Big Unemployment Numbers Spell Trouble For Your Job Search

The unemployment numbers came back late last week and there is only one word to describe them:

Ugly.

According to the data, 626,000 people made initial jobless claims, which was 35,000 more than the previous month. Not only is that an incredible (and depressing) increase, but it also marks a level of jobless claims not seen since 1982.

So what does this mean for your Entry Level job search? It will mean that you have to work harder and do more to get noticed if you want to land an interview and a job.

Downward pressure can be expected in the job market given the number of newly unemployed people looking for work. This means that you will not be competing for jobs with both new graduates and the recently unemployed.

But keep the faith. So long as you are willing to put in the work, you can find a job in any economy. Interviews, if you put in the effort, can always be had. So what can you do to help yourself along? If I had to sum my advice, I would boil it down to these five things:

1. Stand out from the crowd – Make sure you do everything you can before looking for jobs to make yourself appear unique. These can be life experiences, extra curricular activities, or skills that no one else has.
2. Network like crazy – Always be looking to meet and mingle with new people. You never know whose company will be looking for its next young superstar!
3. Prepare a stellar cover letter/resume - When you do find a job (either through networking or a job posting), have the basics of a great application package ready so you can apply quickly with limited effort.
4. Brush up your interview skills – Don’t memorize answers to every interview question you can think of, rather practice responding to questions you might not be ready for. The ability to think on your feet is vital in an interview.
5. Follow Up – When you do get a chance to meet someone for an interview, always follow up with a thank you note.

Now I know that this is making it sound far easier than it really is, but you can do this! If you are willing to put in the time and the effort, jobs can be found. Stay positive and good luck!