Support Groups For Unemployed Workers
Job support groups have gained momentum.
With the right group, you can easily enjoy networking opportunities and effective career advice that will get you that much closer to a job offer.
However, sometimes these groups start off with good intentions and quickly veer into the dark side-especially when many in the group have been unemployed for months.
Cynicism sets in and spreads like cancer.
To avoid a negative situation, be on the lookout for the following signs, and run away if:
For example:
For example, offering feedback on their resume or participating in a mock interview.
That said, refrain from doing social activities together (e.
g.
going to the movies).
If you become too friendly with other participants, you may be hesitant to offer tough, honest advice.
Or the group member may close herself off to your advice because she now views you as a friend.
Sitting back and waiting for the phone to ring won't bring you closer to a job offer.
For this reason, a job support group can work in your best interest.
The key is to select a group where the atmosphere is geared towards progression, not looking backwards.
With the right group, you can easily enjoy networking opportunities and effective career advice that will get you that much closer to a job offer.
However, sometimes these groups start off with good intentions and quickly veer into the dark side-especially when many in the group have been unemployed for months.
Cynicism sets in and spreads like cancer.
To avoid a negative situation, be on the lookout for the following signs, and run away if:
- Members' contributions are based solely on sharing "war stories.
" Chances are, you are already down about your job search.
The last thing you need is another job seeker adding unnecessary stress. - Members don't actively participate and you are the only one dispensing advice and encouragement.
The support group should be a give-and-take. - The only reason you attend the meeting is to drink a cafe latte.
Support groups do have a social aspect, but it's not the main focus. - Over time you start to lose respect for the participants.
If you feel that the advice you receive isn't well thought out, don't stick around.
For example:
- Email everyone a loose agenda for the meeting.
Loose means that the group can only use it when there is a lull or a negative lull in the meeting, so you'll have something to fall back on. - Make an attempt not to wallow in pessimism and bring the group down.
Think of at least one positive thing you want to contribute.
For example, offering feedback on their resume or participating in a mock interview.
That said, refrain from doing social activities together (e.
g.
going to the movies).
If you become too friendly with other participants, you may be hesitant to offer tough, honest advice.
Or the group member may close herself off to your advice because she now views you as a friend.
Sitting back and waiting for the phone to ring won't bring you closer to a job offer.
For this reason, a job support group can work in your best interest.
The key is to select a group where the atmosphere is geared towards progression, not looking backwards.
