Consider adding volunteering to
your strategic job search plan
Looking for work in a tough job market is challenging, but not impossible. The task requires job hunters to develop and execute a recession-proof job search strategy. This process begins with asking yourself a few questions.
Ask the Tough Questions
Before you develop an effective job search strategy you must ask yourself the tough questions:
- What is the future of my current field or industry?
- What are the prospects for growth in my field in my geographic area?
- Is relocation a viable option?
- Do I have the skills and knowledge needed to move forward in my current field?
- Should I be looking for ways to transfer my current skills and experience to another industry?
Do the Research
In addition to asking the tough questions, you'll need to do the research necessary to uncover the answers - whether it is what you want to hear or not. Find out which careers are considered recession-proof, even in our current ecomony.
Use this information to make wise decisions about your career. Take necessary action. This may include obtaining additional training to increase your value in your current field or to pursue a brand new career. Relocation to another region may be another viable option.
Develop a Recession-proof Job Search Strategy
Begin building a thoughtful, multi-faceted, strategic self-marketing plan.
- Recognize the importance of building your brand. Build a reputation as a knowledgable expert in your field. Demonstrate characteristics that will make you a highly desirable employee that is in demand. While technical skills and knowledge are important, soft skills are also critical. Develop a positive attitude. Strengthen your reputation as a team player.
- Market yourself to your current employer. Many organizations are tightening their belts and shedding "unnecessary" personnel. Continue to develop your skills. Cross-train whenever possible. Be willing to help others whenever the opportunity presents itself within your organization. Become a "go-to" person in your organization.
- Build a solid network. Develop relationships both inside and outside of your current organization. Join applicable trade organizations. Connect with your college alumni association. Request informational interviews.
- Volunteer in your community. Build your brand in your community and extend your network by volunteering with local organizations. This is a great way to get noticed by and make additional connections with movers and shakers in your community. Additionally, spending time focused on helping others can also relieve some of the stress of a job search.
- Don't rely on any one job search method. Develop a job search plan that incorporates multiple job search strategies. Tap into the unadvertised job market through networking and a targeted direct mailing campaign. Maximize your success with the published job market by going beyond typical newspaper job ad postings or general online job boards. Check listings in industry or trade magazines. Focus on a few, well-chosen job boards (like niche boards, regional job search boards, and a job board like SimplyHired.com which aggregates listings from several other job search boards).
Recognize that the current market will require a more exhaustive, more focused effort. Stay positive and be determined to achieve your career goals. Create and implement a recession-proof job search strategy that will get you better, faster job search results.
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