How to Land a Job in a Recession

Just think of it. Employers are probably receiving hundreds, if not thousands, of job applications far more than what they used to get. Many employers use a college degree as a means to make the first cut. If you’re a college grad, you already have a distinct advantage over other job seekers. However, you will still need to do your homework in order to set yourself apart from the rest. Here are some tips that can help improve your chances of landing a job during a recession.

Network. Network. Network - Whether you like it or not, if you are seeking a real job right now, you have to talk to people. And, more importantly, you have to listen to what they have to say. Take advantage of events that are sponsored by clubs, associations, or groups on campus or around town. Seek out professionals in the career that interests you and solicit their advice. You never know – they may be able to connect you to someone in your field who is hiring.

Swallow hard and work for free – You probably don’t have a spouse, kids or a mortgage just yet. Those big expenses often don’t allow job seekers to explore all their options. So, open yourself up to possibly moving in with your folks or friends and taking an unpaid position, as long as it is in an industry that truly interests you. Unpaid internships sometimes turn into paid positions or lead to other opportunities. But most importantly, you will gain valuable experience in the field that interests you.

Embrace the Internet (if you haven’t already) - Search the Internet to find companies in your field that may be hiring. You can also use social networking sites like Facebook and LinkedIn to find people you may know who work at businesses that interest you. Also, identify acquaintances who may know someone who works at a company in your field and ask for an introduction. You should also research companies to prepare for interviews. And when you have an interview, spend some time on the company’s website researching the people you will meet and the company itself.

Write some blogs & read some too – A great way to brush up on an industry or possible careers is to read blogs. If you regularly read blogs and comment on them, you can begin to develop relationships with people in the industry that interests you. Believe it or not, bloggers often offer tremendous amounts of information and expertise that can help you gain a better understanding of their field. You should also start your own blog about the career you hope to work in after graduation. Use it to post research or events. Add a link to articles or information and offer a personal commentary. And, be sure to include a link to your blog on your resume. It is a good way for employers to learn more about you before an interview.

Take a good look around - Some industries continue to hire even during a recession. Consider alternative careers. Watch employment trends and think about other areas where your talents could be used. There is more than one way to put your skills to work.

Most importantly, be persistent. That job is out there, you just have to find it. Good luck!

Labels: blogging, internship, job search, moving home, networking, real-world knowledge, recession, social networking

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 10/06/2009 04:53:00 PM
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Publish Your Thoughts, Collect Paycheck. Rinse, Repeat.

The rise in blogs has been astronomical over the past decade or so, thanks in large part to the convenience and easy access of the internet.  I started blogging in my sophomore year of high school for myself... I updated my friends about my thoughts, joys, frustrations, etc. and they would comment back with their own mature outlook on the situation at hand.

Labels: alternative job options, blogging, money

Posted by Amanda on 12/04/2008 04:53:00 PM
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Blog Your Way Into a Job – Companies Hiring Bloggers

There’s a new trend of companies hiring bloggers to work in-house for the purpose of developing blog content, or to find news for posting to a blog network. This is a great entry into the workforce for anyone looking for corporate writing experience, and to gain a foothold for bigger and better career opportunities within the social media realm.

Corporate bloggers are paid for positions, and depending on experience can be paid anywhere from $20 per post to $5k-$8k per month for those whose work is closely tied to the corporate brand.

If corporate blogging isn’t quite what you are looking for, and you prefer the independent spirit of working for yourself, you can always try your hand at making a career out of your own blog. Check out one article from Fast Company to give you tips about starting a career by developing and writing your own blog.

But even if you are interested in creating a career with your own blog, you can still supplement your income as an independent consultant or freelance blogger in the corporate world. By starting out with your own blog, you build your experience and boost your corporate resume at the same time.

So where do you find these dream jobs of spending your day online and blogging for a living? By blogging, of course. Start by running an Internet search of “careers in blogging” or check out professional blogging sites such as www.problogger.net.

Blogging jobs are not only fun and flexible, but they can be a lucrative way to start your career. Good luck… blogs & kisses!

Labels: alternative job options, blogging, blogs, social media

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 12/01/2008 07:48:00 AM
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Social Networking/Bookmarking

One of my classmates had me check her facebook through-and-through to make sure she didn't have anything offensive or inappropriate as she is starting her job search.

As I was looking, it struck me that there is no way you can have a completely clean blog/social networking site/social bookmarking site. You will always have something that reflects your politics and/or beliefs, and there is bound to be someone who doesn't agree.

I think, instead of people deleting their pages or trying to hide behind a privacy block, they should consider how they portray themselves, meaning the language used and the sources to back up your argument.

Future employers who come across a well-designed, well thought-out blog would end up drawing a more positive impression than if you have no site at all.

As our generation becomes more educated and tech savvy, few people will believe we are not plugged into myspace, facebook, linked in, etc., and a lack of an internet presence could end up detrimental, especially in a field like mine where we must all master the wave of communication trends.

Labels: blogging, facebook, job search, myspace, social networking

Posted by Christina on 11/27/2007 03:54:00 PM
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Independent Study

I am registered for an independent study next semester, and I am pretty excited about it. I was talking to the professor that is overseeing my research, and we determined that I am on a good start (the role of new media and public relations) but I need to narrow it down.

But with traveling and prepping my house and studies for everything before the break, the topic slipped my mind. While trying to explain what I wanted to do to my parents, I got to thinking about it again, and now I am getting excited about it again.

Sometimes I feel like a nerd because I get so into my different research topics, but in this case I think its even more so because blogging and social networking have become so powerful in my field, so what I am researching will actually be relevant upon graduation.

Labels: blogging, independent study, new media

Posted by Christina on 11/21/2007 09:49:00 PM
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