subject: How To Find A Job In Today's Economy [print this page] How To Find A Job In Today's Economy How To Find A Job In Today's Economy
With the US economy in the most serious shape since the Great Depression and unemployment hovering steadily right around 10%, being unemployed or suddenly becoming unemployed is one of the worst things that can happen. Over the last couple of years, the average job search has been between 4 and 6 months, however it is quite common to find people who have been out of work for a year or more.
The good news is, though, that finding a good job isn't impossible, and I don't mean slinging fries at McDonalds for a fraction of what you used to make. Even a brief glance at your daily paper or any of the online job sites will demonstrate that people are hiring, and this is good. Of course the down side is that there are a LOT of people going after that same position, probably much more competition than at any time in the past. If you work it right, however, you can be the one that makes the cut. So how do you stand out and make the perfect impression in a crowded job market? Some tips which I will personally testify to:
Okay, you're unemployed. Right now, consider looking for a job to BE your job. Treat it that way. Keep detailed records of everywhere you have applied and who you have talked to, as well as all correspondence and/or follow up. If you are not usually this organized, then you should become organized. It will eliminate a lot of your frustration.
Update your resume. It might be a good idea to hire a professional resume writer to go over it with you and make it as sharp and informative as possible, highlighting your talents and what you can offer an employer. Be sure to include reference letters from past employers or teachers. Make it an impressive, eye catching presentation of your talents and abilities.
You don't have because you don't ask. Networking is the key in this process. Tell everyone you know (or meet) that you're looking for a job. You'd be surprised at how many professional relationships begin out of conversations that began "Well, I know this guy.". Don't be shy; mention it at every opportunity.
Contact past employers, co-workers, or friends and tell them about your situation. The more people who are aware of your needs, the better off you will be. On the very first day of my job search, I received a referral from a friend who is a business owner. The referral looked very promising; I had actually gone in for a couple of training sessions when another company bought them out and what would have been my job was cut. Yes, it was frustrating, but it did demonstrate how easy a potential opportunity can drop in your lap.
Make good use of social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Linkdin, etc., and by that I don't mean keeping your status updated hourly. This is the current wave, with the opportunity for getting your name out to a great many people greater now than at any point in history.
Use the power of the internet. Online job postings are usually more current than their printed counterparts, since online posts can be removed as soon as the job has been filled (unlike a print ad, which stays out there forever). Some internet sites are better for different sources. CraigsList is an excellent source for finding someone in the artistic or creative community, but probably not the place where you'd want to find your next CEO. Many sites such as monster.com or careerfinder offer many different categories of jobs to search through.
If you do use the printed medium, make it the Sunday paper employment section. It will be the single largest one of the week, with the most varied choices to pick from.
Attend job fairs, but be realistic. Despite the advertising, you will probably not get picked up "on the spot". I have yet to meet a person that got a job through a job fair. It is, however, a great way to find out what companies are in your area, and pursue them from there.
Contact recruiters or "headhunters" to assist you in your job search. Agencies can often prove invaluable for finding employment, even if it is only temporary to get you through for the time being. The downside at the moment: recruiters are also overrun with people seeking their services. Getting on board with a recruiter may be just as difficult of a process as finding a job.
Set goals, daily, and weekly, and make sure you reach them. Apply to X number of jobs each day (or week, because we all know that some days it just seems like there isn't anything out there). Contact a certain number of people or companies. Be patient and be tenacious.
Consider going back to school. You've got the time, so you should make use of it to improve yourself and add to your list of marketable skills. Classes are available through your local community college, and many courses are available online. If you haven't completed your degree, do so now.
The situation may be bleak, but it is not hopeless. Patience and persistence will get you there. Remember, you may get a lot of "no's", but it only takes one "yes" to change everything. That is your goal.
