Although it is true that the economy can play a role in the number of jobs that are available, or the number of people who find themselves out of work, in the main, it is “just a part” of the big picture. It is easy for a person who may have been on too many interviews to start “chalking it up to the economy.” Yet, this person is making a critical mistake if he does so.
The only “part” that is played by the economy is that there may be fewer jobs for the person to choose from, or conversely, there may be more people applying for those jobs. That only means the playing field is a little bit tougher. The wise job hunter keeps this fully in mind at all times.
To find a job in times where the jobs may not be “plentiful” is only a calling for you to be the “best of the best” and to be more outgoing in your search than the people you are competing with. It is the time for you to be at the top of your game.
Sometimes it may also mean that you have to be more forgiving in the terms you will accept and the jobs you will take. That can even go to the extreme of the dentist who was more willing to be unemployed in his small town than he was ashamed to take a position beneath him. He worked at the docks, helping to unload tuna boats when they came in until a dental position came in. He was not to proud to take a job out of his chosen field because to him working was more important and more redeeming than sitting back claiming no work.
We don’t all have to get too forgiving, but it is a good reminder that we are also not glued to one station in the work world and that we can and should be willing to try new things if that is going to be the solution – even if only for the interim.
The main thing is to keep up your job search, and to keep yourself polished in appearance, polished in mannerisms and attitude and to keep your presentation of your self (which is typically your resume and cover letter) absolutely top of the line.
You should also remember the golden rule: When you are looking for a job, you are in essence marketing yourself. Thus the more you market, the more you will receive back. Do not allow yourself to slack off. Set and meet daily targets for numbers of resumes delivered to companies either by personal delivery, or through the US Postal service, or through online job boards. Post your resume in as many locations as you can. Personalize your resume for potential positions you want to apply for.
Follow up is very important too. Send an email or personal note, or even make a call if appropriate. Use your time when you find yourself unemployed in a tough economy as if you were employed. In essence, you are: You are gainfully employed in the task of finding gainful employment.
With that right attitude and perseverance you will be one of the people who had no difficulty finding a job during a tough economy.
