Prepare and Search for Your Career after a Layoff
Return to the Layoff Step Guide Home Page for more information.
Now that you have evaluated your interests and updated your skill set, the next step is preparing for your job search and searching for jobs in your career field. All of the steps below are important to the job searching process. These are things that will help you stand out in a crowd of applicants and give you the best chance at landing a great job.
Update your resume. Now that you're going to return to the job market you want to make sure your resume reflects your skills, past experience, education and certifications (if applicable) to show that you are qualified. Optimal Resume is a free tool you can use to create a new resume or update one you already have. You can access Optimal Resume by logging into Illinois workNet with your account and going into your "Dashboard". Get specifics on how to prepare your resume to ensure you have a great resume. If you would like to see more specific types of resumes, no worries, we have some great examples here.
Update your LinkedIn account with any new information and make sure to set your status to "Looking for Work". Also, make sure your social media sites are cleaned up. You will be applying and interviewing for jobs very soon and employers may be looking at your personal social media pages. While doing so, it's a good time to use your social media sites to network with those around you to see if there are more jobs available to you. Get tips on job seeking on social media on the Illinois workNet Social Media Guide.
Review the various application processes. If it has been a while since you've applied for a job, some things may be different. Knowing the Ins-and-Outs of online applications and understanding expectations of individual organizations ensures an efficient application process. Illinois workNet has articles dedicated to keeping you up to date on the application process.
Attend job fairs in your area. Make sure and look at the Illinois workNet Event Calendar to find job fairs near you. General fairs are helpful, but you should also try to find events that focus on your new career field. If a job fair is one of the last things you thought you'd be going to, check out How to Succeed at a Job Fair. For those with busy schedules and if travel is not as accessible, virtual job fairs are great alternatives. Leave resumes with recruiters, get contact information, and chat online with recruiters from the comfort of your own home or a local public computer.
Start your job search. Now that you've updated your resume and refreshed your knowledge on the job searching process, you are ready to get out there and find a job. Illinois provides some pretty unique job search tools like Illinois JobLink. Use Illinois JobLink to help you get connected with in-demand jobs. Also, make sure to check out our job search resources page for more helpful hints and tips about job searching.
Stay positive throughout your job search; it may take time. If you're not finding the right jobs, expand your search options. If you need further assistance, visit your local Illinois workNet Center, where you can get one-on-one assistance. Illinois workNet has the resources necessary and the personnel available to help you in your job search.
Action Items
Use the Worksheets below to complete this step:
Action Verb Listing - Large Print
Military to Civilian Skills Worksheet - Large Print