How to Find a Job After Long-Term Unemployment

Four adults sitting in a row preparing for job interviews, representing Generation Australia’s employment programs

In today’s competitive job market, bouncing back from long-term unemployment can be a daunting task. Whether you’ve taken a hiatus, faced personal challenges, or struggled to find work due to economic downturns, it’s essential to approach your job search with confidence and strategy. This article provides actionable steps for re-entering the workforce and securing meaningful employment, even after a prolonged absence. Let’s get started.

Self-Assessment and Upskilling

Before diving into the job market, take a moment to assess your current skills and qualifications.

  • Identify gaps: What skills or knowledge might you be lacking compared to current job market demands?
  • Upskill: Consider taking online courses or attending workshops to enhance your skill set. Websites like Coursera or Udemy offer a wide range of courses in various fields. Here at Generation, we partner with employers to reskill workers for new, in-demand roles, either at their current workplace or in a different industry altogether. Explore our free employment programs today to see how we can help you build skills and gain employment.

Revamp Your CV

Your CV is the first impression you’ll make on potential employers, so it’s crucial to get it right.

  • Focus on achievements: Highlight any accomplishments or projects you’ve worked on during your unemployment.
  • Include freelance or voluntary work: If you’ve done any freelance or voluntary work during your break, be sure to include it.
  • Highlight relevant skills: Consider using a functional CV format, which emphasises skills over chronological work history.

Engage in Networking

Networking is a powerful tool in the job search process, especially when you’ve been out of the loop for a while.

  • Reconnect: Reach out to former colleagues, friends or acquaintances in your industry.
  • Join professional groups: Websites like LinkedIn have numerous groups related to specific industries or job roles.
  • Attend seminars or workshops: These can be excellent places to meet potential employers or get referrals.

Prepare for the Interview

Being out of the job market for a while might mean you’re out of practice when it comes to interviews.

  • Research: Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and developments in your industry.
  • Practice with mock interviews: Practice with a friend or family member to get feedback and improve.
  • Address the gap: Be prepared to discuss your unemployment period. Frame it positively, focusing on what you learned or achieved during that time.

Consider Temporary or Part-Time Roles

If you’re finding it challenging to secure a full-time position immediately in the role you want, it can help to take a step back and re-evaluate your options.

  • Start small: Temporary or part-time roles can be a stepping stone to full-time employment. Entry-level roles can also be an important part of your progression to a more advanced position.
  • Gain experience: These roles can help you get back into the rhythm of working and update your CV with recent experience.

Stay Positive and Persistent

Rejection is a part of any job search, especially if you’ve been unemployed for a long time.

  • Stay resilient: Don’t get disheartened by rejections. Each ‘no’ brings you one step closer to a ‘yes’.
  • Seek feedback: If you’re not selected after an interview, politely ask for feedback. This can provide valuable insights for your next application.

Seek Help With Your Job Search

There are many organisations and agencies that offer support and guidance for individuals returning to work after long-term unemployment.

  • Recruitment agencies: They can provide tailored advice and access to job opportunities that might not be publicly advertised.
  • Career counsellors: They can offer guidance on career paths, CV writing and interview techniques.

If you’re looking for structured support in your job search, consider exploring employment programs offered by Generation Australia. We provide free, hands-on training designed to help people transition back into the workforce with confidence. Our programs focus on in-demand jobs across Australia, including roles in tech, care and more.

Through our programs, adults of all ages, whether unemployed, underemployed or needing to learn new skills, can access free training, personalised support and a clear path to meaningful employment. At Generation Australia, we focus on fast-growing industries like technology and the care sector, giving you practical skills that employers are hiring for right now. Since 2019, we’ve supported thousands of Australians into life-changing careers. Along the way, you’ll have access to mentorship, coaching and wrap-around services to help you succeed. With our network of hiring partners, we’ll support you to access potential employment opportunities once you complete your program.

Returning to the workforce after long-term unemployment is undoubtedly challenging. With determination, upskilling and the right approach, it’s entirely achievable. Remember, everyone’s career path is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Stay positive, be persistent and believe in yourself.

Don’t let long-term unemployment define your career. Take the next step in your job search journey by exploring employment programs at Generation. Your next opportunity awaits.

At Generation Australia, our mission is to train, support and place people into otherwise inaccessible career opportunities that can change their lives. Explore our employment programs to see how we can help you, or donate today to help us create career opportunities for our learners.