Job Search Tips for Difficult Economic Times

Here are some tips for immigrant jobseekers from our partner Upwardly Global, written with today’s difficult economic environment in mind. For each point, we offer links to other resources that provide additional information and advice.

Research emerging industries and locations: Look for occupations related to your current profession, where there is growth and focus on transferable skills. Learn more about fastest growing occupations at Career One Stop Top Occupation List and on the sites listed in our Job Search and Career Planning pages.

Consider volunteering and internships: Most U.S. employers like to see that you have U.S. work experience. As competition gets tougher, it is important to have an updated resume with recent U.S. experience, and volunteering and internship opportunities are good way to start. Even if the work is not paid, you can put the experience on your resume and give a reference from that position that can speak to the quality of your work. And who knows, volunteer and internships may lead to a full time position. For a list of volunteer opportunities in your area, visit Idealist, Volunteer Match or register as an Upwardly Global jobseeker to participate in their new Career Bridge Program.

Be open to relocation: Jobseekers often flock to New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Chicago to find jobs, but they might be headed in the wrong direction. In the current economic circumstances, jobseekers must re-evaluate their job search strategies and consider other cities in the U.S. Madison, Washington and Boston are just a few of the best cities to find jobs in 2009 according to Forbes Magazine.

Keep developing your skills and knowledge: In this economy, companies will want to hire people who require less training because it means less additional expense for them. Therefore, keep your skills current and stay abreast of industry developments so you are an attractive candidate. Attending industry workshops, taking academic courses, joining ethnic professional associations, and participating in online trainings are just few ideas to keep your skills updated. Learn more about training and certificate programs offered in your profession. You can also search for vocational education programs by state and profession at Vocational Schools Database.

Use informational interviews: An informational interview is a meeting in which a job seeker asks for advice rather than employment. Use the interview to gather information on the industry in your field of interest, learn what skills are most in demand, find employment leads, learn who is in charge of hiring, and expand your professional network. Read this helpful article about informational interviews from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Create an online profile and network digitally: The U.S. job market is very dynamic and it is increasingly common for employers to conduct online searches of a candidate's profile before an interview to learn more about his/her background. LinkedIn, a professional-networking site that has 32 million members, allow you to digitally showcase your skills and experience, and build an online community.

Thanks to Upwardly Global for sharing their job search tips. Their Job Search Program for Immigrant Professionals offers career development and professional skills assistance to immigrant professionals who are looking to restart their careers in the U.S. Learn more about Upwardly Global.