You’ve been laid off and need to find a new job. What’s the best way to stand out in a competitive market?

1)Update Your Resume:The first step is to update your resume. Additionally, ensure that you alter your resume according to the job you're applying for. 2)Recruitment Strategies:Make sure you're well aware of recruitment tricks that can significantly aid your job search. 3)Job Portals:Ensure you have knowledge of job portals like LinkedIn,Naukri and understand how to search for jobs using filters. 4)Network:Increase your connections by following genuine recruitment firms and sending connection requests to recruiters. 5)Regularly Update Your Profile:Keep your profile updated with your latest skills and certificates. 6)Mock Interviews: Conduct mock interviews with your friends or family to ensure you're ready when the right opportunity arises.

Most major cities have a Business Journal. Each year these Journals create Book of List. Each list is comprised of the top firms in each industry and include the leaders of each firm. Target your industry's list and send direct letters to the leaders on the list. Congratulate the leaders on their success. Comment how your goals and values parallel theirs. Do not ask for a job or expect that they may know of a position. Ask for a brief meeting to discuss how they accomplished their goals and seek advice on how you may advance as well. You can enhance your response by connecting with each in Linkedin. If you have not heard back try again...remember these leaders achieved their success through persistence.

Use quantifiable metrics whenever possible to demonstrate the impact of your work in previous roles. For example, if you implemented cost-saving measures or improved efficiency in a facility, quantify the savings or productivity gains achieved.

Establish a professional online presence to showcase your expertise and networking capabilities. Create or update your LinkedIn profile with a professional photo, detailed work experience, and recommendations from former colleagues or supervisors. Share articles, insights, and relevant industry news to demonstrate your knowledge and engagement in the field.

This could include certifications such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM) from IFMA, LEED Accreditation for sustainability expertise, or certifications in specific technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) software.

Instead of relying solely on traditional resumes and cover letters, you can develop a digital portfolio that includes photos, videos, case studies, and interactive presentations highlighting your projects, problem-solving skills, and leadership abilities. This multimedia portfolio can be shared with potential employers online or presented during interviews to provide a more dynamic and engaging overview of your qualifications and achievements.

Work does not start in a moment of need, but through your career. Most of those advices are good but do not have an immediate return, especially building a network. You cannot build a healthy network only when you need something from people…