Career Corner Tips for Job Hunting During a Recession - Hallie Crawford

Career Corner Tips for Job Hunting During a Recession The R word tends to scare people in the workplace. We think wed better hold onto our jobs, or if were looking for a new job we think the task is going to be that much more daunting. People get fearful and freaked out. It doesnt have to be that way! Yes a recession affects the economy and therefore the hiring decisions employers are going to make. But if you approach your job search from a place of fear or desperation its not going to go well period. So dont do this. Assume that you will be able to find something that works for you regardless. Just be smart about it and re-consider what youre looking for if you need to. Here are some tips: 1) Be money-wise: Re-evaluate your budget if you need to. If you cant find a job for the next few months, do you need to dip into savings to stay afloat and not feel strapped and scared? Are there things (like consulting, taking odd jobs you find on Craigs list) you can do in the short term to bring in some income. Remember you dont want to come from a place of fear when job hunting. Feeling cash strapped can make you fearful and feel desperate. Do things to manage your finances so you dont get into that position. 2) Be ok with something less: If you need immediate income, be ok with taking something you may consider beneath your skill or experience level. Money is money and if you need it, do something about it. Its ok to do temp work, or take a short term part time job that isnt your ideal. Theres nothing wrong with this! It serves a purpose. I did temp work for months while I was in career transition. It got me out of the house and made me feel better. Which in turn, helped my job search. Remember its only temporary while youre looking for something bigger. 3) Be realistic: Is the job youre trying to land realistic for you, or do you need to gain more experience/learn new skills to get it? People are probably less willing to take a chance during a recession so make sure the job youre applying for is realistic for you. 4) Know your limits: You may have to accept less money, benefits or something else during a recession. Before you go on the interview, know your limits. Whats the least you can accept and still feel comfortable? Remember to ask for more than you need at the beginning. You can negotiate down but its much harder to negotiate up. 5) Amp up your networking efforts: Knowing someone who works in the field you want to work in always helps, but is even more critical during a recession when companies arent necessarily combing the internet for resumes. Brush off your list of networking contacts and see who else you can add to the list and get in touch with to network. Look for local networking groups. Dont be shy! This is the time to brush up on your networking skills. Finally, remain positive and optimistic: Dont assume the worst, assume that youll find something. It will help you attract what you want! Heres to having a career you love!Atlanta Career Coach