Struggling to Find a Job?
4 Ways to Continue Your Job Search
As more workers are competing for fewer jobs in this economy, recent college graduates are finding it increasingly difficult to land the right position, let alone the job of their dreams. Only 20% of college students surveyed who applied for a job have one, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). This economy is tough, but are grads getting to be too picky in their job search? Many may be holding on to the hope of receiving an offer of employment for the perfect job. Others just hope to earn a gig that will pay the bills.
Either way, the statistics don’t look promising if you’re a new grad. But, don’t give up on your job search and let weeks or even months creep by. A gap in employment can be obvious on your résumé, leaving employers wondering what you’ve been doing with your time and wondering if you’re a good fit after all. So, here are four ways to use your time wisely while you hunt for a job.
1. Volunteer. Non-profit organizations almost always need free skilled labor for a variety of projects like maintenance, bookkeeping, and marketing. Check out the organizations in your community to see if you can offer your talents while you hone your skills and look for a job. Even though you won’t be paid, the experience can be invaluable. Plus, as a volunteer, you typically have freedom to create your own flexible schedule and take on projects of your choosing. That means you’ll still have time to focus on your job search and attend interviews as needed.
2. Intern. An internship can provide the perfect opportunity for you to showcase your talents to potential employers and build valuable professional relationships. While some companies have paid internship programs, you can also offer your talents free of charge if you’re interested in working at a company without such a program. A post-college internship gives you the chance to apply your knowledge to real-world business problems. Plus, employers can see what you could provide for their business and how you fit in with their company, potentially leading to a job offer. You’ll also be able to figure out if you like working in that field or at that company.
3. Take on Temporary Assignments. Staffing agencies can place you in a variety of positions at different companies, giving you the opportunity to try out various jobs and potential employers. Temporary assignments give you the flexibility of short-term work, providing you with experience and an income while you search out the job you want. So, visit your local Express office today to see what types of jobs you can land today.
4. Accept the Imperfect. Sometimes the best way to use your time between employment is to accept a less-than-perfect job to simply work. It may not be the job your heart desires, but it can help you establish your employment history, build rapport with other employers, and provide you with valuable experience. Showing a steady work history is important because employers don’t want to waste their resources on someone who’s not going to stay with them after investing precious time and money into hiring and training. As best-selling author Patrick Lencioni says, the “shift away from needing a perfect job might just bring about a new appreciation for the simpler gift that is work.”
Volunteering, interning, working temporary assignments, and accepting an imperfect job may not be the answer you want for your job search struggles. However, each will provide you with experience, opportunities to network with potential employers, and the chance to build your résumé. So, instead of letting your time slip by, use your time wisely now so you won’t hurt your chances of landing your dream job when the opportunity comes your way.
Helpful Job Search Tips
Workplace Safety: It’s Elementary!
Simple Tips to Stay Safe on the Job
When you hear that it’s National Safety Month, your first thought might be about safe driving tips and safety practices at home. But, have you thought about how you can affect safety in the workplace? Whether or not you realize it, workplace safety is an important and fundamental part of your job.
In elementary school you were probably taught the basics of safety, but can you remember them? The same basic safety ideas still apply today, so start National Safety Month off right by practicing these tips from grade school. Then, you’ll be able to use them year-round to help keep you and your co-workers safe while on the job.
Pay Attention. A big lesson in grade school was learning how to follow directions. In the workforce, paying attention is an important safety concept. If instructions are posted, containers are labeled, and procedures are documented, make sure to pay attention to each and follow the rules carefully. Those rules exist to keep you safe, so don’t ignore them. Whether you work in an office or on a construction site, disregarding safety warnings can put you at risk.
Follow the Leader. If you’re not sure of the basic safety guidelines for your job, ask your supervisor. If you’re unsure how to perform a task safely, you supervisor can tell you or show you the correct way or know who to contact to complete the task. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or to take the time to look up the proper safety procedure. It’s always a good idea to follow the leader!
Know When to Tattle. If you see a safety hazard or observe someone performing their job duties haphazardly, make sure to talk with your supervisor about it. Let him or her know that you’re concerned for your co-worker’s safety, as well as the safety of the rest of your workforce. Accidents can be avoided when you take the proper precautions, so don’t be bashful. Speak up when you feel there is a safety risk.
Follow the basic rules of paying close attention to the tasks at hand, following your supervisor’s lead, and speaking up when you see unsafe practices on the job to ensure a safe work environment. As the saying goes, “It’s better to be safe than sorry.”
Balancing Your Summer Work/Life
10 Reasons You Can’t Afford Not to
Take a Vacation
Many workers are debating whether or not to take a vacation this year. 
Some fear losing their jobs while others are jumping at the chance to use their personal time off to get away from the stresses of work. Experts say that taking a vacation can be beneficial – both to your work and your life. If you’re still debating on whether or not to take some time off from work this summer, check out our 10 reasons you can’t afford not to take a vacation.
- More sleep
- Decreased stress levels
- Boost in energy
- Improved outlook
- Bolstered confidence
- Better mental health
- Increased productivity
- Professional and personal growth
- Strengthened relationships
- Greater physical health
Whether you can plan an extensive, two-week vacation or just an extended weekend, you deserve the positive, rejuvenating benefits of a little time away from work this summer. So, start planning your vacation today. What’s your reason not to?
Job Genius is a publication of Express Services, Inc. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Copyright 2009. All Rights Reserved.