Job hunters need to remain positive, sell strengths

ShareThis

Dear Mr. Walberg:I've been unemployed for about six months and although I have a strong work record with positive accomplishments, I'm scared of the economy. Every time you turn on the TV or pick up a newspaper, it's bad news about money and jobs and downsizing. I'm almost afraid to submit a resume to a prospective employer, knowing that they are thinking reduction in workforce, not bringing on someone new. How do you handle job searching in today's economic crises? -- J.W., Memphis, Tenn.Dear J.W.:Remember that bad news sells newspapers and attracts TV viewers. Remember also that if you are unemployed, your unemployment rating is 100 percent, but if you are employed, it drops to 0 percent. It's a matter of perspective and attitude. Yes, we are in a suffering economy, but life goes on; business goes on, and if you have skills and provable accomplishments, you are needed in the workforce. Some companies are downsizing, but most companies will always hire qualified, accomplished, productive workers. They downsize the weak and hire the strong."You can perceive anything in a lot of ways," says Elaine Varelas, managing partner at Keystone Partners, a Boston career management firm. "If you're an older worker, you can see yourself as experienced - or just old."Always look for the positive. "Recognize that it's not a lot of fun to be around someone who's cranky and negative, and people have that choice when they hire," Varelas says.Set up reasonable goals each day, and then reward yourself when you accomplish them. Tell yourself that job hunting is a numbers game. When you get a "no" you're that much closer to a "yes". And you must tell yourself that the "yes" is out there.It may be more difficult to job search in a weak economy, and it may take a little longer, but remember that a weak economy needs strong people to make a comeback. Sell your strengths, your accomplishments, and focus on what you can do for your next employer right now. How can you help strengthen the economy? Bad news may attract TV viewers, but positive attitudes and provable accomplishments get jobs. Keep your news good. Sell your positive self and get closer to that inevitable "yes".E-mail Marvin Walberg at mwalberg(at) bellsouth.net, marvinwalberg.blogspot.com, or PO Box 43056, Birmingham, AL 35243.