Unemployment = New opportunities….

First of all, I know firsthand that unemployment results in a very tough and traumatic time for the people involved. It causes a great deal of hardship for the entire family. Most people think that they will never find jobs as good as the ones they just lost.

In my 20+ years as a Human Resources professional, I have found that the truth is the exact opposite. Chances are, not only will they find something equal or better; they will become happier and will ultimately become even more financially successful than ever before.

Here is my advice for those who may experience a period of unemployment during this current economic downturn:

Look Inward.
Take this time to learn more about the personal traits, motivational drives, needs and attitudes that are uniquely yours. When you determine what your natural skills and talents are, you can better market yourself to a prospective employer and make an informed decision about your next career move.

Stay positive.
Remove any limiting beliefs and negative patterns of thought that inhibit the flow of well being and wealth into your life. While there are many more people seeking work than there are available jobs at the moment, there are jobs out there. According to some recent statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor, there are 2.8 million job openings employers are seeking to fill.

Read the business news every day.
Look for areas of growth where your skills might be needed. Identify companies that are expanding into new areas or launching new products. Be willing to take temporary work for companies that are experiencing sudden growth, or offer to consult for a company that may not be doing so well but where your skills can add demonstrable value. If you can get your foot in the door and show what you can do, it will often lead to a full-time position.

New opportunities open up every day.
You need to be alert for them. Instead of a re-active job search, where you only respond to an ads in the paper, Be Pro-active and take action: Make a target list and start networking. Most jobs (and especially the best ones right now) are still filled before a company even thinks about running an ad.

Think outside the box.
Maybe this is the time in your life to pursue a life-long dream: Finishing your college degree, Pursuing a brand new vocation, starting your very own business, heading up a non-profit... the possibilities are endless.