With massive lay offs, rising unemployment and the promise of even more corporate cutbacks, right now probably doesn’t seem like the best time to launch a job search. That’s why it’s really important to remember that there is one good thing about recessions: they’re temporary.
And, unusual times sometimes call for extraordinary measures.
I’m not suggesting that you forgo traditional methods like making sure your resume and cover letter are as meticulous as they are comprehensive and winning. But, with fewer jobs available, now is not the time to hold back. It’s a battle field out there, so pull out the big guns.
Here are a few creative methods you can use – along with your traditional arsenal of job search tactics – to gain employment during a recession:
Blog. I’m not talking about taking pictures of your puppy and telling the world about your plans for the week end. Think in terms of your area of expertise and what line of work you want to enter and then blog about that. Tell stories, give advice and link to every other blogger’s site that’s related to yours.
This platform not only allows you to showcase your talent, it allows you to demonstrate your ability to effectively communicate ideas – something that could give you the edge over someone with a similar skill set. Blogging also gives you a unique format to network with other industry insiders, who can offer you career advice and possible leads. Think of it as a step up from linkedin.
Freelance. Maybe freelancing, with its unusual hours, instability and lack of benefits doesn’t sound that appealing to you. But, when you’re faced with a saturated market, it can give you an industry in that might not otherwise be available.
Think of freelancing as much more than a paycheck; think of it as an opportunity to network, pad your resume and prove yourself. Performing well, meeting your deadlines and demonstrating your abilities during a freelance project can potentially lead to full-time employment. Or, you might even fall in love with the freedom that freelancing allows and decide to make it your full-time thing.
Temp. Many people pass up on temporary work when they’re searching for a job because they’re focused on a long-term goal and the possibility of advancement. However, if you see that a temporary position has opened up at your dream company, snatch it up!
It gives you the opportunity to try a job on for size, avoid large gaps in your employment history and demonstrate your bountiful talents to a potential employer. Plus, you never know, Suzy might decide never to come back from maternity leave.
Work part time. Taking a part-time position or, heck, 2 or 3 part-time positions, can help you keep the paychecks rolling in and give you the opportunity to expand your skill set. Take part-time gigs that will help you learn new skills or that could potentially turn into a full-time position.
Plus, working a few jobs during a recession gives you a bit of added security. Should one of your jobs go belly-up, you have something else to fall back on.
Volunteer. You’ve recognized that you’re in for the long-haul when it comes to landing your next job. Why not take that time to volunteer your skills? Getting involved gives you the opportunity to keep your skills from getting rusty and can help you get to know people in your community (people who work in companies you could be working in).
Volunteering also looks great on a resume, helps explain gaps in employment and can give you the chance to continue making valuable contributions to society while you’re between jobs.
Relocate. So, your company was outsourced. Why not move with it? Seriously, while moving overseas might not be a realistic measure for most people, there are cities in The States with more jobs. The recession hasn’t hit each market with the same gusto. And, depending upon your profession, the demands of the labor force can vary greatly from region to region.
Plus, being willing to relocate suddenly expands your employment options like crazy! Stop limiting yourself geographically and discover a world of opportunities.
Change industries. It might sound drastic, but if you can’t find anything in your line of work – it might be time to get a whole new line of work. Even though a lot of industries are hurting, there are a few that are remaining steady. Some are even growing at an unprecedented rate. Take a look at the Bureau of Labor Statistics list of the fastest growing occupations and see if anything appeals to you.
Working in a growing field can offer stability, increased earning potential and more opportunities for advancement. You might be surprised at how quickly you can start working in a new field, too – some of today’s fastest growing occupations only require on-the-job-training. Lots of career and vocational schools offer fast-track programs that can prepare you for work quickly.
