What do you do if your transferable skills aren't getting you new career opportunities after a layoff?

Facing challenges in finding new career opportunities after a layoff despite possessing transferable skills can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to improve your situation: Self-assessment, Identify target industries or roles, Networking, Seek professional guidance Customize your resume and cover letter for each job application to highlight your relevant transferable skills and experiences. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your skills can add value to the prospective employer.

Recently I binge watched a movie which taught me to RESTART every time i faced a setback. How to implement in today's world? Here are some steps which i followed when i faced this : 1,Sit back & figure out : My strengths , My Weaknesses, My areas of improvement. 2. If you are facing challenges in finding these, seek help from colleagues, managers or professional coaches. 3. Tailor the resumes based on the Job description and showcase the quantifiable details in your Resume. 4. Maintaining the calm and positive attitude takes you long way. 5. Networking is an important aspect for reaching out for help. "RESTART" "REPHRASE" "REVAMP" yourself.

A comprehensive skill inventory is a strategic tool in career transitions. It's important to quantify the impact of soft skills with specific examples, as this provides a narrative of success that employers can relate to. For instance, illustrating how your problem-solving skills saved a project or improved efficiency can make your resume stand out. Additionally, identifying skill gaps is proactive; it shows potential employers that you're committed to continuous learning and self-improvement, which is a highly attractive trait in any industry.

A skill inventory is a comprehensive list of an individual's skills, abilities, and knowledge acquired through education, work experience, and personal pursuits. It helps individuals identify their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for development, which can be crucial in career planning, job search, and professional growth. For example, a skill inventory may include technical skills like programming languages, soft skills such as communication and leadership abilities, and specific domain knowledge relevant to the individual's field. By regularly updating and assessing their skill inventory, individuals can better align their career goals, identify skill gaps, and take proactive steps to acquire new skills.

In today's job market, a resume must be more than a list of past roles; it's a strategic document that markets your value proposition. Incorporating transferable skills is crucial, especially for those shifting industries or roles. Action verbs and quantifiable achievements not only demonstrate your capabilities but also help your resume pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that employers often use. Customizing your resume to each job shows a genuine interest in the role and helps you stand out in a sea of generic applications. This approach is a game-changer for job seekers.

Identifying the transferable skills by analysing the factors that led to key accomplishments in your career path helps you in rightly projecting it in your resume. Resumes should not be only key word specific. Add some context as well to these skills that helped you in solving problems or contributing to challenging situations in the previous jobs. How you quantitatively and qualitatively brought value in a job role through these transferable skills? If you got laid off or making a career switch, portraying these transferable skills on resume that can be of value to any job will stand out.

I am finally reaching out to people who work at the jobs, of which I apply to. I'm the type of person that doesn't like doing this. But times are tough and there's no harm in reaching out for help!

Networking is key in today's environment. Today's generation beliefs in building strong connects around us may be professional or personal. Networking from diverse background helps to explore various industries. Attending Industry connects is another key to explore your network.

Networking push involves actively reaching out to professionals in your industry through events, online platforms like LinkedIn, and connections from previous jobs. For example, you might attend a virtual industry webinar and follow up with a speaker via email to discuss shared interests or seek advice. By initiating conversations and building relationships, you can uncover job opportunities and gain valuable insights into your field.

Skills are always changing names - so make sure you update yours to be "current" and take the time to attend courses, get new certifications and take your skills to the next level. AND don't forget to include your "skills" on your resume and LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn and other platforms now allow recruiters to search by skills.

Assess skills for gaps. Network extensively. Upgrade skills through courses or certifications. Tailor resumes and cover letters for each application. Consider volunteering or freelancing. Explore new industries. Seek guidance from career professionals. Stay positive and persistent through the process.

This all takes time & effort; but you can enhance your visibility, credibility, & attractiveness to employers. I think you need to: -Define Brand: ID unique skills, strengths, & values- what sets you apart from others -Update Online Presence: Update your LI profile, personal website, & other professional profiles -Create/ Share Content: Share/ create relevant industry content -Engage More Frequently on Social Media -Attend Networking Events -Recommendations & Testimonials: Ask former colleagues, mentors, or clients for recommendations/testimonials -Develop Skills: develop skills & stay up-to-date w/industry trends -Seek Feedback: feedback from others on your personal brand can help improve it -STAY POSITIVE

I'm currently experiencing this. I have been building my brand on LinkedIn for years. It's important to stay consistent with posting/posting things that are on brand for you.

Given the current job market sometimes you have to take a step back to step up in the future. When multiple individuals are laid off with similar skill sets the market becomes saturated. Highlight your accomplishments and strive to set yourself apart form your peers.