Finding Employment

Finding Employment

Finding a job can be a quite daunting task, especially if the local, or even global, economy is in a recession. Frightening accounts in the news state massive unemployment rates and dark prospects for graduates. In actuality, the situation may be even worse, since unemployment rates exclude from calculation those who are studying, working part-time, outside productive age range, and especially important, those who have given up all hope of getting work. Thus, for econometricians, the unemployed are defined as people without permanent employment who are actively seeking employment.

In the Western world, as well as other parts of the planet, the traditional path to securing employment is to first acquire qualifications or skills, through education and experience. Then, one looks for work according to how qualified one is. One niche in the marketplace, so to speak, is easily picked up in one CV (curriculum vitae) or resume, as well as the cover letter and references.

Today, many individuals turn to the Internet unlike the help wanted sections of newspaper ads. Interestingly, statisticians report low rates of success on electronic boards. Nonetheless, studies differ, so one never knows for sure. Most human resource professionals would advise to turn to one's social networks, friends and acquaintances can often point one in the right direction.

Being fired and/or prolonged joblessness may lead to feelings of sadness and despair. Image: Copyright © Elena.