Job Hunting Adviser
Job Hunting Adviser

Proven tips for finding a job in a recession

These tips work. How do I know because my clients have used them and got jobs.  One client worked for a newspaper, got laid off and then got two job offers in publishing.  And in case you haven't been reading the news - publishing is supposed to be dead and newspapers aren't hiring!  Another client got a new job where he is making $500K doing what he loves.  And another client got three offers of work with hours of posting on twitter.  Try them and tell me what you find.  I'd love to help you get the next job.

Seven Tips for Finding a Job in a Recession

 

Whether we are mired in a deep recession, in the “green shoots” stage or rapidly rebounding out of a recession all depends on who you ask.  But as I talk to clients around the country, things are not so great and the feeling is still recessionary.

So, number one priority? Keep your job,  even if you don't like it. It makes sense to find a new job before you quit, especially with unemployment at ten percent.  Make sure you are wanted - volunteer for the key projects, keep your skill set current and forge relationships with decision makers, customers, vendors and suppliers.

But if you are laid off, had to switch jobs, or are just starting out here are some tips.

1. Look for a temp job. Often temp jobs can convert to full-time and you get great experience.

2. Be open to taking a job for which you are over qualified, but emphasize to the employer that you will fit in and add value.

3. Develop different income streams.  Make your hobbies income generating, learn a new skill and sell it.  Don't just rely on the 9-to-5 job -- be creative.

4. Cut your costs so you don't have to earn so much.  Moving to another state may mean that two incomes could become one for an uncertain period of time.

5. Be creative and widen your search.  Go for the career you always wanted.  Propose an alternative or part time work schedule that gets you in the door and reduces costs for the employer.

6. Take time to enjoy being free from work. Get re-acquainted with your family and friends, cook for yourself, and hit the health club five mornings a week to keep your energy level and spirits high.

7. Be clear that the right job is out there for you even if it seems like it's not. Have faith in yourself! There is always work for someone with skills, willing to learn and work hard -- always.

 

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A monkey could do better than some people I've interviewed - or not?

Cheeky monkeys! Some great advice for what not to do in an interview - courtesy of careerbuilder.com - not bad job site.Monkey video

Survival Jobs

Survival Jobs

Have to pay the bills until you sell that script?  Taking classes for your next career move and need some extra money?  Or have you been laid off and are still looking, but your cash is low and the mortgage is due.  You need a survival job.
In Los Angeles survival jobs are common for many people, especially those in the entertainment industry, where they are more affectionately called ‘day jobs.’  The industry joke is that every restaurant waitperson has a script or a headshot in his or her back pocket ready for that big break when a Steven Spielberg is seated at their table.
But survival doesn't only have to mean food service.  What is the secret to a good survival job?  Here are five tips to help you thrive as you survive.

1. Make as much as possible from doing as little as possible.
Harness your expertise to become a consultant.  Work as a waiter, but do so in a high-end restaurant with big tips. 

2. Look for a job with flexible hours.
You need flex time to pursue your art, go on interviews or write school papers.  9-to-5 jobs are not good for that.  Evening temp jobs such as word processing for legal firms, or working weekends at a call center provide you flexibility.

3. Balance experience with dollars.
Working as an assistant can give you great experience, fabulous contacts and amazing access to decision makers.  But it can also be a trap.  It’s comfortable; your boss likes you so you stay there two years, five or ten years. But you are not learning anything new, you are not reaching your original goals and you are probably still making peanuts.  Cut the tie and go for it!

4. Don't get sucked in.
You have fun at work.  Your boss loves you.  They offer you a promotion and more hours.  Suddenly your survival job is your life.  Great as long as that is what you really want.  It's sad to give up your dream for a dental plan and set of coworkers you like to drink with after work.

5.  Look at both sides of the equation.
Are you working three survival jobs you hate so you can live in a great neighborhood, drive a cool car or eat at fancy restaurants?  Take a quiet weekend to re-assess your values – and your budget.  Can you cut back your spending so you can cut back your work?  Get back to basics!
 


Personality Tests in Job Search

Good informaiton about personality tests in job searching.

