Opinion

Leslea Petersen:

Just say it as it is: Refreshed and refocused

With workers taking three weeks’ summer holiday – including the bosses – this Danish work/life balance really is the gift that keeps giving. A three-week break is refreshing and was a real surprise to me how anyone could be away from the office for that long!

What does this mean for a job-seeker though? Have you taken the opportunity to have time away from the job search? I can remember being unemployed and feeling guilty about being on holiday when I should have been looking for work and not spending any money. I now advise my clients to take a holiday without any guilt.

After a few days off, you will come back to the job search refreshed and focused. It’s a great time of year to look for jobs – Denmark has opened gradually over the last few months and companies are more than ready to interview for roles advertised during the summer. Here’s a few suggestions to help motivate you in your job search.

Unsolicited really works
Many organisations encourage unsolicited applications, so decide where you want to work (it’s a two-way decision) and do some research. What can your skills and experience add to the team? Is there a gap that fits your profile? What if the person doing the job you want decides over the summer to move on? The recruiter will have your application and it makes the replacement process easy, so start applying!

Reach out to recruiters
Don’t forget that companies want to come back and fill those empty positions quickly. So, contact the recruiter and ask how the interview process is going with all the job applications you submitted before the summer. Be prepared to be interviewed and showcase why you are the perfect choice.

Stand out outstandingly!
I see so many boring or half-filled profiles that give the hiring manager no idea who you are. You have space to show your personality and why you would be great in their team, as it’s not just about your skills and experience. Make your profile stand out. Make it easy for you to be hired.

With a fresh and renewed focus, the positivity of your applications will shine through.

Leslea Petersen

A Brit married to a Viking who landed on Danish shores 13 years ago, Leslea is the communications director of TWG-EmployMe. With over 20 years’ communications experience in both the business & not-for-profit sectors, Leslea is passionate about coaching professionals & businesses in effective communication.