Strategies To Deal with Unemployment Part II

In this second installment of "Strategies To Deal With Unemployment" we will examine Job Search Techniques and Networking. In an employer's market it is critical that you have excellent job searching techniques. Gone are the days of going to websites like CareerBuilder, Monster, and HotJobs and posting your resume and getting calls for interviews right away. If you need to start a job search consider the following solutions:

(1) Go directly to the websites of companies that you are interested in. (There are jobs that are posted internally that are never posted to the public.)

(2) Utilize community resources such as churches and libraries! Many churches have career ministries that are comprised of volunteers who are either business professionals or human resources professionals. Their insights can be invaluable to job hunters. Your local library can be an excellent resource to fuel your job search. The library has computers that are FREE for public use for those who do not have a home computer. They have a wealth of material available such as online resources, and books. Many libraries are bringing in professionals to speak on career related topics. You can find out pointers on resume writing and interviewing which can help you during your job search.

(3) Networking with everyone you can network with. Start off with family and friends and let them know the type of job that you are seeking. Instead of it being just you involved in your job search you will develop a team to assist you in this process. If you are a member of any professional organizations seek the help of the organization. For recent college graduates who are searching for employment continue to network with college job placement offices and alumni associations. If you have a lot of pride and prefer not to network with people who know. You may consider networking within talent communities such as BrightFuse.com or Linkedin. Both websites give you an opportunity to post an online resume with a picture of yourself. You can network with colleagues within your industry an earn recommendations.

Ultimately, a job search in today's times requires creativity and a variety of activities. Check back next Tuesday when we will examine Setting Goals while you are unemployed.