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Job Hunting during a Recession

Whether you loved your old job or hated it, being laid off is a shock. It can be hard to dive into a job search right away.

By planning a careful job hunt, you can increase your chances of landing a great new job. Follow these tips to make your job search as successful as possible.

TIP 1: Be positive. Most of all, don't feel ashamed or guilty. Companies downsize because of the economy, not because of the employees. If you've lost your job, you're not alone. Follow this link for more help in Dealing with Transition.

TIP 2: Plan to devote time to your job search. A successful job hunt requires planning and time. Consider temporary work as you conduct a more thorough job hunt for a long-term position. Employment and temporary agencies might be able to help. You can also visit CareerOneStop's section on Creating a Job Search Plan for more tips.

TIP 3: Know your job options. When you are laid off, you have several options:

  • Look for a similar job in the same occupation and industry. If this is your goal, you can begin your job search by following the rest of the tips below.
  • Look for a different type of job that requires similar skills as your former job. Explore this option by visiting the Changing Careers after a Job Loss section.
  • Look for a job in an entirely new field that requires new skills. Explore this option by visiting the Changing Careers after a Job Loss section or the Explore Careers section.

You can often get advice about which option would be best for you by visiting a Minnesota WorkForce Center.

TIP 4: Network, network, network. Build a network and actively use it to talk with lots of people about your job search. This is critical to a successful job hunt.

TIP 5: Have several people read and comment on your resume. When you apply for a job, your resume is often the only information a prospective employer has about you. Make sure your resume highlights your skills and qualifications in just the right way. Visit the Resumes section to get tips on creating or improving a resume as well as samples and templates to help get you started.

TIP 6: Use many different sources for job leads. Even during a recession, businesses are hiring. But since it can be harder to find job openings, it's important to explore all avenues.

  • Job websites are important sources of job leads. This section explains how to use them and provides links to many of the most popular ones.
  • Minnesota WorkForce Centers are a major source of guidance to help you find a job.
  • Research employers to find employers in your area. Ask if they are hiring, or go ahead and talk with them even if they're not currently hiring.

TIP 7: Brush up on your interviewing skills. These interview tips are especially important if you haven't been to a job interview in many years (or if you've never interviewed before).