What to Do During a Recession

For many, a recession is a new experience. Others may simply have weathered past storms by remaining employed with the same company during times when the rest of the market was in turmoil. This year may be different for everyone. If you haven’t had a strategy for getting work in the past, it is probably high time to develop one. If you have previously relied on a strategy that is no longer working, then it is time to look more closely at your relationship with work and how you are going to get it. Here are some ideas for changing gears:

Modify your strategies. If it isn’t working, then it is time to change. Stop using cliche resumes and chasing want ads. Dig deeper to find companies’ needs and present solutions that fit. Listen more, whine less.

Understand probabilities. If you are using online job boards you are one of possibly 1,000 candidates applying for any given posting. How competitive are you really likely to be? The likelihood of being seen by way of an introduction to a company is greater than fighting the competition in an online database.

Increase your exposure. Talk to people who are working. Volunteer. Teach. Find an audience that values what you have to offer.

Diversify. Explore how your skills can transfer to other roles than what you are currently pursuing. Stop chasing titles. Look for the elements of jobs that you are able to do, and explore options you hadn’t previously considered.

Keep your job. Have a plan before you leap into this market without a net. Re-evaluate how you can leverage your position to learn more, or produce more visible results in order to build your value as you look beyond the present.

Take a job! Now, I am not suggesting you take any job. Don’t go crazy. I simply mean you might do well taking a lesser job to stay in your field, but it must include a strategy of how to gain ground while the market improves. Position yourself now so you will be in line for better roles later.

Know it is a temporary condition! The economy will improve, but waiting to act until that time comes could prove to be detrimental to your family. Do something. This too shall pass.

If you are a survivor of times like these, please share examples of how a “Plan C” job has fit into your longer term goals. Or, if you are currently exploring options, share how you are viewing alternative or ancillary roles.