Resume Tips For The Out Of Work

A worrying trend shows that many employers prefer not to hire people who are already out of work - seeking instead, individuals already within jobs, who are looking to move on. If you've heard this claim, it's very easy to feel demotivated, however there are plenty of steps to make yourself more employable and fight it!

Start taking action

Idle time is never good for your CV. You should be able to show that you've spent your unemployed time profitably and in ways that your next employer will value. So for example, consider signing up with temping agencies in your area, for short term contract work. The more flexible you can be - and the more skills and experience you can offer, the more success you're likely to find. You can increase your chances of being given an assignment by taking any type of work going, as long as you can travel there practicably. Also, consider developing your typing and basic IT skills for any office jobs. There are usually a range of courses available for those looking to upskill and get back into work - ask at your local jobcentre, college, temp agency or Citizen's Advice Bureau to find out more.

Remember that with temp work you'll have new experience to add to your CV and a reference. You might also experience interesting new work in a fresh industry - anything from an HR administrative role in company payroll services, to a secretarial cover role in a busy local garage! Keep your mind open to new opportunities, show up on time, be enthusiastic, work hard - and further opportunities may follow if your assignment employer is impressed.

Training and development

Time out of work is also ideal for re-training or developing new skills and a potential employer will be impressed that you've taken the time to make yourself more employable. Contact your local vocational school or community college to find out what courses are available, thinking about the potential role you might like to fill. Speak to a careers advisor if necessary; the National Careers Service is accessible in person or via the phone and is available to all adults. If you can get onto vocational training, then this is all the better, as you'll gain recognisable qualifications. Why not also consider alternative routes to employment, such as apprenticeships, where you'll be working whilst training - and earning a basic wage.

Projects are another valuable thing to get involved in. For example, if you're looking to get into graphic design, then approach a charity or voluntary group and ask if you can design some flyers or newsletters for them. If you want to create and design websites for a living, then why not create some samples - even for a company you'd be interested in working for. There are plenty of other things you can do as well to show that you're keeping active whilst being out of work. Volunteer with a local youth group, collect money for an age charity; even walk dogs at the local animal sanctuary. Not only will you be keeping busy and boosting your CV, you might even come across new lines of work that interest you - and potential offers of employment. Keep busy, let people know that you're enthusiastic and looking for work and you greatly improve your chances of finding your next job.

This post has been written by Zoe, a British legal blogger, on behalf of Mitchell Charlesworth. Click here to discover their great accountancy services.