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They're Shoving Me Out The Door: They're Shoving Me Out The Door From reading the paper, you would think that the worst of this economic situation is behind us and we'll soon be back to normal. No way. I just found out that as part of a corporate restructuring to save money, my division is being closed and I'm going to be laid off. I'll get a separation package, but that won't last long. Given the rising unemployment rate, I know it's going to be tough to get a good job. I'm dreading the thought of losing my income, my benefits and my professional standing. It's been years since I've been in the job market and I just don't know what to do. Traditional System response: Just dealt a pink slip from your company's last sweep of layoffs? Find a new job in a tough economy with these tips: 1) Consider relocating: The job market may be oversaturated in your current city, but there may be openings in your area of expertise elsewhere. Remain open to different locations and company structures. Widening your job search horizons may help you find a job more quickly than if you restrict your search to one particular area or company structure. 2) Expect to be searching for the long haul: These days, it's taking longer for the average professional or managerial worker to get a new job. While it's possible that you may find something right away, it's best that you develop a long-term financial backup plan. What kind of side work could you do to ensure you still have money flowing in? How could you reduce your expenses? Put money aside now while you can; you'll need it later. 3) Keep your spirits up: Be aware that what you are going through is not easy, and that many of the things you are experiencing are being experienced by just about everybody else. Don't let the loss of one job fool you into thinking you won't be great at a job somewhere else. Nothing is forever. Just hang in there, get a fresh start, and remember that you will find something eventually. 4) Develop new skills: If you suspect your old skills are out-of-date, use your out-of-work time to develop new ones. If you're being told you aren't being hired because you don't have the right experience, get the experience. Depending on your area of expertise, there are lots of great ways to hone and expand your skills. Take a class, do volunteer work to gain expertise that you can later market, or join an association related to your new skill area. 5) Become a skilled job hunter: Being good at your job does not necessarily mean that you will be good at getting jobs. Good job hunters know what they want, what the market wants, and how to present themselves. Having a well-written résumé and cover letter are key to being competitive when job hunting. A poorly crafted resume or cover letter can prevent you from ever getting your foot in the door at most businesses, particularly in an economy that is flooded with people looking for jobs. If you don't think that your résumé and cover letter are up to par, find someone to help you write them or visit any of the myriad websites set up to help people out with résumé and cover letter writing. If it's been a while since you've been in the job market, it may be time to brush up on your online job hunting skills. Familiarize yourself with online services such as Monster.com, Craigslist and LinkedIn. Check for job postings every day and Google yourself to see what (if any) information may be available for a potential employer to find out about you online. If you are turned down for a position, use the opportunity to find out from your interviewer in which areas you should improve. Get as much detail as possible regarding what influenced their decision not to go with you. This information will be invaluable as you continue your search. Following up is a great way to turn a job interview into a job offer, and if you aren't fortunate enough to do that, you can at least get some great feedback that will help you in your search. Secrets of the Hidden Job Market: Change Your Thinking to Get the Job of Your Dreams For more information about LA Works, contact Sandy Meza, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist |
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