Planning a Successful Job Search in a Weak Market by Nora Hess

Launching a job search is never easy but in a weak market it can be especially frustrating. The national unemployment rate jumped from 4.9% in January 2008 to a 16 year high of 7.2% in January 2009. This means that 11 million Americans are seeking work. Whatever the reasons for the downturn, the reality is a job market that is fiercely competitive.

What can a job seeker do to stack the odds in his favor? Whether you are a recent graduate seeking your first job or a seasoned professional whose company has downsized, the key to a successful job search in a weak market is your ability to tap unadvertised job opportunities, get your foot in the door and sell yourself. As only 10%-15% of jobs are listed, this will require some creativity. It is important to stay focused, know what you want and what you bring to the table. In a down economy it is important to find a job you can keep. Here are some tips to help you plan your job search effectively.

Don't panic. If you are recently laid off this is not the time to wallow or lose your nerve. There are always jobs despite doom and gloom in the news. You just have to get creative in digging them up. If it gets too depressing, turn off the news reports on TV and stop reading the paper. Do not discuss your job search with negative people. You have a big enough challenge ahead of you without nay-sayers telling you it is all hopeless.

Do a thorough self evaluation. It is one thing to just get a job because you need money, but if work is takes up half your waking hours it should be something you really want. People who get paid for work they love are truly blessed. However it isn't fate that designs your career, it is you. If you do not know what you want, brainstorm for things that fire your passions. For instance, if you love clothes and give great fashion advice, you could be an image consultant in the making. Don't worry about qualifications at this point. Just make your wish list.

Now that you have an idea of what you want to do, take inventory of your skills. Write down everything you can do, from typing a report to answering a phone. Anything that you have learned to do from any job, class or volunteer work counts. This is especially important if you have been a full time mom, and out of the work force for several years. You will be amazed at the number of transferable skills that you have. Use this list to form a functional resume that showcases your skills and accomplishments rather than specific dates of employment. The type of resume that is most effective will depend on what you are looking for. A functional resume focuses on skills. It works best when you have been absent from the work force or have a sketchy work history. It is also the best choice if you are changing fields as it shows skills that are applicable in several different jobs. A chronological resume showing positions and dates works best if you have a solid employment history and are searching for a similar job in your field. Many job seekers use elements of both.

Once you have a resume you are happy with you can start posting it on line. There are probably hundreds of job sites on the net. Try to find one that specializes in the type of job you are looking for. This is a good place to start your research to see who is hiring in your area. Then start applying. Get your resume into the hands of as many employers as you can who are hiring for the type of position you want. Make sure you are qualified for the positions you apply for, but be flexible. Many of the skills you have will be transferable, but you will still need to prove you can do the job in the interview.

Above all stay positive and focused. You should be spending as much time in your job search as you would at an actual job. The time you invest in planning, preparation and research will give you the edge you need in a competitive market. Never accept that there are no jobs. Even in the weakest economy there are always jobs. They go to the ones who want them the most and are willing to do the work to get them.

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