The Labor Department reported on Thursday that the American economy shed 467,000 jobs last month, and the unemployment rate rose to 9.5 percent, its highest level in 26 years. Depressing? Yes. Makes you want to ask for a life line. If only life were a game show.
Many Americans are going to give up on their job search after they hear this news. Others will recognize this means they have to kick their job searches up a notch. Here are some tips for those of you who fall into the second group.
Unplug – Step away from your computers and start making real connections. Most of 875 people you have listed on Facebook are not really your friends, nor will they be of much assistance in your search. Instead, start setting up face-to-face meetings with people who can connect you with hiring managers.
Take the chip off your shoulder – The only person that cares that you’ve been out of work for 18 months is you. There isn’t a person on the planet who is not aware of what is going on the economy. Be prepared to say what you’ve been doing during your period of unemployment and move on.
Invest – It may seem counter-intuitive to spend money when you are out of work. But what if this investment gave you a return that was life-long, instead of the buzz you just received from drinking your Starbucks latte? Investing in a Job Search Mentor and a new interview suit is money well spent.
Job searching in this economy is like running a marathon. You need to pace yourself so that you make it to the finish line. When you do, be sure to extend your hand and help someone else over the finish line. Together, we can get people back to work.
