Due to the recent government sequester, many federal positions may be in trouble. In fact, $85 billion budget cuts later, many government jobs have either been reduced, salaries cut, or they've been eliminated altogether. Outplacement services may be your next best bet.
If you're one of the million plus workers who may be transitioning soon, you may be considering some sort of outplacement service to help you find new work. However, outplacement services come in many shapes and sizes, particularly online. Let's explore some of these outplacement services and some best practices around them.
Niche job boards
Sometimes, big name job boards just don't cut it, especially when you're looking for something highly targeted. Instead, check out some niche resources during your transition period. Niche job boards not only help you to find jobs, but also the right jobs because they're tailored to what you're looking for. For example, there are job boards for those in a certain age range, occupation, and even level of education.
Tip: Along with applying through a niche job board, make sure your application materials are also tailored to the website. It doesn't make sense to apply to a job with a generic cover letter through a niche job board, right? So, make sure each application is unique to the position, as well as the the niche job board.
City websites
City websites are a great place to look for work. Typically, these websites are overlooked, so resources like your local chamber of commerce can be a valuable place to find work. In addition to government listings and helpful employment resources, city websites will usually post local jobs, which is a plus for those who aren't looking to relocate.
Tip: Use city websites as a sort of launching pad. For instance, once you find a position you're interested in, don't stop there! Do you research, connect with members of the organization, arrange a meeting, etc. Remember, these resources are available during transitional periods, but they shouldn't be the end of the road. Make the extra effort in order to create a new opportunity.
Social networking
Social networking is, of course, one of the most helpful tools out there. However, did you ever think of it as an outplacement service? Think of social networking as something you use alongside your job search, not just a one-time tool. For instance, you can learn a lot about industry news by following thought leaders. You can understand how a new process works through a popular blog. You can even create a social connection or gain a mentor if you chose. All of these methods help you to become a more well-rounded professional, as well as assist you during a fluid time in your career.
Tip: Be the brand! Social networking allows you to be whoever you want. Just be sure you can back it up. For example, if you were in the engineering field, it would be beneficial for you to post content that's relatable to your industry so you can receive feedback from those in your network. You not only learn something from others, you also look good in the eye of a potential employer should they check out your social networking platforms.
Preparation tools
Sometimes it's about what you can do on the back-end in order to prepare yourself for the future, whether you're going through outplacement or not. Why not take advantage of the many online educational classes, many of which are free to use? You can learn a new skill, get yourself schooled on some industry practices, and keep your mind occupied while you look for something new. In addition, taking these classes shows a future employer that you have an interest in your industry, even if you aren't working currently.
Tip: Transferrable skills are a must these days. With that in mind, try to take classes that make these skills happen. For example, the engineering professional may want to take classes on public speaking or even design. By doing so, they make themselves into a more attractive candidate because an employer can do more with less.
These four outplacement services may not be as obvious as traditional services, by they do assist modern professionals as they merge into a new phase of their lives. Give these outplacement methods a try today!
What do you think of outplacement? What are some other other online outplacement services?
Sudy Bharadwaj is a co-founder and the CEO of Jackalope Jobs, a platform that helps job seekers find a job via their social networks. Learn how Sudy and Jackalope Jobs obsess over job seekers by connecting with them on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.