Effective Job Searching in Today's Economic Climate

Looking for work? In an uncertain time, the only thing that can be counted on is the fact that you are not alone.

Even in an area considered to be affluent, the reported unemployment rate in Ozaukee County hovers around 8 percent. How many more workers have simply exhausted benefits or are severely under employed is unknown.

There are plenty of steps to take in finding employment, but some basic tools should be used along the way. The following points will help you get started:

1. Resume (clean & updated): This is your first step to presenting yourself to multiple companies.
2. Networking: Connect with a new person every day — former colleagues or classmates will aid your search.
3. Community resources: Agencies, job fairs, libraries and others provide help.
4. Positive attitude: Feeling defeated will slow progress more than any other factor.
5. Structure: Completing tasks and keeping appointments builds momentum.

As described below, using these tools is easier than you may think.

Many people have a resume; few have an effective resume they are happy with.

A good way to receive resume help is to ask as many people that you trust (and are willing) to look it over. After that, you have to be open to making changes. Filter the advice and do what makes sense.

Everyone has a network, making it useful is where most struggle.

The easiest way to network is to be out and about. Look for work in a job center with others, join a networking group, talk to neighbors, attend seminars, even walking your dog in populated areas can create new contacts. Learning about and utilizing social media such as LinkedIn has become a fantastic tool, as well.

Community resources are under utilized by most job seekers.

The first reason for this stems from a lack of knowledge. Do you know that centers exist purely to help those who are under or unemployed? An example in Ozaukee County is the Workforce Development Center. Every county in Wisconsin has such "one-stop" job centers where various resources can be found. Job listings, internet and even one-on-one case management are available free of charge to job seekers.

The second reason for community resources not to be used is misguided thinking. Often, the newly dislocated feels that they will not need help and will be back into the work force quickly. While this is true for a lucky few, most will reduce their search time with help.

Creating structure can be as easy as getting out of the house to research companies online rather than from the couch. Libraries and job centers often have events and workshops dedicated to finding employment. By creating structure, you will also help maintain a positive attitude. In the event of a job interview, a negative attitude will come through immediately and destroy your chances of landing an opportunity.

Using these tools is an essential way of getting back into the work place.

Help is out there to get you started or move you ahead. W-O-W Workforce Development Inc. is a private, nonprofit agency whose sole purpose is assisting job seekers in getting back to work. To learn more visit www.wfdc.org or call 262-238-2880 for the Ozaukee County center or 262-335-5300 for the Washington County center.