Job Search in November: How to Succeed?
Olivera Andjelkovic
HR and Talent Development Consultant ?? Executive Coaching, People Management, and Employee Training and Development
The job market has been incredibly tough in Europe and the US during the last few months. For some people, the entire 2023 was very challenging altogether – so many layoffs, slow hiring processes, and strong competition took an unavoidable toll on mental health – we’ve seen all of it.
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The success of your job search in November also depends on your industry, the job market in your location, and your qualifications - many factors are in play. Learn how to use circumstances to your advantage.
Job Searching in November Can Offer Many Benefits
? Tax advantages for employers and boosted hiring: Hiring before the end of the year can offer tax benefits for some companies, making them more inclined to fill positions. Companies often begin planning for the next year in November, including setting budgets and goals. They may be looking to hire in November to have new employees start in January, aligning with new projects and the beginning of the fiscal year.
? Networking opportunities: The holiday season can be full of networking events and social gatherings. These can be excellent opportunities to meet new contacts and learn about job openings. The festive atmosphere can positively affect the mood of hiring managers, potentially making them more receptive and responsive to job applications. ??
? Seasonal jobs: If you decide to take on a seasonal job, November is a prime time for that. Also, seasonal employment can sometimes lead to permanent positions, so don’t forget.
? Year-end reflection and goal setting: The end of the year is a time when many people reflect on their career goals and achievements. It is a good time for you to reassess your career objectives and set your job search direction.
So, What Steps Do You Need to Take in November?
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?? If you have been looking for a job for a while without success, consider the following:
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Think if your set job search goals are realistic.
Sometimes, it’s about adjusting expectations. Setting realistic job search goals can help in maintaining motivation and focus.
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Have you considered different industries or roles?
If you've been focusing on a particular role or industry and applied but have had no success landing an interview for months, consider broadening your search. Transferable skills can make you a valuable candidate in various fields. Make sure your resume is well written, though.
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Assess if you use online job platforms effectively.
Make sure your profiles on platforms like LinkedIn are up to date and reflect your skills and experiences. Do you know how to fully optimise your LinkedIn profile, for example?
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Expand your skillset.
The job market is competitive, and having additional skills can make you stand out from the crowd. If you're finding that you don't meet the qualifications for the roles you're interested in, consider taking courses or certifications to build your skills. This can make you a more competitive candidate.
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Stay positive and stay motivated.
Job searching is often a numbers game and a process of trial and error. Don't get discouraged; persistence and a willingness to adapt your strategies increase your chances of success.? Also, remember that everyone is moving at their own pace, so it's important not to compare your experience to others. Log off every now and then, and just step outside and breathe. Don’t be too hard on yourself.
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Seek professional help.
Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, consider reaching out to a career coach for personalised guidance and support. We’re here to help! You will gain the confidence you need, and you will not have to worry about many technicalities that puzzle you now – such as resume format, cover letters, your profile, or interviewing skills.
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?? How Do You Choose the Right Career Coaching or Resume Writing Service?
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This decision is so important because it can significantly influence your career trajectory – for better or worse. So, what steps and considerations do you need to make for the best possible choice?
First of all, the coaching relationship should be based on trust, even if it’s only about redoing your resume. A credible and trustful career coach will be open and transparent about their services, results or former clients. These should be the first things you check for red or green flags.
Before you reach out, consider the following:
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?? Have you defined your career coaching needs?
Are you looking for guidance on career transitions, interview prep, job search strategies, or long-term career planning? Or do you just need your resume redone? Do you also need a cover letter, LinkedIn profile update, or other related services?
?? When doing research, check the coach's reviews and testimonials.
Do they seem verifiable? Can you reach out to those former clients and ask for a referral? These days, it’s so easy to buy good reviews (especially on third-party websites), and it’s even easier to fake them. Make sure those are real and true.
?? Check the experience and credentials a coach has.
How many years have they been offering their services? Do they have HR, hiring and recruiting background? Do not stop on certification, they can be misleading sometimes – for effective and successful career coaching, a person needs much more than learning technicalities about resume writing.
?? Ask about and assess the coaching or resume writing process.
Do they have a structured approach? How collaborative is the process? Will you have opportunities to give feedback and revise your resume, for example? Or what is their turnaround time? Will you speak with a person that writes your resume?
?? Think about the price.
Determine your budget ahead of time. Remember, the cheapest option may not always be the best, but the most expensive doesn’t guarantee the best results either. Consider value over cost.
?? Check if there is a continued support.
After the main service, do they offer any follow-up support or resources? For career coaching, is there an option for ongoing sessions, or is it a one-time service?
?? Think about referrals - ask friends, family, or colleagues if they've used similar services and can recommend someone.
