Becoming Who You Want To Be

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.

But, that is not the end of the bad news. Underemployment, which effects far more workers, is also spiraling upward rapidly.

Both unemployment and underemployment are frightening prospects. How might we protect ourselves against them?

The following are ten suggestions.

1. If you have reason to believe your current position may be in jeopardy, begin exploring other opportunities immediately. But, do it very discreetly.

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. Choose your references carefully. One mistake can be a “killer”.

5. Ensure that everything about your resume and letter of interest is of the very highest quality. Do whatever it takes.

6. Practice interviewing. Prepare answers to the questions you will most likely hear, and be especially ready to deal with tough questions.

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. Be sure all of your friends and professional associates know that you are job hunting. They can be a great resource.

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”.