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Finding a Job in a Down Market
Yes, the economy has slowed and many people have lost their jobs. But try not to
be discouraged. If you’re looking, you can still find a job that’s right for you. But
you may have to be a little more imaginative than when the economy is on the upswing.
First and foremost, don’t panic. Panic and desperation only fuel more panic and
desperation. Take a deep breath and feel confident that you’ll find something, a job that
you enjoy. And remember that there is no typical career path anymore. Your path isn’t
going to be a straight line-but curvy, with lots of twist and turns.
For more advice on finding a job when times are tough, we spoke to Marilyn
Mackes, the executive director of the National Association of Colleges and Employers
(NACE, naceweb.org), a professional membership organization located in Bethlehem,
Pennsylvania. Mackes, whose NACE forecasts trends in the job market, tracks legal
issues in employment and hiring and offers job search and career information, helped us
put together these tips for navigating the job market during difficult or uncertain
economic times:
Do the work. In a tough market, it’s even more important to do everything right.
So make sure your resume is clear and truly highlights your skills, talents, achievements
and results. Work your network-online and off. Is your linkedin profile sharp and up-to-
date? Same with your facebook page-or is it full of shout-outs and vacation snapshots?
Now’s not the time to be shy about reaching out and asking for guidance and direction.
Do your homework and thoroughly research the industry, the market and any company
you’re interested in.
Highlight skills that are valuable in a down market. For example, experience
with budgets and cost management is necessary in difficult economic times. Show that
you can manage and even inspire people under fire. Offer examples of ways you’ve
worked effectively when resources are tight. Make extra sure to highlight points like
these on your resume.
Think outside of your own box. Look at yourself and what you have to offer in
an open way or a different light. Try not to limit the skills and experiences that you had
that might be useful in the workplace. Just because you’ve always worked in operations,
doesn’t mean that’s all you can do. Think about other ways to describe who you are and
what you have. Are you a natural leader who heads the diversity committee at your
current job? Do you have accounting skills from working at your parents’ bodega
growing up? Are you highly organized, the recording secretary of your church’s board of
directors?
Be flexible. Consider what there is a demand for and position yourself toward that
demand. With a finance background or MBA, you might have your sights set on Wall
Street. But a job in health care, education or energy might be a better option. Or
government, which is attractive to many job seekers these days. Maybe you had planned
to work for a large well-known corporation, but your skills might be attractive to smaller
company or even a nonprofit. Keep your geographic options open. Living in New York
or Chicago might be your dream, but think about the Midwest or South instead.
Tell us your story. Have you recently looked for a job? We’d love to hear about
it. Or share advice about finding a job now that the economy is tight.
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UPCOMING
PROGRAMS
Mastering Management Program:
Spring, 2010
Premier Navigating Organizations:
Summer, 2010
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