With the U.S. economy facing its toughest challenges since the Great Depression and unemployment hovering around 10%, being unemployed or suddenly losing your job can be one of the hardest experiences. In recent years, the average job search has lasted between 4 and 6 months, and many people remain unemployed for a year or more.
However, the good news is that finding a good job is still possible. And no, it doesn’t mean taking a minimum-wage job like flipping burgers for a fraction of your previous salary. A quick look at online job boards or your local paper will show that companies are hiring, which is encouraging. The downside? There's a lot of competition for every open position, likely more than ever before. But if you approach your job search strategically, you can be the one who stands out and gets the offer. Here are some tips I’ve personally found helpful:
Treat Your Job Search Like a Job
If you're currently unemployed, think of finding a job as your full-time job. Keep detailed records of every company you apply to, who you’ve spoken to, and any follow-up actions or correspondence. If you're not naturally organized, now is the time to get organized—this will reduce a lot of unnecessary frustration.
Update Your Resume
Consider working with a professional resume writer to help you sharpen and refine your resume. Make sure it highlights your skills, talents, and what you can offer to potential employers. Include reference letters from previous bosses or instructors. Your resume should be a compelling presentation of your abilities.
The Power of Networking
Networking is key to any successful job search. Tell everyone you know that you’re looking for work. You’d be surprised how many opportunities arise from casual conversations that start with, “I know someone who...”. Don’t be shy—bring it up at every chance.
Reach out to former employers, colleagues, or friends to let them know you're looking. The more people who know about your situation, the better your chances of finding a lead. For example, on the first day of my job search, a friend gave me a referral for a position. While it didn’t pan out due to unforeseen circumstances, it showed how quickly an opportunity can arise.
Leverage Social Media
Make good use of social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter—not to update your status hourly, but to let your network know you're in the market for a job. Social media allows you to get your name and resume in front of more people than ever before.
Use Online Job Boards
The internet is a powerful tool for job hunting. Online job boards like Monster, CareerBuilder, or Indeed often have more current listings than print ads, which can remain visible long after the job is filled. Different platforms cater to different industries, so choose wisely. For example, Craigslist is a great place to find creative opportunities but not ideal for executive-level positions.
Use Print Ads Strategically
If you do use print, make the Sunday edition your focus. The employment section will be the largest, offering the most diverse opportunities.
Attend Job Fairs (With Realistic Expectations)
Job fairs can be useful for discovering which companies are hiring in your area. However, don't expect to be hired on the spot. I’ve yet to meet someone who landed a job directly through a job fair, but it’s a great place to gather information.
Contact Recruiters
Recruiters and staffing agencies can be helpful in your job search, even for temporary work. However, recruiters are overwhelmed with applicants right now, so working with them can be as challenging as finding a job on your own.
Set Goals and Stay Organized
Set daily and weekly goals for your job search. Apply to a specific number of jobs each day or week and contact a set number of people or companies. Be patient and persistent—job searching is often a marathon, not a sprint.
Consider Continuing Education
If you’re struggling to find work, consider going back to school to improve your skills. Many courses are available online, or you can check out programs at your local community college. If you haven’t finished your degree, now might be the perfect time to complete it.
The job market may be tough, but it’s not hopeless. Patience and persistence are key. Remember, you may face many “NOs,” but it only takes one “YES” to turn everything around. That’s your goal.
Best of luck in your job search!