Recession Info Center: Recession Information

Recession Info Center

Recession tips: Job search during recession:

Searching for a new job during the ongoing recession is not easy. There are many
obstacles: greater competition, lower demand for labor, and the general frustration that sets
in after a while when you look for job without any results. A number of steps can make
your job search easier:

Know the industries you are applying to: Before sending your applications, it is
important to develop a broad understanding of the industry or industries you are
applying to. Understanding the challenges businesses face in this environment and
showcasing your abilities accordingly can go a long way in making your job easier.
It is also helpful if you have an understanding of the industries that still experience
job growth or are less impacted by the downturn.

Plan and set a deadline: Make a plan. Decide on how many applications you want
to send every day. Set goals and deadlines. Keep in mind that finding a job takes
effort and time. Know how much time do you have and willing to spend on job
search. Naturally, the search process is likely to take much longer in the current
environment and generally the better the position you are looking for, the longer it is
likely to take.

Diversify your application process: Try different approaches to job hunting.
Diversify your application process using modern and old tools such as internet
search engines, recruiting agencies, workshops, unemployment office, companies’
website and mail.

View it as a challenge: Think of the job hunting process as a challenge, and while
you should keep yourself constantly updated about the state of the economy and the
challenges facing the areas you are interested, try to keep your spirits up. Develop a
strategy and focus.

Target your resume: As much as possible, try to avoid sending standard resumes
to every employer you find. Targeted resumes that instantly relate your previous
experience to the position that you are applying are likely to be more effective

Focus on contribution: All your skills and degrees might not mean anything when
companies do not hire. But if you market yourself as a person who can provide
added value in the current conditions, you are more likely to attract employers.
Highlight in your resume on projects that you contributed to that generated revenue,
added value, or improved business development.

Be flexible: It is often easier to find part-time or temporary jobs than full-time
positions during recession. But part-time positions often provide you with an
opportunity to get your foot in the door of a company, while at the same time
provide you with something more to add to your resume, instead of having to explain
large gaps in the resume. Also, as much as possible, be flexible on location and the
type of job you are willing to do.

Prepare for interview: In the current competitive job market, it is critical to take
every good opportunity seriously. If you get an interview, treat it very seriously.
Prepare yourself by practicing and rehearsing to perfection. You do not want the
opportunity go by.

Rely on networking: Networking is very crucial during tight job market. If you
have created it, you are in a better shape. Networking may be your ticket to a new
job especially during bad economy when the only way you can get interview is
through knowing someone who is working there. If you for some reason have not
created yet, it is not too late to start one. There are many ways to build contacts.
Events such as workshops, community organization events, industry events, or
other social events as well as social networking sites are good places to start.

Stay optimistic: As much as it may sounds cliché, it is critical to keep your spirit up
during these times. Tough economic times often provide new opportunities. Keep in
mind that many people have been in the same situation before you and lived through
it. And so you can too.

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