A Recovering Economy?

Job seekers take heart!

USAToday online (3/21/02) reports that state unemployment claims fell during the week ending March 16. According to the site, falling unemployment claims are one of the indicators of an economy in recovery. And The Columbus Dispatch online reports that in February housing construction reached the highest level in more than three years (3/21/02).

Before you celebrate, though, be aware that more than three million people nationwide continue to seek state unemployment benefits. Some experts also suggest that any economic recovery might be slow.

Still, there are signs of recovery.

If you are a job seeker, now is a great time to make sure all of your ducks are in a row. Research companies you may be interested in--in particular, check out business and financial newspapers and Web sites to see how those companies are doing. Are they planning to expand or hire? Update your resume. Find out what resources might be available to help, including any free seminars sponsored by local colleges or organizations.

If hiring is on the horizon for a company you're interested in, consider calling or writing to ask for an information interview. In such interviews, your goal is to find out what jobs might be available, what duties they may entail, and when applying for them would be appropriate. Take the information you receive--including specific names--and use it to adapt your job application package.

Whatever you do, be prepared to act quickly. As opportunities become available, you may be competing against many others who are also in the job market. Being the first to seek openings may work to your advantage.

For more information, see Unit Seven.