Former Secretary of Labor, Robert Reich, has predicted that the unemployment rate in the U.S. will soon reach ten percent. That's a pretty grim prospect for all of us.
And, unemployment is not the only problem we face. Underemployment, already a problem, is also on the rise. There are no definitive statistics available, but the number of underemployed workers is thought to be a multiple of the unemployment numbers.
Both unemployment and underemployment are frightening prospects. How might we protect ourselves against them?
We can help ourselves. Here are 10 ways.
1. If you think your job may not be secure, start looking for alternate employment without delay. Remember, though, that discretion is important. And, never job hunt during work hours. Never.
2. Improve your educational credentials. Take online courses. Think about earning a certificate, certification or degree. The more letters you can put after your name, the better you will look to employers.
3. Network, network, and network some more. You can never have too many professional contacts.
4. Join and become active in at least one professional organization. More are better.
5. Ensure that everything about your resume and letter of interest is of the very highest quality. Do whatever it takes.
6. Practice your interviewing skills with friends or acquaintances with hiring experience.
7. There are thousands of articles like this, including many on common job seeker mistakes. Take a few hours to read them.
8. Register with appropriate job placement agencies (online and off-line).
9. Bs sure that everyone who may be in a position to help you, including friends and family members, is aware of your job search.
10. Try to develop a skill that is valued but rare in the field in which you work. Be sure to include it in your cover letter and resume.
Job hunting can be a disheartening experience, even in a booming economy. These days, it is even tougher. But, as my father used to say, "it only takes one".
And, unemployment is not the only problem we face. Underemployment, already a problem, is also on the rise. There are no definitive statistics available, but the number of underemployed workers is thought to be a multiple of the unemployment numbers.
Both unemployment and underemployment are frightening prospects. How might we protect ourselves against them?
We can help ourselves. Here are 10 ways.
1. If you think your job may not be secure, start looking for alternate employment without delay. Remember, though, that discretion is important. And, never job hunt during work hours. Never.
2. Improve your educational credentials. Take online courses. Think about earning a certificate, certification or degree. The more letters you can put after your name, the better you will look to employers.
3. Network, network, and network some more. You can never have too many professional contacts.
4. Join and become active in at least one professional organization. More are better.
5. Ensure that everything about your resume and letter of interest is of the very highest quality. Do whatever it takes.
6. Practice your interviewing skills with friends or acquaintances with hiring experience.
7. There are thousands of articles like this, including many on common job seeker mistakes. Take a few hours to read them.
8. Register with appropriate job placement agencies (online and off-line).
9. Bs sure that everyone who may be in a position to help you, including friends and family members, is aware of your job search.
10. Try to develop a skill that is valued but rare in the field in which you work. Be sure to include it in your cover letter and resume.
Job hunting can be a disheartening experience, even in a booming economy. These days, it is even tougher. But, as my father used to say, "it only takes one".
About the Author:
Daniel Z. Kane is a veteran educator and webmaster who frequently writes about careers, online college options,
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