How to Get Hired in a Recession

The economy is getting tougher every day, so how can you get hired in a recession? In times like these, when every job opening is competed for fiercely, it’s time to throw away the want ads, and just get out there and take what you want.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet Connection
• Printer
• Resume Paper
• Reliable Transportation

1. If you want to get hired in a recession, you’re going to have to do some research. Before you even think about applying for a job, learn as much as possible about the companies you are thinking of applying to. A vast amount of information about most companies is available on the Internet, so don’t just stop at the job you want to apply for- learn about their organizational structure, hiring practices, vacation policies, etc. Most importantly, learn about the business philosophy and culture of each company. This will help you decide whether or not you have value to offer the company, as well as whether a position with a particular company is a good fit for you.

2. If you want to get hired in a recession economy, it’s a good idea to know what you might be in for before applying for a position. With some research, you can find out what similar jobs are paying, what the typical hours are, and what job responsibilities you can expect. In addition, you can find out how much competition you can expect when applying for that job. If the job is in high demand, it might be a better bet to find something a little more obscure, with less competition, if you want to get hired in a recession.

3. Once you know what kind of job you want, and you know what company you want to work for, it’s time to pursue the opportunity. Use the concept of six degrees of separation to get networked into the company. Everyone knows someone who knows someone who knows someone. Use those someone’s to get a meeting, an interview, or whatever you can get. Once you have that meeting, it’s time to show them your stuff. Don’t worry about what job openings they have, you need to establish that you are so valuable that a position should be created for you.

4. A resume should be a living document. Re-write your resume to reflect skills that would be needed in the position you are seeking. Each resume you submit to different employers should be unique, showing your qualifications for that particular position, with that particular company. Print your resume on high-quality resume paper, and the combination of quality image and quality content will help you get hired in a recession.

5. During your meeting, interview, or whatever you have set up, project confidence and competence. Do not appear desperate. Professionalism, polite interest, and a friendly, positive demeanor will contribute to your ability to get hired in a recession. Your job, at this point, is to help them understand how you will contribute to their company. You should be prepared to sell yourself, and sell hard. They will probably not be looking to hire anyone, due to the state of the economy, so you will need to be able to explain how hiring you will either save them money or make them money. In business, it’s all about the bottom line.

Tips & Warnings

• Find ways to identify with managers during meetings and/or interviews. If you can make a personal connection, it is more likely that you will get hired.
• Practice your handshake with a friend or relative. It should be firm without squeezing, and above all, avoid the limp handshake!
• Don’t put all your eggs in one basket! Times are tough, and it can be hard to get hired in a recession. During times like this, it’s best to diversify your interests. Don’t be afraid to apply to more than one company. The more companies you apply for, the better your chances are that you will get hired in a recession.