Whether you had to take an extended break from employment due to giving birth, divorce or other unforeseen circumstances, or whether you’re starting from scratch, many women in South Africa decide to go back to work after being in similar situations.
However, it’s not always as simple as picking up where you left off, especially if your biological clock starts counting against you. Finding a job has proven to be more difficult than anticipated for many job-seekers.
This is according to Kay Vittee, CEO of Quest Staffing Solutions – South Africa’s first recruitment agency of choice for rapid permanent and contingency staffing solutions – who highlights that most women in South Africa might battle to find employment after taking a break from the workplace for an extended period of time.
With the times changing and technology evolving as much as it does, how you job hunt is crucial to your success. Spamming recruiters and sending your CV to millions of positions is not going to be a successful endeavour.
During the G20 summit in Australia, South Africa listed the country’s low employment rate of women as one of its key challenges. It also stated that South African women are more likely to be unemployed, despite obtaining education levels that are equal to or even higher than those of men.
According to new research by Ros Altmann, the Government’s Business Champion for Older Workers, women’s careers are being ‘‘cut off’’ at 45 due to a combination of ageism and gender discrimination.
With so many disheartening factors at play, how does a woman re-enter the job market if she has been out of it for so long? Also, what are some of the key skills women need to refine before they start applying for jobs?
With the above in mind, Vittee urges women who are looking for employment in the current market, to shift their approach from the old way of applying, and adjust to modern times. She also suggests that women can incorporate the following to assist with their new job seeking approach:
1. Create a strong online presence
Get online and update your social media profiles on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook. Over 100 000 people use LinkedIn, including CEOs and HR managers. Also bear in mind that employers search for candidates online, and social media can be a powerful tool that helps you make connections.
2. Don’t just press send
Research has shown that job-seekers need to stop relying on email correspondence only. It has been proven that candidates who make an effort to follow up by phone call after sending their CV receive far more positive feedback, as this shows enthusiasm and eagerness for the job.
3. Network
As the saying goes - it’s not what you know, but who you know. Consider joining a business networking group so that you can meet and mingle with industry peers and experts. Social media platforms - like LinkedIn can be a great way of networking.
4. Continuously upgrade your skills
Employers are looking for candidates who keep their job skills current and can remain competitive in the marketplace. Consider completing a short course or workshop to gain new skills or improve existing ones. These are also great to include on your CV and may help fill the gap during your time off.
5. Redefine and know what sets you apart
Once you've made your skills relevant again, you will need to find a way to demonstrate your uniqueness and competence as a potential employee. Be clear and specific on what sets you apart from the younger or more mature candidates.
6. Go easy on yourself
Starting a job after a long career break can be challenging and even feel overwhelming at times. You will be faced with the usual stresses of getting to know people and learning the ropes, but don’t let that dishearten you. Don’t try to be superwomen, but instead play to your strengths.
“Last, but certainly not least – be bold. Remember that you were once great, and that you still are,” concludes Vittee. “Confidence goes a long way, and most companies make employment decisions based on first impressions.”
