Job loss, five ways to rev up a job search[SIZE=-1]Despite the bleak economic forecasts, there are jobs out there for the finding. Here are a few tips for getting organized, taking inventory of your skills, and targeting your job search. Create a networking plan Make a list of people you can seek out for help and where the opportunities might exist. "The statistics say about 80 percent of people find a new position through a contact," says Ruth Hayden, a financial planner in St. Paul, Minn. Try to figure out how your job skills could be used in areas where companies are still hiring. For example, in November companies added employees in accounting, education, and health services, according to the Labor Department. Many experts point to alternative energy and public-works infrastructure as other industries that will be hiring. Do some creative outreach Start by creating a profile on LinkedIn, a kind of MySpace for the business world, and post your résumé. Then you can send colleagues a link to your profile. Contact your alma mater's alumni and career-services offices to see if they have contacts who might help you. Decide if you need to change course If your industry is facing an uncertain future, for example, if you're in the automotive, banking, or real-estate fields, evaluate whether a career change makes sense. You might need to go back to school to learn new skills that will boost your job prospects. Search by clicks The Internet is replacing the classifieds pages in newspapers. Search for jobs at major career sites like CareerBuilder.com, Monster, and Yahoo HotJobs. Do a Google search as well?you might find sites that list employment opportunities for specific industries. We found ones for education, journalism, and philanthropy careers. Don't beat yourself up The job search can be a disheartening process, and, considering the current economic climate, it could take a while to get back to work. Remember that you're not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek advice and help. You can start at ConsumerReportsHealth.org, where you'll find information on coping with stress and depression. And stay active. "Action is always healthier than worrying," Hayden says. Posted: February 2009 *[/SIZE] [SIZE=-1]Subscribe now![/SIZE]
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