November marked the nation’s biggest monthly job loss since 1974, and worse may be ahead, said Kelli B. Grant in SmartMoney. “December and January are historically the heaviest months for layoffs.” If you’re already among the ranks of the unemployed, “it’s time to pull out all the stops.” Enlist friends, family, and former colleagues to give you a heads up on job openings. Expand your search geographically, and “don’t be too picky about accepting part-time, consulting, or freelance work.” Such jobs will lessen the financial blow and may eventually lead to a full-time position.
Even if your self-esteem’s in the gutter, try to convey confidence when you meet with recruiters or potential employers, said Sarah E. Needleman in The Wall Street Journal. Thank them for the meeting, but don’t go overboard. You’ll only sound desperate. Don’t volunteer to take a pay cut from your last job: That implies that you’ll just be biding time until a better offer comes along. But temper your own expectations about what may be offered. “Keep your requests for concessions—like working only out of a particular office or during certain hours—to a minimum.” You can make demands later, after the job market improves.
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