I've been made redundant from my senior manager position, something that doesn't surprise me in the current economic climate as my sector has been badly affected by the fall in oil prices. I need to find a new job fast; otherwise I will have to leave the UAE with my family. What is the best way to stand out at a time when employers are cautious about hiring? And is this a time to be flexible on the package offered? KJ, Abu Dhabi
We are all aware of the challenges in this current market and the impact of oil prices on the entire region. Many organisations are making changes, restructuring and even closing departments because of a gloomy economic outlook. Redundancy is a scary situation to find yourself in and it can put a dent in anyone’s self-esteem.
While situations like this do provoke some anxiety increased by the need to find a new job to remain in the UAE with your family, if you are able to stay focused and approach the situation wisely, then this may be an opportunity for growth and a welcome change of direction into a new sector. Remember although recruitment may feel slower, organisations even when tightening belts still need to bring experienced people on board.
So during a cautious recruitment period, what can you do to set yourself apart from others? Here are a few ideas.
The first way to set yourself apart from the critical mass of applicants is to look at the firms that are hiring and identify which companies you would really want to work for and why. Focus on your career goals, your purpose and what makes you feel alive. This may sound counter-intuitive at a time when you are under pressure to find something new, but my belief is if you spend your time focusing on companies you have a strong desire to work for, you are more likely to display the energy and enthusiasm required to get through the door; especially if you are moving into a new sector.
Once you have identified a target list, the next way to stand out is to re-engineer how you look on paper. Don’t just fire off an existing CV in haste. If you have not had to apply for a job in the past few years, the rules of engagement have changed. The shift has moved from a dull, chronological list of achievements and past experiences to stylishly highlighting the skills, qualities and achievements that are relevant to your new potential employer. Think about what specifically you could bring to this role, in this region and also do your research and consider what you can offer the organisation.
Once you have your target list prepared and have sent out a relevant and focused CV for each employer (possibly shifting the focus each time), the next step is to prepare yourself for interviews. Typically companies will seek to understand your strengths, weaknesses and whether you will fit with the organisation – but they also want to get to know you. Prepare well for this, but again articulate your strengths in context. For example, if you are creative or proactive, how has that helped you deliver results in the past? At the moment, companies are looking for the best bang for their buck, and everything needs to be focused and targeted. Equally understand the company you are interviewing for, read up on it and ask relevant questions. I’d advise arriving at each interview early so you can spend some time in the coffee shop or foyer to get a feel for the vibe.
In terms of flexibility on the package, I think there are two things to consider. Firstly, you need to find a new job to stay here, and secondly you may need move to a new sector. Both these elements indicate a need for some degree of negotiation. However, I also believe that if you find the right company that you are excited about, there may be some give and take that can result in long-term growth and satisfaction. However, if this is the case I would suggest you make it explicit after you receive any offers that you are prepared to be flexible, but have certain expectations that would need to be met in the near future. Always try and start as you mean to go on.
Doctor’s prescription
Bouncing back from this situation and finding a new job is your No 1 priority, but don’t react in haste. Identify the companies you want to work for, prepare a CV that is focused and relevant and think carefully about the interview. Focus on finding something that will make you happy and your attributes will help you stand out. Settling for a quick fix may leave you as just another CV at the bottom of the pile.
Alex Davda is a business psychologist and consultant at Ashridge Executive Education, Hult International Business School, and is based in the Middle East. Email him at business@thenational.ae for advice on any work issues.
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