Navigating a restructure?

Navigating the job market after a company restructure can be daunting, but with the right strategies, you can turn this challenge into an opportunity. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of this transition:

1. Using LinkedIn Correctly LinkedIn is your digital CV and networking powerhouse. Optimise your profile with a professional photo, a compelling headline, and a well-crafted summary that highlights your experience and achievements. Engage with industry content, join relevant groups, and share insightful posts to increase your visibility. Remember, recruiters often use LinkedIn to search for candidates, so ensure your profile is keyword-optimised for your desired roles.

2. How to Network Effectively Networking is key to finding new opportunities. Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and industry peers. Attend virtual events, webinars, and industry meetups to expand your network. When networking, focus on building genuine relationships rather than just asking for a job. Offer value, whether it’s sharing an article, providing feedback, or connecting someone to a useful contact.

3. Staying Positive and Motivated Job searching can be a long and sometimes frustrating process, but maintaining a positive mindset is crucial. Set daily goals, celebrate small wins, and keep a routine to stay motivated. Surround yourself with a supportive network and don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it. Remember, everything you do brings you one step closer to the right opportunity.

4. Using Contracting as an Option to Buy Yourself Time Consider contracting or freelance work as a way to stay active in your field while you search for the perfect role. This not only keeps your skills sharp but also adds valuable experience to your resume. Contracting can also open doors to permanent positions within companies you may not have considered before. Cross border contracting is also something you can consider. (If contract work is something of interest, this is a service we provide and we are happy to discuss.)

5. Leveraging Headhunters and Recruiters Headhunters and recruiters can be invaluable allies in your job search. They have access to job openings that may not be advertised publicly and can provide insights into what employers are looking for. Build relationships with a few reputable recruiters in your industry—they can help match you with roles that fit your skills and experience. Find those you can trust, who are networked in the right spaces, as opposed to volume or high street operators.

6. Applying Directly to Companies on LinkedIn Take advantage of LinkedIn’s job search features to apply directly to companies that interest you. Use filters to narrow down your search and set up job alerts to be notified when new positions are posted. When applying, tailor your resume and cover letter to each role, highlighting how your experience aligns with the job requirements.

5 Other Useful Tips

• Upskill: Use this time to learn new skills or earn certifications that are in demand in your industry. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a variety of courses.
• Tailored Applications: Customise each application to the job description, focusing on how your skills and experience make you the ideal candidate.
• Practice Interviewing: Prepare for interviews by practicing common questions and developing a strong personal pitch. Use resources like mock interviews or coaching to refine your approach.
• Stay Organised: Keep track of the jobs you’ve applied to, follow-up actions, and responses. A spreadsheet or job search app can help you stay on top of your applications.
• Where possible, influence the process: Whether it be a recruiter or a contact within the organisation, where appropriate use these relationships to gain valuable tips, hints and invites.

Remember, being in the job market is not just about finding any job, but about finding the right job. With persistence, the right strategy, and a positive attitude, you’ll find an opportunity that aligns with your career goals.

We will be expanding on these 6 points, on a weekly basis in their own dedicated article / post. If there is anything additional anyone would like included in this, please get in touch.