Donít ëoverexposeí your rsum in this market, recruiter warns

Job hunters and the unemployed should resist the temptation to shop their rsum around despite increasing unemployment levels, according to a leading recruiter.

Commenting on the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics labour force figures, which show that the unemployment rate has continued to steadily rise at 5.9 per cent with 495,900 people looking for full-time work in July, LINK Recruitment Practice Leader Jon Barton says that many talented workers are now on the market.

ìWhile the cream of the crop may not actively be seeking new roles, there are plenty of qualified professionals looking for work, which has increased the level of competition,î he says.

ìJob seekers should avoid shopping their rsums around, as it can cause overexposure and embarrassing double-ups. Focus instead on targeting specific employers, building a relationship with one or two trusted recruiters, and consider using a professional rsum writer.î

Barton advises employers to think seriously about taking advantage of these skilled job seekers.

ìOrganisations are still cautious to start rehiring, as the doom and gloom of four months ago has bottomed out business confidence.î

ìBusinesses across all industries have stripped to their core talent, which has cleared a platform for organisations to re-grow.î

ìAs soon as the market turns, businesses will need to look towards employing staff to meet increased work demands. Now is a great time for employers to assess the needs of their workplace and find gaps, so they can up-skill and position their business favourably for when the economy booms again.î

Barton advises employers to think about the needs of their potential employees to ensure they are in the best position to retain and attract talent.

ìEmployees want the opportunity to develop their professional skills through training and development programs, but they are also looking for flexible working conditions like the option to work from home to meet their work-life balance needs.î

ìTraining and development programs also help to engage and motivate current employees, particularly if the organisation has retrenched other staff.î

Unlike the ëwar for talentí conditions of a year ago, employers now have the upper hand and increasingly flexible applicants are willing to consider temporary and contract positions.

ìEmployers and employees shouldnít be afraid to try before they buy and use a contract role to test the fit.î