Looking for a Job in a Down Economy

Not long ago I taught an online class about how to find a job in a down economy. The ups and downs will inevitably happen, but you don’t have to be at the mercy of whatever comes. Three years ago in my last corporate contracting job, they were laying off employees when I arrived. The layoffs were still going on when my assignment ended a year later. For many people, the economic meltdown didn’t just start a few months ago.

Is it possible to find a job in a down economy? Yes, but it will take patience and consistent effort. I’ve talked to people who were ready to give up because they applied for a couple of jobs and never heard back. The reality is that it’s not likely that you can send out a few resumes and get an interview (much less get a job). Looking for a position now requires that you’re clear about what you really want and are prepared to keep going until you get it.

First of all, have an updated resume. Do your research and find out what’s going on within your industry. Is it growing or shedding jobs? If you’re posting your resume online, be sure to include keywords so that it doesn’t get lost in the shuffle of hundreds, if not thousands of others. Looking online is probably the most popular way to look for a job, if only because you can do it from anywhere. The catch is, even with the popularity of online job boards, networking is the real key to finding a job. It will make your search easier if you make the effort to meet people outside of your circle. As they say, you never know who knows who – and that “who” might be the person who can introduce you to your new job.

For some people staying put during a downturn is the best choice. Even if you aren’t looking to leave your job right now, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared with an updated resume and a plan of action.