Today's Job Market: 10 Tips to Getting Employed Again

From the Internet to the local newspaper, stories spotlight pink slip parties and how some professionals are regrouping. We've identified 10 tips for moving back into the ranks of the employed.

By Lora Meisner, Thingamajob Staff Writer

1. Know what you're looking for. As a character in Alice in Wonderland said, "if you don't know where you're going, how can you make plans to get there?" Even those who have been pink slipped, should ask, "Is this the career/job I want to pursue?" You may want to explore other opportunities.

2. Create an effective resume. Be sure to have friends, colleagues, and your recruiter critique it for you. Highlight your accomplishments and show definitive results. Be sure to answer the question that every potential employer asks, "what can you do for me, what contribution can you make?

3. Develop effective cover letters. Cover letters should include additional information, which enhances your marketability to the potential employer. To save time, have a few well-developed paragraphs that you can insert (applicable) into your letters.

4. Inform everyone you know that you are looking for a job-friends, family, neighbors, and former colleagues. Be sure to clearly describe what type of job you're looking for so they can serve as additional resources. Also, continue to keep these people updated.

5. Develop a good relationship with a recruiter. This is another excellent way to expand your job search. Recruiters have already developed relationships with many companies and are there to work with you, to find a good match between your skills and the requirements of the positions at the companies they are working with.

6. Network, network, network, and stay connected with professionals in your field or allied fields. Remember, even companies that may be laying off people in one department can be hiring in another department. The difference is they're doing it quietly, relying on recruiters and internal referral networks.

7. Is your resume posted on Thingamajob? Use online resources such as this site, listservs, message boards, etc. You can gain information and ideas by reading articles, postings from other job seekers, and input from recruiters. However, remember online etiquette, to give, and not just receive assistance and information.

8. Research, research, research, and learn as much as you can about potential employers. If you're working with a recruiter, they can be terrific information resources. Additionally, most companies and organizations have Web sites full of valuable information.

9. Conduct informational interviews. These are excellent ways of learning about a career, a particular job, or company. Be sure to have your questions prepared ahead of time and don't overstay your welcome, keep your appointment to approximately 20 minutes.

10. Enhance your skills. Being unemployed is stressful but it may also be an opportunity to take a class, attend a seminar, or take advantage of some other educational format. Look into online opportunities. Many states offer free educational opportunities for the unemployed, check with your local state employment office.

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