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Greetings!

As a professional résumé writer based here in Portland, I work with many folks who are struggling to transition back into employment after being laid off, downsized, switching a career, or attempting to find work after being fired. 

One thing that I find that many people go into shellshock.  Many of these workers had, in the past, previous jobs handed to them and never had to interview, but are now finding themselves shoulder-to-shoulder with applicants in a swirling sea of sharks competing for what few jobs there are out there. 

One tip that I always share with my clients to help overcome the discouraging and ego-bashing effort (otherwise known as job searching) is to volunteer.  Volunteering can restore a sense of self-worth, identity, and direction to people who are currently not working.  By focusing the volunteer effort, this can also count as a job record on their résumé if they volunteer in a professional capacity, which can help alleviate the pressure of having a glaring employment gap.

Additionally, by volunteering and engaging in altruistic activities, this releases endorphins, the 'feel-good' hormones... which is exactly what a job seeker needs the most to keep their spirits up. This, in turn, impacts how they carry themselves and the body language that they project while conducting their job search.  Being energized with a sense of meaning gives off a completely different vibe than someone who is depressed, sagging, and moping.

I have more insights to share about the job search process if this would be helpful to the show; have worked with 400+ clients across the U.S. in all economic sectors and employment levels.

Best regards,
Dawn Rasmussen, President (also on OPB Community Advisory Board)

Pathfinder Writing & Career Services 

posted 2 years, 11 months ago
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