Now that we’ve discussed how high unemployment rates and overpopulation correlate, it’s time for the second portion of the blog: finding solutions to these high unemployment rates. While searching for a job can be frustrating, there are many options and resources available to help you find employment opportunities in your city.
1. Craigslist
Let’s be honest: craigslist doesn’t have the best reputation. More people seem to use craigslist as a way to find “missed connections” (borderline stalking 101), pick up free furniture, or (ironically) vent about how difficult and frustrating it is to be unemployed and looking for a job. However, craigslist is also a great resource for finding jobs in major cities. As discussed in the previous blog, unemployment rates are highest in urban cities. Most major cities, including Denver, San Diego, Boston, New York, and Dallas have a craigslist page. When you’re on your cities homepage, look to the right of the page. There is a column labeled “jobs” with dozens of links leading to jobs available in specific fields. All you have to do is click a link to an area you’re interested in (writing, graphic design, hospitality, etc.) and you will be lead to another page with job postings in that field, in your city. It’s that easy!
2. Attend a Job Fair
Many major cities offer annual or bi-annual job fairs. A job fair is exactly what it sounds like: companies in the area that are hiring set up a booth in a large event space and include information about their company, the job(s) they’re hiring for, and have representatives from the company at the booth to discuss job opportunities in the company. What’s really cool about a job fair is that you can treat each booth like an interview. Since there are representatives from the companies at the job fair, it is important to bring copies of your resume, dress professionally, and leave a great first impression. It is not uncommon for employers to do short “on-the-spot” interviews, so research some of the companies you’re interested in working for prior to attending the fair so you have questions prepared for the reps.
3. Request “Information Interviews”
Information interviews are not utilized as often as they should be. An information interview is set up when an individual simply wants to learn more about the company. Common questions individuals are looking to have answered in an information interview include questions about the company’s values, what kind of work the company does, who the company’s clients are, what kind of experience someone needs to be considered for a job in the company, and what the pay rate for new hires is. Information interviews are not intrusive or an annoyance. In fact, many employers find information interviews to be a great first impression. It shows that you are eager, willing to learn, hard working, and determined. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone to snag the job you want!
As you can see, there are a number of ways to lower unemployment in your area and find a job for yourself. We understand that being unemployed is frustrating and stressful. However, we also know that the perfect job for you is out there — you just have to dig a little to find it! Don’t be afraid to take a part-time job that may be below your standards while you’re hunting for a full-time job that you’re qualified for. It may seem demeaning, but it shows employers that you’re not a quitter!
So get to craigslist or find a job fair today! Your perfect job is right around the corner!
Have you been unemployed for a number of months? Need help finding a job fair in your city? Tell us about your experience with unemployment and how overpopulation has effected your job search. Leave a comment below!