Finding Work in Harlem’s Economy

Jobs

Tips for finding Work

By  Judy Davis

Are you one of the man Harlemites who has recently been laid off and you just don’t know quite what to do? You, like many thought your job was safe and now you are back out there in job search mode seeking your next opportunity. Even with the economy being what it is, there are ways to succeed and remain productive. Here are some tips that can assist you in continuing to develop your skills in the current market:

1. First, you can begin by updating your resume on all of major job boards such as: Monster, Careerbuilders, Hotjobs and Craigslist. If your job is more specialized, do a search online for jobsites that only display opportunities for certain careers and be sure to update or submit your resume.

2. Meet with recruiters to explain what you want then take a moment to register with a few agencies.

3. Network – Go to networking events with friends, past co-workers or through organizations where you belong.

4. Use social networking sites to connect and inform others about your job status. People have been known to land freelance and full time job opportunities by using Twitter, Linked In, Facebook, Plaxo, etc.

5. Be open to taking a part time job. Companies still need people and many times are willing to hire freelancers and consultants. (Remember two part time jobs can equal one full time job.) Keep in mind that as the economy gets better, you may be the person who gets the full time job since you are already working at the company as a freelancer.

6. Lastly, you can volunteer some of your time doing something you love. This can range from devoting an hour a day or maybe a few hours once a week. This is an excellent way to keep yourself busy and keep your skills up to date. Be sure to let the person or organization that you volunteer for; know that you may only be able to offer your time on a temporary basis because you are actively looking for work.

The ultimate way to survive the economic downturn is to remain proactive and continue to perform tasks that will enhance your career. The market will get better eventually and it is important to remain aggressive and stay positive until you get what you want.

Questions for Judy Davis at hwcontact@yahoo.com

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Tips for Finding Work in Today’s Economy

Are you one of the many American’s who has recently been laid off and you just don’t know quite what to do? You, like many thought your job was safe and now you are back out there in job search mode seeking your next opportunity. Even with the economy being what it is, there are ways to succeed and remain productive. Here are some tips that can assist you in continuing to develop your skills in the current market:

1. First, you can begin by updating your resume on all of major job boards such as: Monster, Careerbuilders, Hotjobs and Craigslist. If your job is more specialized, do a search online for jobsites that only display opportunities for certain careers and be sure to update or submit your resume.

2. Meet with recruiters to explain what you want then take a moment to register with a few agencies.

3. Network – Go to networking events with friends, past co-workers or through organizations where you belong.

4. Use social networking sites to connect and inform others about your job status. People have been known to land freelance and full time job opportunities by using Twitter, Linked In, Facebook, Plaxo, etc.

5. Be open to taking a part time job. Companies still need people and many times are willing to hire freelancers and consultants. (Remember two part time jobs can equal one full time job.) Keep in mind that as the economy gets better, you may be the person who gets the full time job since you are already working at the company as a freelancer.

6. Lastly, you can volunteer some of your time doing something you love. This can range from devoting an hour a day or maybe a few hours once a week. This is an excellent way to keep yourself busy and keep your skills up to date. Be sure to let the person or organization that you volunteer for; know that you may only be able to offer your time on a temporary basis because you are actively looking for work.

The ultimate way to survive the economic downturn is to remain proactive and continue to perform tasks that will enhance your career. The market will get better eventually and it is important to remain aggressive and stay positive until you get what you want.