Being unemployed isn’t easy, and now there’s a study that proves what many of us have suspected: hiring managers demonstrate prejudice against unemployed candidates.
While it has been argued that discrimination against unemployed individuals doesn’t happen unless the person has been out of work for a long time, this 2018 study showed that the prejudice starts almost immediately. Even people who left their job voluntarily face the same stigma as those who were laid off.
It’s difficult to say for certain why unemployed workers are less desirable, but it’s believed that they’re viewed as lazy, out of touch, or lacking talent. Surely this isn’t the case for everyone, but when hiring managers are told to find the “best” talent, they sometimes overlook those who aren’t currently employed.
How to Get Jobs in Jackson MS if You’re Employed
Millions of people are unemployed, and COVID-19 has severely impacted these numbers. Hiring managers are now more used to getting resumes from qualified individuals who are currently out of work. So, you may not face the same stigma as you would have before COVID-19.
Despite the prejudice, it’s important to note that being unemployed does have one positive effect on job seekers. They put more effort into their job searches and are more open to new opportunities. Below are some tips to help you find jobs quickly in Jackson Mississippi:
- Update your resume and cover letter
- Work with a recruiting company
- Use multiple ways to search for jobs – don’t rely solely on the job boards
- Prioritize jobs that have the salary and benefits you’re looking for
- Customize your resume based on the job you’re applying for
- Connect with and expand your network
- Practice your interview skills
How Long Does It Take to Find a Job When You’re Employed?
The length of time it takes to find a new job during unemployment is different for everyone. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average length of unemployment is 22 weeks. By following the above tips, you can hopefully shorten this time. And while you might be feeling desperate, you don’t need to apply for every job or consider openings that don’t fit your needs. It’s better to be patient and find something that works for you.
One thing to work on while you are employed is to build on your skills and experience. You can take a workshop, or sign up for an online class or volunteer position to give yourself additional experience and fill the gap in your resume. Employers will appreciate your willingness to learn new skills while being unemployed.
To be aligned with jobs in Jackson MS that fit your needs, contact Capitol Staffing. Our staffing company works with many businesses that are looking for top talent. By getting your name and information in our database, we can let you know when we find a match!