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Getting Back Into Workforce

            Being out of the workforce in Nashville and Middle Tennessee for a long period of time is common for many in today’s modern culture. However, trying to get back in can be stressful, demoralizing and right down difficult.

            Some of the typical reasons for not being in a traditional job or being out of work altogether for an extended period of time are self-employment, sickness or birth of a child. And the reasons for wanting to get back in are even more diverse. They include:

·        Debt

·        Divorce

·        Boredom (often retired people)

·        Children leaving home

·        Recovery from long-term sickness

·        Death of a spouse

·        Desire for stability

            No matter what the reason, it is very common for people to want a regular paycheck along with benefits and have the security of a stable employer.

Once the decision is made to start working again most people face certain challenges. According to many career experts, the number one challenge is “gap in skills”. Other issues people face include:

·        A feeling of insecurity.

·        Lack of confidence in abilities.

·        Deciding what career to choose and at what level

·        Inadequate or no resume and cover letter.

·        Not knowing how to look for a job in the 21 century

            Fear is often an underlying emotion involved with these issues. To help overcome fear ask yourself a critical question, “What do I have to lose?” Of course, you have everything to gain.

How you overcome these challenges is the key to success.  There is a structured approach to help you reach your goal and get back into the workforce in a desirable position. There are several easy steps to take that can point you in the right direction.

            The first thing is to access your skills and interests. Next, determine your future career and life goals. And finally, research your specific fields of interest. An earlier chapter goes into more detail in the best ways to accomplish these steps.

            At this point many people may want to take courses to update their skills, like the use of computer programs such as MS Word or Excel. Even if you have been out of work only a couple of years, technology is changing rapidly. For instance, software programs receive constant updates and alterations. Some are replaced altogether.

            It may be wise to take these courses early on and not wait to the last minute so you won’t feel overwhelmed. Check out the job want ads in the paper and on Web sites to determine the latest required skills for your targeted occupation. Many of the computer courses can be mastered in a few weeks at community colleges, local computer stores or on CD ROMs.

            The next step of the process is to write a competitive resume and adapt it to relevant job applications (see earlier chapter) with a well crafted cover letter (see earlier chapter). Then prepare answers to often asked interview questions. Practice interviewing with friends or relatives.

            A big part of finding the right employer is to learn how to network. Identify and develop a network of contacts. Check out the section on networking for help.

            Formulate an action plan to get the job you want. The plan should include the amount of time you wan to set aside each week to research employment opportunities and a rough idea of how much time you wish to spend reviewing want ads in the paper, how much time on employment Web pages and how much time networking.

                 Developing a network early can pay dividends later. The more contacts you have upfront when job hunting the easier the process, because networking takes time

            Make sure you attend business social functions when you have time. Perform volunteer work that may develop contacts and also provide activities for your resume. The more people you know the better.

            Be “realistic” in setting your goals. Setting your goals to high may prove frustrating when implementing your plan of action to reenter the workforce.

            If you have been out of work for a long time, perform a little research on business etiquette, particularly in your field of interest. Knowing how to dress and present yourself is extremely importance and can make the difference in being hired or having to continue with the job search.

            Good self-esteem is important. If you were raising a family, you were accomplishing something important. You had commitment and talent to meet that goal successfully. If you were ill you have now recovered and on the road to total recovery. You can use these same attributes in your new career.