If you were laid off months ago and are still looking for work, you have probably sent out more applications than you can count. You may have had a few interviews, followed up with employers and waited for replies that never came.
That can make anyone question their experience and wonder what they are doing wrong. But if your current approach is not getting results, sending even more applications may not be the answer. It may be time to change how you are searching.
Apply for the jobs that fit you best
You do not need to apply for every position you find. Focus on jobs that match your experience, availability and location, and that you would genuinely consider accepting.
Before applying, look at the schedule, commute and main requirements. You do not need to meet every qualification, but you should be able to clearly explain why your experience makes you a good candidate. Putting more effort into the right applications can be more effective than sending the same resume everywhere.
Make the connection clear
Employers should be able to look at your resume and quickly understand why you are a good fit. They may be reviewing dozens of applications, so your most relevant experience should be easy to find.
If the posting asks for high-volume experience, customer service, food safety, cash handling or staff training, make sure those skills appear clearly on your resume. Include relevant certifications such as Smart Serve, Food Handler, WHMIS or First Aid near the top instead of making the employer search for them.
You should also change the emphasis of your resume depending on the position. A hotel, restaurant, retirement residence and catering company may value different parts of your experience, even when the roles appear similar.
Look beyond your previous job title
Hospitality experience can open doors in more places than you may realize. Instead of searching only for the title you held before, search for roles that use the same skills.
Restaurant and kitchen experience can transfer into hospitals, retirement residences, catering companies, schools and corporate cafeterias. Front-desk experience can lead to customer service, reception, administration and property management, while housekeeping skills are also valuable in healthcare, facilities and building services.
The job title may be different, but many of the responsibilities will feel familiar. Searching for your skills rather than one specific title can help you find opportunities you may have missed.
Prepare to talk about the layoff
You do not need to apologize for being laid off or explain every detail of what happened. Keep your answer short, neutral and focused on what you want to do next.
You could say, “My position ended when the company reduced staffing. I’m now looking for an opportunity where I can use my experience and continue developing my skills.” Practise your answer aloud before an interview so that it feels natural and confident.
Get another person involved
After months of searching, it can be difficult to see what needs to change. A career coach or employment advisor can review your resume, help you prepare for interviews and introduce you to employers who are actively hiring.
An outside perspective may identify opportunities, transferable skills or problems with your resume that you have stopped noticing. You have already put a lot of work into your job search, and you do not have to keep doing it alone.
If you have been laid off, we have many free services to help you get back to work. Visit our website to learn more.
