Are you still unemployed and just wondering why you are yet to get that job? Even if it isn’t a dream one, then this “Top 5 reasons why you are not yet employed” is for you.
Imagine this: I’m taking a friend out for a drink and we were having a conversation. “I’ve applied to a lot of jobs, but nothing seems to be working out,” she says to me while looking at me with a frustrated expression on her face. How can I improve my performance?
This kind of question is a sentiment that is always shared by many job seekers, I nodded compassionately. It is possible that the road to employment is littered with challenges, and the reasons that you may still be looking for employment despite all your efforts may be more diverse than you can imagine.
If you have not yet secured that much sought-after job, you may want to read through the following top 5 reasons why you are not yet employed.
Also see: Top 10 Recruitment Agencies in Nigeria
Things You Are Doing Wrong In Your Job Search
1. Your CV Isn’t Selling Your Story
“My curriculum vitae just doesn’t seem to make an impact,” is a phrase that I’ve heard oftentimes. One of the first things to work on is your curriculum vitae (CV). Work on it very well as if your life depends on it because it is your first chance to make a good impression on potential employers.
Not only should it highlight your talents and accomplishments, but it should also explain your professional history in a way that distinguishes you from other candidates.
My acquaintance and I had a conversation in which I told them, “Think of your CV as your personal marketing tool.”
Tip: Make sure that your curriculum vitae is tailored to each specific job application so that it is in line with the job description. Your accomplishments should be quantified whenever possible, and you should use powerful action verbs when doing so.
2. Lack of Networking
The failure to make effective use of networking opportunities is yet another typical obstacle causing unemployment. It was stated by my friend that “I haven’t really reached out to anyone in the industry.”
The purpose of networking is not only to become acquainted with individuals; rather, it is to cultivate relationships and locate mentors who can assist you in overcoming the complex landscape of the job market.
Attending industry events, joining professional organizations on social media platforms such as LinkedIn, and not being hesitant to ask people you look up to for assistance are all great ways to put your professional networking skills to use.
3. Skills Gap
Sometimes a skills gap is the missing piece of the puzzle that has to be filled. My friend said, “I didn’t realize I needed to update my skill set,” and I was surprised as well.
Due to the rapid pace at which industries are changing, it is a must to maintain a level of familiarity with the most recent skills and technology that are pertinent to your sector.
The old Peugeot mechanics we knew while growing up would have been out of the job market if they had refused to upgrade their skills to fit the modern types of vehicles that have taken over.
To develop your skills, it is a good idea to identify areas in which you might use some skills and then enroll in online classes or workshops.
There are so many selections of courses available on websites such as Coursera and Udemy.
4. Interview Skills Need Polishing
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, and there are occasions when they don’t go according to plan.
My friend said, “I don’t know how to handle tricky interview questions,” and I couldn’t agree more.
Even though it’s not uncommon to feel unprepared, having strong interview skills can be the deciding factor in whether or not you get the job.
Practicing typical interview questions and responses is a good idea, and you could also think about conducting simulated interviews with a friend or a professional coach.
It is important to conduct research on the organization in advance and to come up with questions of your own to exhibit your interest.
5. Mindset and Persistence
Lastly, one’s frame of mind is an important factor when searching for a job. Oftentimes, I have heard the statement, “I just feel so discouraged,” and I agreed that it is always so easy to be discouraged when you have tried out something severally without success.
It is simple to lose drive after being rejected, but it is important to have a persistent attitude.
Those applicants who demonstrate resiliency and a desire to learn from their mistakes are highly valued by employers.
Suggestion: Maintain an optimistic attitude, also establish goals that are attainable, and celebrate even the smallest accomplishments along the way.
Every time you send in an application, you get one step closer to landing the job of your dreams.
BONUSES
Your Online Presence is lacking
The phrase “I don’t see why I need a LinkedIn profile – I’m not in sales!” is something that I’ve heard people said too often. On the other hand, I’ve learned that in this day and age, it is absolutely necessary to have a professional presence on the internet.
Online candidates are frequently searched for by employers; therefore, it is imperative that your profiles are comprehensive and highlight your talents.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you discover that you are experiencing emotions that are similar to those of my buddy, realize that you are not alone. Use these top 5 reasons why you are not yet employed to your advantage and put them into action.
Contemplate the factors that might be preventing you from moving forward, work to fill in the gaps, and keep moving forward.
The process of finding work is frequently a marathon, not a sprint; yet, if you are persistent and take a planned approach, you will eventually arrive at your target.
FAQs – Top 5 Reasons Why You Are Not Yet Employed
How do you answer why you are not employed?
Usually, in dealing with the question “Why are you not employed?” questions during job interviews or professional interactions, one should be honest, but also strategic. Tips to follow
- Provide a valid explanation: Be honest, but underpin the explanation with a positive spin.
- Stay focused: The time expectation for this response should be around 1-2 minutes.
- Think of doing certain activities for or towards employment: Point out what you are doing to make your employment chances better.
Example Answers:
- “I have been on a break to learn new skills in [industry/field] and now I am ready to use them in practice.”
- “I have been engaged in self-development and volunteer work so that I can have more experience and expand my circle of network.”
- “I have been trying out many professions to discover what would be the most appropriate for me.”
What are the 3 top reasons people stay unemployed?
Lack of job: This is the most common reason why people stay unemployed, lots of people are willing and ready to work, but the jobs are not just available. The few available jobs are usually competitive so one may always easily be disqualified
Lack of Strategy and Effort to Look for a Job: Not looking for jobs or only using one way (like online applications or not making resumes and cover letters specific to each job. Another reason is not using professional networks and connections;
Mismatch of Skills and Lack of Training: Not having the right experience or skills for the jobs they want is a common reason why people stayed unemployed. Not investing in education, training, or certifications to close the gap; and not adapting to changes in the business and new technologies;