Find the RIGHT Job

I know there are a lot of people out there today who have recently found themselves without employment and I also know it's an "employers market" when it comes to who gets hired and who doesn't.  Much of the cream of corporate America is searching for a position that will get them back in the workforce.  But before you go applying for everything you run across online, seriously consider your personal desires and talents.   

If you just left a corporate management position in a major U.S. city, are you ready to become management in the fast food industry?  Probably not.  But don't get to the point where you compare your previous position to one that's being offered to you today.  You might not make as much money, you may have to travel more (or less), and you may not have a corner office.  But consider whether any new employment opportunity fits your personality and your professional capabilities.

To begin with, get ready to do your homework.  Speaking of homework, you might consider going back to school to get a higher degree or take a vocational course; it can't hurt.  But by homework, I mean, determine what it is you'd like to do.  This will give you a better idea of where to start looking.  Maybe you might consider getting into a different sector of you field or perhaps you'd like to completely change your area of expertise. 

One good lesson is to establish what your passions are and then guide your search in that direction.  What is it that you've always wanted to do but never had the chance because you were too busy "working."  Now that you have that obstacle out of the way, maybe it's time to write your novel, or paint your masterpiece, develop your catering business or buy that Bed & Breakfast in upstate New York.  What are you dreams - could be the time to start living them.

If you still want to get back into the traditional workforce, there are a variety of ways to find your new position.  Use your network.  Who do you know that can help you find your next career move?  Start calling them and reconnect with some people you haven't talked to in months or years. 

There's always the Internet.  While some people aren't too excited about the Internet job boards, they just can't be ignored.   Go on to some of the majors (Careerbuilder, Monster) and post your resume and create a personal profile.  Many of these sites will allow you to create a personal job search that will automatically send you an email highlighting the newest jobs that fit your specialty.  The government is doing a lot of hiring and there is a website specifically for finding government jobs...just Google "USAJobs.gov." You may also visit an actual company website or go and apply in person. 

While your personal goals and your unique personality will ultimately determine the perfect job for you, never forget that it is your professional (and personal) abilities and liabilities that will determine your performance.  Highlight your strongest abilities to the greatest extent possible and while you'll never be perfect, there are probably some liabilities you can improve upon.  You've heard it said that finding a job is a full time job.  But let me add this, finding the "right" job adds to the process.  This will not happen overnight but when it does happen, you will be glad you searched and took the extra time to do so. You need to spend the time and energy in order to better assure yourself, and your next employer, the best outcome. It is always more beneficial to find a position where you can fit in and find personal contentment.  If you enjoy what you do, you'll never "work" another day in your life!  Consider that when selecting your new position and good luck on your job hunt. 

One more thing - never give up - it will happen for you.