The most important thing to do is to catch your breath and understand that you are going to be OK. It’s very likely your next job will be better than the one you just left. We strongly recommend you take some time to develop a strategy to re-enter the workforce. You can do it alone or consider hiring a consultant to coach you through this process.

There is a direct correlation between your strategy, the work you put into the strategy and amount of time it takes to reenter the workforce. Some research indicates it takes one month for every $10,000 of pay you are seeking. For example, if you previously earned $60,000 / year it may take you 6 months to reenter the workforce. The bottom line is this: You actually have a job and it is to get up everyday and work toward finding your next job!

8-10 seconds…that’s it! This is why it’s worth the investment to have a professional assist you in the preparation of your resume. It’s our job to know the standards and trends for resumes, interviewing skills and using the latest technology to find jobs.

Yes. A resume should be no longer than two pages.

You should begin with your work experience as an Adult.

Yes! It may surprise you that when using a search engine more than 800 resumes may be generated for a single opening. The screening option allows the viewer to input “key” words that will either select the resume or kick out the resume. This is why it is so important to have a professional view your resume prior to broadcasting to the Internet or general public.

You should arrive 10 to 15 minutes prior to your interview. Here’s the rule: If you’re “on time” you are late and if you are late, you are forgotten.

Keep in mind, if someone interviews you they are saying you are the most important thing taking place in their life at that time. When you send a hand written note it speaks volumes to the interviewer and it makes an impression that will boost your rating in their evaluation. Keep it simple and gracious.

Networking is by far the most effective way to secure employment in the least amount of time. Networking is the ability to meet and connect with someone you would have not met otherwise. This is one reason why social media sites such as LinkedIn and Facebook should be a part of your strategy to reenter the workforce. A coach can work with you on skills and tactics that will help you set yourself apart from other applicants.

The money you will spend on career coaching services will pay dividends in assisting you to re-enter the workforce that much sooner. A coach will save you time and help set you apart from candidates. Sure, you can get a job without one, but it sure is nice to have someone encouraging you and helping you look for opportunities.