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HK7 Steps to Boost your Resiliency to Deal with Job Uncertainty
Uncertainty is all around us. This uncertainty activates a stress response that can affect you in many different ways, including anxiety and depression. Two huge stressors are not knowing if you will lose your job or losing your job and not being able to find another one quickly.
Right now, set yourself on a proactive path with these 7 key steps to boost your resiliency to help you deal with job uncertainty.
- Don’t let your brain box you in
Don’t let your mind prevent you from growing, thinking positively, or finding opportunities. It is easy to keep thinking, “I can’t”, “I don’t know how”, or “I don’t know what to do”.
The first step to creating a new ‘thinking’ foundation is acknowledging that life is never certain. With this reality, you can now start with a more open mindset and look at life and possibilities in new ways. Open your eyes, step outside your comfort zone, and grab hold of possibilities.
- Empower yourself by taking charge
A key step in empowerment is understanding the value you provide. Your self-worth is directly linked to your belief in yourself. Acknowledge your strengths by listing your skills and talents. Next, list your accomplishments and how you made use of those skills and talents. In interviews, mention your achievements to highlight your value.
With your strengths and accomplishments in mind, update your resume (CV) to be ready for any and all opportunities. Be sure to proof it! Lack of attention to detail stands out for all the wrong reasons so check your spelling, grammar, punctuation, and layout.
- Prepare your 30 second personal pitch
Be ready to explain who you are at a moment’s notice. This short ‘elevator’ speech is all about who you are, what you do, and what you want to do. It’s a quick synopsis of your background and experience.
Your pitch is a resiliency tool to have on hand when opportunities arise such as networking and events. It’s a way to share your expertise and credentials quickly and effectively with people who don't know you.
- Upgrade and learn new skills
Upgrade your skills to keep you up to date in your field and make you a more competitive job applicant. Equally important is learning new skills to continue boosting your self-confidence and marketability.
Expanding your skills and abilities will open up the boundaries of your existing field. You can also consider job opportunities and roles that you once passed on.
- Improve your interpersonal skills
Individuals with strong interpersonal skills are in demand because they collaborate effectively with colleagues and work well on teams.
If you possess strong interpersonal communication skills, shine a light on them whenever you can. If this is a weakness, take courses to strengthen your ability to communicate and motivate others.
An individual’s exceptional ability to communicate well on all levels can open doors to leadership opportunities.
- Build and expand your career network
Your network is a powerful tool when you want to switch jobs or when you lose a job. To tap into the hidden job market, there is no time like now to broaden your list of contacts. Everyone you know may know someone who knows someone who could link you to new possibilities. Ask for referrals.
Invest time in building your professional network and strengthening relationships. When you need to find a new position, draw on these resources when you need them. They can be a strong re-employment lifeline.
- Be creative and stay informed
In difficult times, flexibility is key. In your conversations with your network, keep an open mind to possibilities that you might not have considered before. Your skills and talents could indeed be transferable.
Expand your job options by being on the lookout for unusual ways that interest you where you can add value. There may be multiple possibilities. Inspire yourself with ideas and think confidently.
Be in the know. Keep yourself informed by following the changes and trends in your profession, industry, and the wider economy. Note key contact names.
It’s an uncertain world. Staying calm, optimistic, and motivated will help you adapt to life-changing and stressful situations.
Thoroughly understanding your abilities and being proactively prepared will boost your resiliency to push through the tough times in spite of setbacks or barriers.
Drake is here to help you boost your job resiliency with free career advice, resources, and job postings through our Drake Talent Network. To learn more, visit us at www.drakeintl.com and click on “Careers”.
Drake International’s portfolio of Talent Management Solutions helps organisations solve their people, productivity, and performance issues.
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