LinkedIn can be a good platform for this. You can see who among your connections has given or received endorsements or recommendations for career coaching or resume writing. If you are interested in working with a specific coach, check out their posts, comments, and the way they interact with people online.
?? And finally - trust your gut.
Go with someone you feel comfortable working with. Your intuition can guide you in determining if there's a good fit between you and the coaching service provider. If something feels off, or if you're not comfortable for any reason, consider other options.
Once you've considered these steps and considerations, you'll be better positioned to make an informed decision that can help move your career forward. Unfortunately, in recent years, there have been many incompetent and opportunistic people online and on LinkedIn, offering career coaching services, automating them, and making all sorts of “pyramidal” businesses in the coaching sector. People who use their inefficient services often come to me after asking for help.
Be wise, take care, and don’t fall into this trap.
Check out the guide on how to spot fake and incompetent coaches on LinkedIn or online:
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What if You Are Looking for a Job in Europe as a non-EU Citizen?
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Finding a job in the EU is very challenging for many non-EU citizens. Following the steps summarised in this guide, you can enhance your prospects of securing a fulfilling job in the EU and a promising career in a rich and diverse cultural environment.
Understanding the EU Job Market
Before starting your job search, you must first familiarise yourself with the EU job market. Different countries have varying demands for skills and professions. Some sectors, such as IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance, often have numerous opportunities, but some countries can also require a degree upgrade or legalisation to be able to work in that specific country.
Proficiency in one or more European languages can be a significant advantage, too. While English is commonly spoken, learning the language of the country you intend to move to can increase your job prospects.
?? Preparing Your Job Search Tools and Application
The job market in the EU can be highly competitive, especially in popular destinations and sought-after industries. As a non-EU job seeker, you must compete with local as well as other international candidates.
?? Ensure your resume is tailored to the European requirements. Working with a career professional is a good option to consider. It will help to highlight your skills, qualifications, and work experience in a way that European employers value.
?? Career Coach can also help develop a personalised job search strategy for the specific EU country, including insights into sectors with higher demand for international expertise.
?? It is also advisable to update and optimise your LinkedIn profile. More than 90% of European employers use LinkedIn, and they source candidates daily on this platform.
Job Search Strategies
?? Narrow Down Your Search
If possible, choose a country and industry. Do you want to work in Germany or The Netherlands? Will you look for your new role in the international organisation or in IT? Answers to this kind of questions will help you tremendously to keep your job search focused and effective.
?? Use Job Portals and Agencies
There are numerous online job portals, such as EURES, which can be beneficial in finding opportunities across various European countries. Other platforms to consider include, of course, LinkedIn or Indeed. Researching recruitment agencies in the country of your choice is also beneficial. However, it might not be easy to register on some of these platforms/agencies if you are outside the EU. If that’s the case with you, use the company's career page to apply directly.
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?? Network
Leverage professional networks such as LinkedIn to connect with industry professionals and recruiters in the EU. Attend webinars, workshops, and networking events to build connections in your desired field. Use LinkedIn actively as well.
Legal and Administrative Procedures
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1?? Work Permits and Visas
Non-EU citizens usually require a work permit to work in the EU. This is the No.1 problem for all job seekers. The type of permit and the procedures involved can vary between countries. You need to research the specific requirements of the country you intend to move to. You can usually find all relevant information on the government sites for Immigration and Integrations.
For example, if you want to relocate to The Netherlands, you will find all the info about work and permits here: https://ind.nl/en/residence-permits/work.
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2?? Recognition of Qualifications
Depending on your profession, you may need to get your qualifications recognised in the EU. Contact the respective national recognition bodies in your target country to understand the procedures involved.
For example, for work in The Netherlands, here is what you need to know about qualification recognition: https://www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/foreign-qualifications-netherlands/work
Relocation and Integration
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1?? Relocation Support
Moving to a new country comes with a set of challenges, including finding accommodation, adjusting to a new environment, and often much higher living costs. If your employer does not support you with this, you can seek assistance from relocation agencies that can help with the logistics of moving, finding accommodation, and settling into your new environment.
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2?? Cultural Integration
Understanding and adapting to the cultural nuances of your new country is vital for a smooth transition. Sometimes, cultural shock can be overwhelming. Non-EU jobseekers may face difficulties understanding and adapting to local customs, work ethics, and business etiquette. Engage in community activities and language classes to integrate into the local culture as fast as you can.
European Union offers a rich and rewarding work experience characterised by stability, diversity, and personal and professional growth opportunities. It is also known for its robust workers' rights and benefits, healthy work-life balance, and high quality of life.
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If you see yourself as a part of it, do your best to ensure you have all it takes to follow your dreams.
Do you need professional assistance in your job search? Here are 5 ways I can help you:
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??? Resume Review
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Wishing you a successful and productive November! ????
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