING and take care of yourself. This is hard, but as Glennon Doyle says “We can do hard things”.
Get (or stay) active in professional associations
I can’t share information about job hunting without reminding you that a membership to a peer group like CPRS is also incredibly valuable. As a member, you already have a network! Join us for events, keep an eye on the job board and CPRS social channels. We are here to support you too!
