Proven tips for finding a job in a 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.
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
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!
Don't be green about green jobs
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.
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.
David Couper
David Couper is an executive career coach, training and organizational design specialist, and writer who for the last twenty years has worked in Europe, Asia, and in the USA with major organizations including the BBC, Fuji Television, Sony, and Warner Bros.See my BIO in LinkedIn
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