INSIDE THE 
NEWS + ADVICE
Jumpstart Your Cleared Job Search in the Face of Uncertainty or Job Loss
No one wants to imagine losing their job, but contract shifts and budget changes are an unfortunate reality in the security-cleared community. Whether your contract is ending or you’re simply sensing instability, taking proactive steps now can help you secure your next cleared opportunity more quickly and confidently.
While emotions like frustration or anxiety are natural, the best way to move forward is to focus on what you can control. Whether you’re still employed but wary of what’s ahead or already facing a transition, here’s how to get ahead of job loss and position yourself for a seamless career move.
Checklist to Get Your Cleared Job Search Ready for Takeoff
- Update your resume and online profiles with relevant skills and details.
- Network and reconnect with colleagues, mentors, and recruiters in your industry.
- Track contract awards and industry trends to identify hiring opportunities.
- Apply strategically, tailoring your resume and following up on applications.
- Prepare for interviews by practicing responses and doing your research.
- Maintain a positive mindset and focus on the bigger picture.
1. Refresh Your Resume and Online Presence
If you haven’t updated your resume in a while, there’s no time like the present. Craft an effective cleared resume to make it easy for hiring managers and recruiters to see how your skills and experience fit their needs.
Does your resume sound like a mere list of responsibilities? The best change you can make is to implement the STAR formula: Situation, Task, Action, Result.
Create one- to two-sentence accomplishment statements (in bullet point format) that describe the Situation or Task, the Actions you took, and the Results. Using this method paints a clear picture of your achievements and demonstrates your value to potential employers.
A strong resume ensures you stand out in a competitive market, and an updated online presence makes you easier to find. Upload your updated resume to your ClearedJobs.Net profile and be sure to review your profile details and key skills.
If you have a LinkedIn profile, ensure your Experience and About sections are up-to-date too. Now is a great time to request Recommendations on your profile from a few trusted colleagues or mentors.
As you put your marketing materials together, be mindful of security considerations. You can safely include your clearance level on your ClearedJobs.Net profile or on the resume you hand out at a Cleared Job Fair, but leave it off your public profiles like LinkedIn.
2. Leverage Your Network Immediately
Your network is one of your most valuable assets when navigating job loss or uncertainty. Personal connections are the key to unlocking the hidden job market, securing crucial intel about employers of interest, and gaining referrals. So start reconnecting with past colleagues, mentors, and industry connections immediately.
Reaching out can feel awkward if you haven’t kept in touch, but a simple message checking in on past coworkers can open doors that lead to fruitful discussions. You don’t want to ask for favors right out of the gate. Networking is a two-way street.
Ask about their current projects, mention you’re keeping an eye on the market, and express interest in staying connected. If one of your network connections is employed at a company of interest, ask them what it’s like working there and if they enjoy it.
As you reconnect with your network, use these conversations to get your references in order. Send a copy of your resume, let them know what types of jobs you’re pursuing, and secure their permission to be used as a reference in your job search.
Keep in mind, that recruiters also play a key role in a successful job search. If you haven’t built relationships with recruiters specializing in cleared roles, start now. Attend industry events, both virtual and in person.
Job fairs are prime opportunities to connect with recruiters. Even if they don’t have the right position for you today, follow up and nurture your new network connection. Recruiters often have insights into upcoming contracts and job openings. Plus, the perfect job requisition may hit their desk tomorrow, leading to a win-win sooner rather than later.
3. Research Companies and Contracts
Understanding where promising opportunities exist can give you a competitive edge. The more you know about contract awards, industry trends, and hiring patterns, the better positioned you’ll be to make a move when necessary.
Start by tracking major contract wins, particularly in your area of expertise. New awards often mean hiring surges, and companies may be actively looking for talent before contracts are officially awarded. If you’re currently employed, a contingent position may be of particular interest as you weigh your next career move.
In addition to tracking contract awards and asking your network for intel, use social media to keep an eye on the market. Follow your target employers to stay abreast of new opportunities and developments. Or leverage resources like the Security Cleared Jobs: Who’s Hiring & How podcast for a peek behind the curtain at companies of interest.
As you begin applying and connecting with company representatives, you’ll be a more informed candidate if you’ve done your due diligence. Expressing you’re excited to learn more about their company because you saw they won X contract or were impressed with something you learned about their company in a blog or podcast will make you stand out from the pack.
4. Apply Strategically, Not Frantically
A rushed job search typically equals wasted time. Even if a sudden job loss means you needed a job yesterday, remember that slow is fast, and fast is slow.
Applying to any and every job without a strategy can lead to frustration and missed opportunities. Instead, be deliberate in your approach to maximize your chances of landing a role that aligns with your skills and career goals.
When submitting applications, take time to customize your resume and cover letter for each role. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t always get the job done. Employers are looking for candidates who demonstrate a clear understanding of the job requirements. The T-format cover letter is a useful tool to help you highlight how your skills and experience meet the employer’s specific needs.
After submitting applications, follow up proactively. If you haven’t heard back after a week, send a polite email to express your continued interest. Demonstrating enthusiasm and persistence can help keep your application at the top of the pile.
You can also find recruiters on LinkedIn and message them to let them know you’ve applied to their position. But don’t ask to simply set up a time to talk.
Be specific and say something like, “I noticed you posted X position. I went ahead and applied for it. Let me know if there’s anything else you need from me.” When there is a lot of competition, a proactive approach like this increases your likelihood of being noticed.
5. Prepare for Interviews with Confidence
Whether it’s a recruiter pre-screen call or a panel interview, preparation is key. Be prepared to discuss your previous roles and successes. Recruiters and hiring managers appreciate candidates who can articulate how their experience aligns with the company’s needs.
Practicing common interview questions can also give you a leg up. If possible, conduct mock interviews with a trusted colleague or mentor to refine your responses.
You can expect to be asked questions like:
- Can you tell me a little about yourself?
- What do you know about our company?
- Why do you want to work here?
- Where do you want to be 10 years from now?
Finally, remember that interviews are a two-way conversation. Ask thoughtful questions to not only demonstrate your interest but also to help determine if the position is the right fit for you.
Consider asking questions like:
- Where do you see me fitting in with the team?
- Can you describe the company culture?
- What are the main challenges the team is currently facing?
- What opportunities for professional development do you offer?
- What are the company’s plans for growth?
- What are the next steps in the interview process?
6. Maintain a Positive Mindset
Staying professional is crucial, even in the face of uncertainty or sudden job loss. Leaving your former employer on good terms preserves your reputation and keeps the door open for future opportunities. Express gratitude for the experience and avoid burning bridges with colleagues or managers.
Taking care of yourself during this time is just as important as your job search. Stress management, exercise, and a strong support system can help you stay focused and motivated. Job hunting can be a process, and maintaining resilience will help you navigate it successfully.
Lastly, keep things in perspective. Many professionals in the cleared community go through job loss and transitions, and with preparation, you can turn this challenge into a step forward in your career.
A job loss doesn’t define you—but how you respond to it can shape your next career chapter. Get ahead of uncertainty, take control, and turn this challenge into an opportunity for professional growth.
