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Managing in a Down Economy
By Heather Carpenter | September 26, 2008
The unemployment rate in the US is at a recent high of 6.1%, slightly higher than Massachusetts’ rate of 5.3%. These are very startling statistics as many recent college graduates and current students look for entry-level positions. They face a two-pronged challenge: 1. The percentage of companies hiring entry-level positions has decreased; and 2. They are competing with people with many years experience who have been laid off during this down-turn.
There are a few ways that college students can start to help themselves while the economy begins to sort itself out.
First, freshmen and sophomores need to begin their career planning from day one. Put together a plan that is going to work for you and start making connections in your field of interest.
Second, students and recent graduates should be compiling a list of who they know and contacting every single one of them. Start working your network to see who is hiring, who is providing internship or other opportunities that can help you to break into a company or an industry.
Third, do research on your own relating to which industries are still strong. Read the news, use resources that are available through your schools career center and library, and continue speaking with people you know.
Internship experiences are becoming more and more valuable. Having that entry-level experience combined with the proverbial “foot in the door” can make all the difference in getting hired. Take your internship experience seriously and look for the best possible place for you to gain that experience (whether it is paid or unpaid).
Lastly, don’t give up hope. As I have said many times over job searching is very hard. Regardless of market conditions it is a challenge and a process to find a job that is going to fit your skills, qualifications and desires. Although at times you may feel desperate do not take a job just to have a job. Continue to seek out an opportunity that is going to let you begin your career and grow.
Topics: General, Job Search, Networking |
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