Is unemployment bad for your career prospects long-term? NYS Department of Labor concerns
I've been on unemployment for about 6 weeks now after getting laid off from my marketing job. While I'm grateful for the NYS Department of Labor benefits helping me pay bills, I'm starting to worry about the long-term impact on my career. Will having this gap on my resume hurt my chances with future employers? Should I be taking any job just to get off unemployment, even if it's not in my field? I'm doing my weekly claims and job search requirements but feeling anxious about how this looks to potential employers. Anyone else dealt with these concerns?
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Niko Ramsey
Unemployment gaps are much more common and accepted now than they used to be. Most employers understand that layoffs happen, especially in today's economy. Focus on staying productive during your job search - take online courses, volunteer, or do freelance work if possible. The key is being able to explain what you did during the gap when asked. Don't rush into the wrong job just to avoid unemployment - that often leads to more job hopping which looks worse on a resume.
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Anna Kerber
•That's reassuring, thank you. I have been taking some online marketing courses during this time. Should I mention those in interviews when explaining the gap?
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Seraphina Delan
I was unemployed for 4 months last year and it actually worked out well for me. I used the time to really research companies and find a better fit. When I interviewed, I was honest about the layoff and focused on what I learned during the break. Most employers respected that I was being selective rather than desperate. The NYS Department of Labor job search requirements actually helped me stay organized with my applications.
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Jabari-Jo
honestly unemployment has such a stigma but its really not that bad anymore... lots of people go through it and companies know that. just dont mention you were collecting benefits in interviews lol
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Niko Ramsey
•You don't need to hide that you received unemployment benefits - there's nothing shameful about using a program you paid into through your taxes. Just focus on your job search activities and professional development during the gap.
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Kristin Frank
UGH the whole system makes you feel like a failure even when it's not your fault! I've been dealing with NYS Department of Labor for months and the constant weekly claims and job search logs make you feel like you're doing something wrong. But honestly most hiring managers have been through unemployment themselves at some point. Don't let the bureaucracy get to your head.
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Micah Trail
If you're having trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor agents about any questions on your claim status or job search requirements, I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to them. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Really helped when I had issues with my weekly claims and couldn't get through the regular phone lines.
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Anna Kerber
•Thanks, I'll check that out. I've had some questions about my job search log requirements that I haven't been able to get answered.
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Nia Watson
Been there! The anxiety is normal but try not to overthink it. I was unemployed for 3 months and actually ended up in a better position than before. Use the time wisely and you'll be fine.
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