economy | vocationalvoice: the integrated employment institute

Is the current job market keeping you from looking for work? If so, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

Don’t postpone a job search. Postponing a job search does not give you an advantage in your hunt for that perfect job. In fact, it just creates longer gaps in employment. According to a 2009 focus group study I conducted along with Francine M. Bates, Human Resource professionals in NJ describe gaps in employment as negatively affecting a job candidate’s application. In other words, continue to keep abreast of your field’s job openings and apply for positions that interest you. You may not get something immediately, but you have a better chance of finding a job if you are continuing to look for one!
Use your creativity. Be creative in your job search. For example, think of new ways to identify job leads. Ones that don’t involve just looking online or in the newspapers. Network with people in your field. Are there professional associations or other business related groups that you can link up with to meet people who might have job leads? Does your local library have any job related support groups or other opportunities to meet new people? How about job related groups held at the local One Stop Center? Find your local center by following this link: http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us/labor/wnjpin/findjob/onestop/services.html. Explore as many options as possible. This will not only increase your job related network, but may also be a fun way to meet new and interesting people!
Remain calm, cool, and collected. Easier said than done, right? Well, as much as possible, try to maintain a sense of confidence and positivity. When the right job lead comes along, you want the employer to see you as a confident and composed individual. A person who is not easily shaken by the negative things in life, but one who looks forward to the future with optimism and confidence! How do we stay cool under pressure? Consider taking up yoga, art, or other relaxing activity. Find something that interests and de-stresses you. Look into the adult classes held at your local community college and/or vocational technical school. In addition to the emotional and physical benefits, these classes are great ways to network with people—who knows, they may know of a job opening!

These are just a few tips to enhance your job search during a period of high unemployment. Yes, these tips are common and not terribly complicated. However, we all need reminders at times and encouragement to keep moving forward. If you have any tips you have used that have been helpful in your job search, please let our blog community know. We would love to hear what has worked for you!