SLOW ECONOMY? NOW WHAT?
As the economy slows down, a lot of people say it’s really tough to get a job. “No one’s hiring! It’s no use!” No Pollyanna advice here. The hard truth: it is tough for a lot of people. So what can you do? You could sit home in your underwear watching Oprah—or you can do what it takes to succeed.
ANTICIPATE EMPLOYER NEEDS
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In good times or bad, employers always have needs. In bad times, they may have to run their department with half as many people, keep customers from going to the competition, find new markets, and find ways to cut costs. associations, and public information for government jobs. Then, learn to use the information with finesse.
BE CLEAR ABOUT YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS
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In good times, you might get away with a sloppy self-presentation. Not now.
• Do know what makes you valuable. Articulate your contributions compellingly.
• Don’t go to interview saying, “My last company went out of business, so here I am.” Employers may pity you, but they won’t hire you.
KEEP UP YOUR SPIRITS
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I know--easier said than done. Rejection is tough. It’s easy to get depressed. But no one wants to hire a mope. Exercise regularly--the powerful hormones called “endorphins” produced during exercise profoundly affect mood. So does eating right. Make time for the things you enjoy.
KEEP YOUR MIND ACTIVE
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Keep abreast of what’s going on. Skip depressing TV news--go for news publications and the latest books. You are more interesting when you keep current.
GET SUPPORT
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Don’t isolate. Get a cheering section. Find people to keep you accountable. Get support from friends, family, and/or a career coach. Find someone who will kick your butt (if you need that) or nurture you (if that works better).
WARNING!
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Spouses are great cheerleaders, but a bad choice for accountability. Do your marriage a favor: find someone else to hold your feet to the fire.
KEEP YOUR PRESENTATION FRESH
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Don’t let your self-presentation get stale. Keep practicing it and getting feedback. Sure, things are tough, but employers are hiring. Here’s three people who succeeded.
• Mark, a recent college grad, got over his discouragement and found some employers want bright young people to replace higher-priced talent.
• Laura, a middle aged sales rep, found an employer who needed her experience to keep the ship from sinking.
• Wendy’s skills in streamlining operations were invaluable to another manager grappling with downsizing.
THIS IS JUST A SAMPLE!
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