Unemployment Down Low
I recently learned that the unemployment figure is up to 7.2% with 2.6 million jobs lost in 2008. Some estimates indicate that unemployment will soar to double digits in 2009. I feel fear creeping up my spine listening to that. Yet, even this morning there was a news segment about budget vacations being referenced as a ‘silver lining’. How is that silver I wondered? How will families be able to travel (even on a budget) if they cannot even meet monthly required financial commitments?
That’s why it is so important to be proactive about career planning and job search strategies. Here are a few simple steps that will put you ahead of the curve and allow you to prepare for a job search in the short-term, or just be generally prepared as a proactive measure:
- Keep a list of companies that hold particular appeal with corresponding reasons for interest. This will allow you to quickly modify your cover letter to provide relevant company details when applying.
- Update your résumé. Make sure that your career documents are poised to make an immediate impact. This includes highlighting relevant accomplishments (most important) to reveal what you can deliver in a new position.
- Interview for fun. I don’t mean that you should start interviewing around instead of reading a good book or going to the gym; but a good way to develop and maintain strong interview skills is to practice. Nothing ventured, nothing gained and this process will allow you to hone your skills.
- Develop your communication skills by either reading relevant materials found in the library or online and put the techniques to practical use. Your enthusiasm and positive feelings of self-worth will come through and have a positive impact during your search.
These tips will certainly help you gain a position and remain at the top of your game to ensure your career planning is focused and effective.
Comments and feedback are requested and desired; and you are welcome and encouraged to submit questions to thecareerdoctor.
Debra Wheatman, CPRW, CPCC is the founder and Chief Career Strategist of ResumesDoneWrite, a premier career services provider focused on developing highly personalized career roadmaps for senior leaders and executives across all verticals and industries.
Debra can be reached at -
DWheatman@ResumesDoneWrite.com
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