How to Search for a Job When No One Is Hiring

During a recession, jobs can be difficult to come by.

In a recession, it sometimes seems like everyone is looking for work, and with so few jobs and so many people searching, it can be tough to get the job you want. Once you create your resume and tweak it a bit to fit the specific job you're targeting, you can begin your journey of actually finding a job and not just looking for one.

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper
• Resume

Instructions

1. Look for a job in the place that has the most job listings: the World Wide Web. Check out popular job-search sites such as Craigslist, Monster, CareerBuilder, SimplyHired and Indeed.

2. Browse the classified section of the newspaper. Since the explosion of the Internet, newspapers have fewer listings than they did 10 years ago. It is still, however, a good place to check for a job. You'll likely find dozens of help-wanted listings per day, depending on your paper.

3. Visit a college. A place that most people do not check for jobs--except for students, of course--is the local college or university. Every college has a career center, and that career center most likely has a website. Check out the website or go to the campus and see what information they have. This is also a good place to find out about career fairs.

4. Visit your city or town's website. If you have the expertise they need, it can lead to great pay and greater benefits. Many municipality websites have an "Employment" link that lists jobs for the city or town itself, as well as for the schools located there. Listings are likely limited but might be updated often.

5. Research the companies you want to work for and either call, show up in person or search their websites for job opportunities. Starting at the bottom of a company is not always a bad thing and can lead to a promotion if you prove what a great employee you are. Drop off your resume with the receptionist, and maybe you can even snag a few minutes with the boss.

Tips & Warnings

• Update your resume to fit the needs of the job you are applying for.

• Search as many places as possible, and do not limit yourself on searches.

• There are many job scams out there, so be careful and do your research. If something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.

References

• Job Search Advisor: Tips to Help You Present Your Resume