Don't be green about green jobs

All this talk about green jobs sounds too good too be true.  But there are jobs in this new - well not so new - area.  Read More

Seven Tips for Getting Over the Recession

Seven Tips for Finding a Job in a Recession

 

Whether we are mired in a deep recession, in the “green shoots” stage or rapidly rebounding out of a recession all depends on who you ask.  But as I talk to clients around the country, things are not so great and the feeling is still recessionary.

So, number one priority? Keep your job,  even if you don't like it. It makes sense to find a new job before you quit, especially with unemployment at ten percent.  Make sure you are wanted - volunteer for the key projects, keep your skill set current and forge relationships with decision makers, customers, vendors and suppliers.

But if you are laid off, had to switch jobs, or are just starting out here are some tips.

1. Look for a temp job. Often temp jobs can convert to full-time and you get great experience.

2. Be open to taking a job for which you are over qualified, but emphasize to the employer that you will fit in and add value.

3. Develop different income streams.  Make your hobbies income generating, learn a new skill and sell it.  Don't just rely on the 9-to-5 job -- be creative.

4. Cut your costs so you don't have to earn so much.  Moving to another state may mean that two incomes could become one for an uncertain period of time.

5. Be creative and widen your search.  Go for the career you always wanted.  Propose an alternative or part time work schedule that gets you in the door and reduces costs for the employer.

6. Take time to enjoy being free from work. Get re-acquainted with your family and friends, cook for yourself, and hit the health club five mornings a week to keep your energy level and spirits high.

7. Be clear that the right job is out there for you even if it seems like it's not. Have faith in yourself! There is always work for someone with skills, willing to learn and work hard -- always.

 

Dream Jobs - how about a plumber


A jobless recovery in 2010 – what does that mean for job transition?

It looks like 2010 will be better than 2009 for jobs and for changing your career.    But some experts such as Ed Savage, managing director of the LA based division of Stanton Chase, a global executive search firm, sees that “a "jobless recovery" will be a part of our new reality particularly in heavy manufacturing, retailing, automotive, banking and home building.”


What will that mean for job transition and finding a new job?

1. Network

Finding a job is always about networking.  If there are still more people hunting for jobs than companies offering them, then you’ll need to make even more contacts and use your business relationships to get ahead.

2. Think new industries

While some industries will not see growth in new jobs some will.  Green jobs, healthcare, government (as a result of the stimulus) and some areas of technology will all grow.

3. Focus

Be clear what you want to do, do your research and plan your job hunt.  And make sure that you are focused on the possibility of a new job not the fear of not finding work in 2010.

As we move into the New Year, the economy looks more positive. Even though in some areas there may be a jobless recovery, career changers need to focus on the areas that are growing and be smart in their job hunting.

Are you green about green jobs?

Are you green about green jobs?

Find out what they are and how you can get one!


Interview questions you haven't heard before

Many interviewers keep to the same old questions: "tell me about yourself" or "what are your strengths and weaknesses".  But there are other questions which employers can ask that will get better responses.  CBS Moneywatch.com recommends these seven.  
My advice - be ready to respond to these questions and also use them as a way of showing what a great candidate you are.  Remember you don't have to wait to be asked something before you share your insights.  If your interviewer is going with the same old questions trying mixing it up by giving them some different information that really makes you shine.

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Recent Entries

  1. Proven tips for finding a job in a recession
    Saturday, February 06, 2010
  2. A monkey could do better than some people I've interviewed - or not?
    Thursday, January 28, 2010
  3. Survival Jobs
    Wednesday, January 27, 2010
  4. Personality Tests in Job Search
    Wednesday, January 27, 2010
  5. Don't be green about green jobs
    Monday, January 25, 2010
  6. Seven Tips for Getting Over the Recession
    Monday, January 25, 2010
  7. Dream Jobs - how about a plumber
    Monday, January 25, 2010
  8. A jobless recovery in 2010 – what does that mean for job transition?
    Saturday, January 02, 2010
  9. Are you green about green jobs?
    Wednesday, December 30, 2009
  10. Interview questions you haven't heard before
    Tuesday, December 08, 2009

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David Couper

David Couper is a career coach with twenty years experience. He works to make you shine and get the job of your dreams. By combining both the practical needs of a job hunt with the focus of your hearts desire he inspires and motivates you to get the career you want now.

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