Lauren Lamonica

The job market is uncertain, but I’ve encountered people recently who’ve been looking for jobs forever. I’m by no means perfect, but have generally been able to get interviews when I need them. Here are some suggestions to those who can’t seem to find work:

1. Every interaction with humans is a networking activity. If you are out with friends having drinks, everyone should know that you’re looking for work. Think of your tab as a business expense.
2. Aim for a 9-5 workday. If you’re looking for a professional career, any job in an office is better than a job in a restaurant. This is because you will have a foot in the door at a company, will be surrounded with other professionals, meet possible mentors, and get to network at happy hour with your coworkers. If the admin job is really below you, you don’t have to put it on your resume.
3. If there’s a job you want, look at the job requirements listed under the job description. If you don’t have the job requirements, you’re not qualified. So either become qualified or look for another type of job.
4. Don’t label yourself. If you’re looking for work, you should be open to what the employer wants. Never say “I am an ideas person,” or “I prefer to work alone,” or “I’m not a technology person.” Saying stuff like that just gives the employer reason not to offer you a job. Listen for what they are looking for, and give them just that. It’s called marketing.
5. Being green doesn’t mean being low-tech. If you’re looking to score one of the extremely coveted positions of “green educator” or “environmental initiative manager,” you will be expected to be able to mobilize people using inexpensive tools, such as Facebook groups, starting a blog, or making a YouTube video. Liking the great outdoors doesn’t give you a free pass for being a late adopter of technology. On the contrary, you should be an expert.
6. Time is money. Take on free, challenging, but non-work projects like a running goal, learning to play guitar, making a garden, or reading a difficult book. If you have “free time” now, make the most of it. Once you’re working, you’ll regret not having spent your free time more wisely. There’s a few other reasons to do this: It will give you something interesting to say in your interview when someone asks “what have you been doing?” It will keep your mind fresh. It will give you a sense of accomplishment and control in the face of uncertainty.
7. It takes money to make money. Go to the smart networking event that costs $50. If there’s a Kinko’s resume stock, spring for it. If you’re not sure if your shirt is pressed enough, take it to the dry cleaner. Looking professional reflects common sense and education.