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Step 1
Look beyond your industry or field. Think about another job or career that you would like to have, and expand your horizons. Maybe your current career has been extremely affected in the downturn, but other fields have not. Surely, you can transfer some of your skills to another career.
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Step 2
Stay open to all possibilities. Don't discard a position even if the job title, salary, or benefits may not be exactly what you previously had or wanted.
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Step 3
Don't be afraid to phone companies and ask if they are hiring. This may give you a chance to find a job even before it is advertised, so you are a step ahead of other jobseekers.
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Step 4
Keep your skill set current by not having any gaps on your resume. While you are looking for a job (which is a full-time job in itself), try and keep your skills current or acquire a skill. Get involved in trade groups, or start research, an initiative or even a blog about your subject of expertise. Alternatively, attend a language course (many are offered cheap or for free in local highschools in the evenings). All of these will show your future employer that you did all you could to improve yourself, despite the circumstances.
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Step 5
Network. Use websites like LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter to let you peers know that you are looking for a job. Make worthwile contributions to the websites, which show you know what you are talking about.
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Step 6
Tailor your cover letter and resume for each job. This way, you can demonstrate how your expertise applies to each individual situation, and increases the chance of your resume standing out to a hiring manager.
